A planned c-section (caesarean section) - also known as an abdominal birth - can sometimes be unavoidable. There are lots of reasons you might have / need a c-section, we have covered this in greater detail, including the pros and cons of an abdominal birth, in our previous c-section blog. If you are about to have a planned caesarean section or think you might end up having one, it is helpful to know what to expect. That's why we'd like to tell you all about a caesarean section procedure today. What does the preparation look like, how long does a caesarean section take, what exactly happens during it and what happens afterwards?
How does a caesarean section work?
A caesarean section can be divided into three phases: the preparation, the actual operation and the aftercare. Of course, there are also emergency caesarean sections where every minute counts and everything has to happen a little faster.
1. Preparation
As with every operation, you as parents-to-be will first be informed about the operation. Your doctors will inform you about the procedure, the risks and the aftercare. At the end, you must give your consent to the operation. This is followed by a series of preliminary examinations: blood tests, CTGs and/or an ultrasound may be carried out to ensure that everything and everyone is ready. In most cases, a regional anaesthetic (spinal or epidural anaesthesia) is then administered so that you are awake and can see your baby during the caesarean section. In emergencies, however, a general anaesthetic may sometimes be required. You will find out when this is the case during your information session. A catheter will also be placed in your bladder so that your urine can drain during the operation, and because some people experience problems urinating after a caesarean section. This also prevents your bladder from being injured during the procedure. To prevent possible inflammation, your abdominal area will be shaved and disinfected before you go into the operating theatre in your surgical gown. To spare you from seeing exactly what is happening, and to prevent infection, a screen will be placed over your abdomen. Some trusts allow for an “assisted caesarean” where you help extract baby. Or you can often request certain modifications to be made to the room you’ll be in, modified lighting (except for the necessary surgical lighting to see baby), music playing etc. Speak to your midwife or clinician about these if there’s something you’d like to consider. Your partner can normally be present during the procedure and support you during the birth. Of course, there are also emergency caesarean sections where every minute counts and everything has to happen a little faster.
2. The Operation
Now it's time to get down to business! A horizontal eight to fifteen centimetre incision is then made above your pubic hairline. In very rare cases, a vertical incision may also be necessary. Now the layers of the abdominal wall and the uterus are gradually opened and gently pushed apart. Your baby is lifted out (it is possible that the upper edge of the uterus will be pushed slightly by hand so don’t be alarmed if you can feel this) and examined immediately. If all is well then they are shown to you and usually placed directly on your chest. Your placenta will also be delivered in this way. Your uterus and the other layers of tissue are then gradually sutured shut again. This step usually takes longer than the opening and can feel like a long time.
A couple of things no one tells you:
-
You might shake! There are lots of reasons that you might start shivering: the anesthesia, the change in temperature between operating rooms and the main maternity ward, adrenaline, and more! It’s usually totally normal but speak to your midwife or medical staff if you’re concerned.
-
It often feels a bit strange when they’re extracting baby. Your doctor will often have to press on your bump and maybe even do some tugging and pulling to get baby out safely. While the anesthesia prevents this from hurting, you will likely still feel it happening which can feel a bit strange.
3. Aftercare
Once the operation is complete, you will first be monitored in the recovery room to make sure that everything is okay and will stay that way. If necessary, you will also be given painkillers. And don't worry, many hospitals encourage direct skin-to-skin contact as soon as possible between you and your baby to support breast/chestfeeding and bonding.
You will usually stay in hospital for a few days for observation but this does depend on your trust and various factors such as blood loss and your ability to fulfil basic functions like urination. Here and afterwards, your surgical scar will be checked regularly and you will be given tips on scar care.
After you are discharged, you will be visited by your midwife and health visitor. You must take it easy and can simply enjoy the time with your little miracle. The aim is for your body to regenerate from the operation and for the recovery to begin slowly but surely. Milk production and milk flow should also be stimulated and encouraged during this time if you are planning to feed baby this way. As you can see, you have a lot ‘to do’ during these weeks but in a gentle way, with rest, patience and lots of cuddles.
How long does a planned c-section take?
There is no general answer to this question, as every procedure involves a certain routine, but can of course take different lengths of time depending on the case or complication.
As a guideline, however, we can say that the phase from anaesthesia to the procedure takes around 20 minutes. The actual procedure also takes around 20 minutes and the doctor then needs at least another 15 minutes to stitch the uterus and abdominal wall back together. So if everything goes according to plan, the birth can be completed in about an hour - but it can vary.
