This is a great page to bookmark if you are expecting a caesaeran Birth. As always, arm yourself with as much information as possible before giving birth. Even if you are expecting a normal birth, there is no harm in learning a little bit more. You never know what may come.
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Anyway, in this modern age, a Caesarean Birth with spinal block is actually a breeze!
Caesarean birth and the road to recovery
by MayoClinic.com
Final steps in the operating room
From start to finish, most Caesarean sections take approximately 30 to 45 minutes, with the baby being born in the first five to 10 minutes. Because regional anesthesia blocks pain, but not the perception of motion, you’ll likely feel some tugging as the baby is pulled out. However, nothing in the procedure should hurt.
Recovery in the hospital: What to expect
The first few hours after surgery can be the most painful as the anesthetic wears off, but newer anesthetic techniques have greatly diminished this initial discomfort. A variety of pain-control methods can be used after the operation. Often, an intravenous pump is used, which lets you adjust the dose of an effective pain reliever according to your need. Later, oral medications are usually adequate. You’ll feel fatigue as your body’s energy is directed toward healing. Nausea is fairly common if you had a general anesthesia for the operation.
To note : Don’t hesitate to tell your nurses/doctor if you need more painkiller. I was given the button to adjust them myself. Do not worry about the medicine affecting your baby. Both your ob-gyn and paediatrician are already aware and prescribe painkiller that is safe.
Breast-feeding
Sometimes discomfort with the incision and IV lines can make breast-feeding awkward. With some help, however, you should be able to start breast-feeding right away.
Your nurses will help you get started with breast-feeding soon after your delivery. They will teach you how to position your body and support your baby so that you’re comfortable. Continuing to take medication for your post-surgical pain shouldn’t interfere with breast-feeding. In fact, trying to breast-feed without having your pain under control makes the whole process more difficult. If you’re in pain, you can’t relax — and your baby needs you to be calm and low-key when he or she is learning to breast-feed. If you have special issues with breast-feeding, ask to see a lactation consultant, who is usually a nurse with extensive experience helping new moms and babies get off to a good start breast-feeding.
Surf over to MayoClinic as they have a lot of useful information.
Originally posted 2006-03-27 11:10:29.
