5 Critical Components of a Healthy, Happy C-Section

Having a cesarean section is major abdominal surgery.  Because of this there are potential complications, risks and emotional elements that can impact the experience.  To better help you get the most enjoyment out of your c-section and ensure your overall health and happiness, here are 5 items to consider.

Create a Birth PlanYou have lots of choices when having a c-section.  From things like deciding the delivery date all the way down to what music to play in the operating room.  There is a lot to think about. 

Start out by understanding what happens in those few hours prior to surgery as well as the hours following. Get to know your hospital and their procedures, if there is something that you would like to have done, such as a having your spouse cut the cord or perhaps bond with baby immediately after delivery, check with your doctor and hospital staff and document it in a birth plan. 

If you your wishes until the last minute, they are not likely to be fulfilled.  Hospital staff and doctors generally have a routine, but they also get busy and forget your wishes.  If you document your needs in a well thought out plan, it makes it easier for everyone and you’ll be happier with the results. 

Stick to a Healthy DietDon't let ‘eating for two’ become your motto.  Focus on quality not quantity. You want to eat healthy for both of you. 

Your baby doesn't require lots of food; she does require good, nutritious food.  Limit starches and sweets and get plenty of fruits and vegetables.  Don't be afraid of mild exercise.  Get out and walk or do yoga exercises.  If you get hungry keep healthy snacks on hand.   Your diet plays a big part on the ease of delivery and can help avoid things like gestational diabetes and high blood pressure issues.

Understand the RisksIf you can understand the risks and complications of having a c-section you will be better equipped to make informed decisions. I say this because your doctor will often assume the role of making decisions for you, decisions about things like types of anesthesia, types of incisions, catheters, how soon you can bond with your baby, inducing labor or even if you should have a c-section or not.

If you are well informed about what the risks and complications in relation to your pregnancy and your wishes are, you can better equip yourself to make your own decisions and not let others make them for you. 

Yes, your doctor is your best resource for helping you decide what is best for you but you should also understand when perhaps your doctor may be making a choice out of convenience for him or some other outside factor.

Keep up Discussions with Your DoctorKeep the lines of communication open with your doctor.  Don't be afraid to ask about his/her delivery experience.   Find out how she handles certain procedures and always ask what you can expect next. If you don't like something ask about alternatives.  If you still don't like the responses you get, check into getting a second opinion. 

Recovery PlanningThink ahead about your recovery, particularly your recovery at home.  Having a c-section is major surgery so you won't be feeling much like running up and down stairs, doing lots of housework, cooking and cleaning. 

This is a time when you want to make it as easy on yourself as possible.   Make prior plans to have older children cared for, have meals pre-planned and prepare an area of your home that is equipped with everything you will need so movement around your home is limited.  Prepare a schedule for you and baby to get use to …and stick to it.  This will not only make things easier, you will also heal much faster and feel a whole lot better.