Afterwards, you will be monitored and during this time - if everything is okay - you can cuddle with your baby and start the bonding and breast/chestfeeding process (if this is your plan). How long you stay in the hospital afterwards depends entirely on the individual.
What does postnatal recovery look like after a planned c-section?
Postnatal care naturally also includes postnatal recovery. And this is somewhat different after a caesarean section than after a vaginal birth.
What you should know before you start your postnatal exercises: After a planned c-section, it will take longer for bleeding (lochia) to stop. However, it will also be weaker. It will also usually take eight to twelve days for your abdominal stitches to heal (externally) quite well. Absolute rest is recommended during this time. Avoid straining the abdominal muscles and make sure you make very gentle movements. Nerves and tissue also need quite a while (a good six weeks) to heal completely.
What you can do in this first phase are light pelvic floor exercises. These also help with recovery, but do not put any strain on the abdominal suture. It is best to talk to your midwife about this. Only when your scar has healed well after around eight to ten weeks or even twelve weeks after the caesarean section should you start the actual targeted postnatal exercises.
However, the following still applies during these up to twelve weeks of rest and recovery: wear as little as possible - not even your baby. Especially in the early stages, it is better to let your partner take over the babywearing - even in a baby carrier.
Planned c-section: Doing what’s right for you
A planned c-section is definitely something that many people - even without medical reasons - are now considering more frequently. However, it doesn't just have advantages. And that's exactly why we wanted to provide you with all the information you need about caesarean sections. Perhaps there were a few things that nobody has told you yet and our aim here is simply to educate you.
Incidentally, if you quickly feel like having sex again after a (planned) caesarean section, you should use proper contraception. You ideally shouldn't get pregnant again for twelve months after a c-section because your scar has to heal completely. There is a risk that the scar could tear if it is stretched again too soon. We will also be shedding more light on the topic of ‘sex after a caesarean section’ here on the blog shortly. Because there is also a lot to know and consider. So, stay tuned!
Safety Tips:
- Proper Positioning: Ensure your baby is seated correctly, with their legs in an "M" position and their head should be close enough to kiss.
- Checking for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your carrier for any signs of damage.
- Ensuring Adequate Support: Make sure the carrier provides proper support for your baby’s head and neck.
Exploring Nature with a Baby Carrier
Ideal Spots for a Nature Walk with Baby
- Parks and Gardens: Great for leisurely walks and picnics.
- Nature Trails and Forests: Perfect for more adventurous outings.
- Beaches and Lakesides: Wonderful for enjoying the water and sand, with the right carrier.
Activity Ideas
- Hiking: Enjoy a scenic hike with a hiking baby carrier that offers support and storage.
- Bird Watching: Use your carrier to keep your baby close while you explore and observe wildlife.
- Picnics: A carrier can free up your hands, making it easier to carry picnic supplies.
Advantages of Using Strollers for Nature Adventures
While baby carriers are fantastic for mobility and closeness, depending on the adventure of choice you might want to be a stroller along too.
There are a LOT of baby stroller options on the market. So we understand how confusing it can be to choose the one that’s right for your family. Not only are there a variety of brands, but a variety of strollers that serve different purposes.
There are a few types of strollers on the market:
- Full-sized stroller: This is typically the stroller parents thing of buying for all its versatility.
- Lightweight or umbrella stroller:These compact strollers are perfect for on-the-go adventures.
- Jogging stroller: Designed for parents who want to combine fitness with outdoor adventures.
- Double stroller: Designed for parents with multiple kids, especially twins.
- Car seat carrier: These strollers connect to a specific car seat. We don't typically recommend these as they can be unsafe for baby and uncomfortable for parents who are pushing.
Learn more about the types of strollers and which one would be best for you.
Benefits of Bringing a Stroller
- Storage Space for Gear: Ample room for carrying all your essentials like a diaper bag, beach toys and more.
- Shade and Weather Protection: Built-in canopies to shield your baby from the sun when they are lounging.
- Options: If you have more than one kid, you can stroll with one and carry the other. Or, if you’re getting warm or your little one is getting fussy, you can switch up their position from stroller to carrier or vice versa.
Safety Tips for Strollers
- Ensure your stroller is in good working condition. Make sure buckles are still buckling and that there are no rips or holes that could compromise your baby’s safety.
- Use sunshades or bug nets to protect your little one’s skin.
- Securing the baby properly: always buckle up your baby for safety even if you think they are old enough to go without the buckle.