Not every woman is lucky enough to have a vaginal birth or a normal delivery. There are times when one needs to plan for a C-section (cesarean section) due to health concerns of the mother and baby. A planned C-section could be a result of some issues like placenta abruption, foetal distress,slabour pains stopping mid-way and many more. If your doctor has already advised a C-section, it is better to discuss certain issues beforehand. Here are a few of them:
1. How much time do I need to rest after the surgery?
A C-section usually calls for a rest period of six weeks. However, in some cases, it might be longer. So ask your doctor how long you might need to be on bed rest after discharge from the hospital. Mothers suffering from obesity, gestational diabetes might need more resting period than those who don t suffer from any such issues.
2. Will I be able to breastfeed?
Generally, you will be able to hold your baby only after two days of your delivery when you recover from the strain of spinal anaesthesia. During that duration, your child might have to depend on formula feed. However, if you are enthusiastic to breastfeed, ask your doctor if it is possible to have a breast crawl or pump breast milk to meet the feeding demands of your baby. Most hospitals agree to this.
3. Do I need to take any special care to avoid abdominal strain?
It is important that you maintain minimal pressure on your abdomen as it takes time for the internal scars to heal. If you are eager to resume exercising or do heavy duty household work, discuss with your doctor when you can start the same. Remember, too much pressure on the abdomen too soon can increase the risk of a hernia after C-section.
4. Will spinal anaesthesia give me back problems in future?
A C-section is usually done by giving spinal anaesthesia. While there are no side effects of the same, but some doctors do warn you that it can lead to back ache in future. My gynaecologist did tell me that I could suffer from the same. However, three years post a C-section I haven t felt even a twinge.
5. What kind of birth control method can I use?
You would be asked to refrain from having sex at least for six weeks after your delivery. After that, your hospital might offer you to go for a Copper-T or other IUCD devices. If you are sceptical about the same, discuss with your doctor about the other methods of birth control that are safe for you.
6. Can I exercise post C-section?
Your doctor would never say no to this. However, it is better to discuss with her what kind of exercise is best suited for you and how you should approach it. There are healthy ways to exercise after a C-section to get rid of pregnancy weight.
7. Will I ever have a flat belly?
This question might sound silly, but before falling prey to the quacks out there who would promise you flat belly with exercises and home remedies, talk to your doctor. Most women gain back their pre-pregnancy posture after a few weeks of delivery. However, it isn t the case with everyone. Body image issues can also trigger postpartum depression. So talk and get counselled, if needed.
8. Will the scar ever fade away?
The straight answer is no. But if you think there is a magic cure anywhere, talk to your doctor and clear your doubts.
9. Can I go for a massage or hot fomentation?
I was advised against this after my C-section. So speak to your doctor before getting any kind of massage.
10. Will my second delivery also be a C-section?
If you are eager to have a second baby, speak to your doctor to know how you can reduce the chances of a second C-section. Vaginal births after C-section (VBAC) is possible, learn from your doctor how you can prepare for one.
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