C-sections

Darchild77 · Mar 13, 2004

I had a C-section, and I work L+D. I know smilingblue eyes could probably give you more advice, but here is some of mine. Number 1- it is a lot better that you already know and are planning for a C-sec. When you are admitted they will go over the surgery with you, anestesia will come and talk to you about getting a spinal(I assume you will be awake for the procedure) and what to expect. The nurses will talk to you about pain meds and anti nausea meds you will recieve. They will also tell you about your incsion(doc preference of sutures or staples)and go over TCH and possibly you will recieve IS. You will have a foley, an IV, and a belly shave during admission. Some hospitals use compression boots or Teds also. Lab will come to draw a T+S and other labs in case they would need to transfuse you(possibly done at the clinic the day before). Your incision will most likely be across your lower abd/pubic region-but possibly vertical if your doc decides. During surgery you will feel a lot of tugging and pulling as your baby comes out. They will briefly show you your baby and then bring it to a warmer to assess it. After surgery you will most likely go to a PAR to recover for about an hour(unless they do sections right on the OB floor). When back in your room you will be able to breast feed your baby very soon if all is well. Some babies are natural breastfeeders, some are not. Just remember that it is like dancing and both of you need to learn your role, sometimes frustrating but it will get better. Also your nurses are there to help you with that. The day of your surgery you will remain in bed, catheter in place, there will be a dressing over your stomach. Your 1st Post-op day you will have sharp pain at first when move in bed, and you will have to rely on arms and legs rather than stomach muscles. Your foley will also be removed. The first day the nurses will help you get out of bed-you may feel light headed so don't look at the floor. You may also feel as though you are pulling your stitches-use your hand to support your abd underneath the incision(your stitches aren't pulling apart, its just such a tender area that it feels this way). Use your pain pump before moving or getting up- this helps. The more you move and ambulate, the faster you heal and the better you will feel. The 3rd day you will be able to shower- and usually you will feel like a million bucks after you do!! The bandage comes off, and when it fully heals it will be smaller than it is now(I can't barely see mine). Most docs don't want you to exersise for about 4 weeks after surgery, but ask your doc. Don't lift more that 10 pounds for about 4 weeks either. Most docs want you to obstain from sex, douching, or deep tub baths until they see you at your 4-6 week appointment(also ask your doc). By the time you go home you will be getting around much better, and the pain usually lessens to a dull soreness(also your doc will prescribe pain meds for you at home). I think you will be surprised at how fast you heal!! Keep in mind everyone's experience is different, and just ask your nurses if you have questions. I hope I answered your questions, Tell me if I left something out. Good Luck and early congrats on your 1st baby!!!:)

edib1 · Mar 13, 2004

Thank You So Much. I Feel So Much Better Now I Really Appreciate All Your Info. What Could Be Better Than An L&d Nurse Too. I9ts Funny Cause I Feel Like A Big Baby, Here I Am An Er Nurse An I Just Feel So Helpless And Scared, Dont You Go Telling Anyone Now. I Think That I Just Think About All Of The Complications That Can Occur As Opposed To The Benefits. I Really Do Want To Thank You, I Feel At Ease Now. You Are Wonderful

Darchild77 · Mar 13, 2004

why, flattery will get you everywhere:rotfl: You are very welcome!! At one time our hospital was featured on 20/20 for being one of the leading C-sec hospitals!!Gee, what a thing to be proud about eh!

I haven't seen very many complications with our surgicals. They will most likely do a hgb in the am of your 1st postop day- if its low they may give packed red cells- no biggy. If you have any more Q's you can post or PM me I am happy to help!!! And I am very glad that you feel better, BTW I faint when my blood is drawn if its any consolation!!:rotfl:

edib1 · Mar 15, 2004

:chuckle :chuckle :chuckle :chuckle :chuckle

YOU ARE KILLING ME. THATS PRETTY FUNNY. HAHAHAHA

I APPRECIATE ALL YOUR ADVICE , AND I WILL TAKE YOU UP ON THE CHANCE TO ASK QUESTIONS. THANK YOU. SURGERY ON THE 28TH. SO I WILL HAVE SOME LAST MINUTE QUESTIONS TO EASE MY MIND BEFORE I GO IN. THANKS