For many expectant parents, the idea of a caesarean section (commonly known as a C-section delivery) can feel daunting. Whether it’s planned from the outset or becomes necessary during labour, a C-section is a significant medical procedure, and understanding what to expect can help alleviate anxiety and promote a more positive birth experience.
This article is designed to guide you through all the essential aspects of preparing for a C-section delivery—both physically and emotionally—so you can approach the birth of your baby with confidence, calm, and clarity.
Understanding the C-Section
A caesarean section is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions made in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. In India, roughly 1 in 4 births are by caesarean section, and they can be either planned (elective) or unplanned (emergency). This number can be much higher in metro cities due to various reasons which we will discuss in another piece.
Elective C-Section: This is scheduled in advance and often recommended due to medical reasons such as placenta previa, breech presentation, multiple births, or a history of previous C-sections.
Emergency C-Section: This occurs when complications arise during labour and a vaginal birth is no longer deemed safe for the baby or the mother.
While it’s still surgery, advancements in obstetrics have made C-sections safer than ever. With the right preparation, you can recover well and focus on what really matters: bonding with your baby.
Preparing Emotionally and Mentally
Many parents-to-be feel anxious about a C-section, especially if it wasn’t their original birth plan. Preparing emotionally is just as important as being physically ready.
1. Understand Your Birth Preferences
It’s okay to grieve the loss of a planned vaginal birth if you’re now looking at a C-section. Acknowledge your emotions without judgement. Speak openly with your care provider about your birth preferences. Even with a surgical birth, you can still incorporate elements like delayed cord clamping, skin-to-skin contact, or having music in the theatre if allowed.
2. Ask Questions
Knowledge can replace fear with confidence. Don’t hesitate to ask your consultant or midwife what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. Knowing things like who will be in the room, what type of anaesthesia will be used, how long the procedure takes, and what immediate recovery involves can help you feel more in control.
3. Discuss Your Support System
In most hospitals in the UK, your birth partner is allowed to be with you during a planned C-section delivery. Ensure your partner is informed and prepared to support you emotionally. If they know what to expect, they can be your rock during the birth.
Getting Physically Ready
While a C-section doesn’t involve active pushing, there’s still a lot you can do to prepare your body for the experience and aid in a smoother recovery.
1. Pack Your Hospital Bag Thoughtfully
You’ll likely be in the hospital for 2-4 days post-C-section, so pack accordingly. In addition to the essentials, consider including:
- High-waisted, supportive cotton underwear (avoid anything that presses on the incision)
- Loose nightwear and clothing
- Snacks for after surgery (as you may be hungry once cleared to eat)
- A long phone charging cable (hospital beds are often far from sockets)
- A feeding pillow (it can ease pressure on your tummy while holding the baby)
2. Focus on Nutrition
Good nutrition before surgery can aid healing. Ensure your diet includes iron-rich foods to maintain healthy haemoglobin levels, and eat plenty of fibre to help with digestion. Post-surgery, constipation is a common concern, so hydrating and eating well becomes even more important.
3. Strengthen Core Muscles Gently
You won’t be doing strenuous workouts, but gentle pregnancy-safe movements that engage the core and pelvic floor can improve muscle tone and aid in recovery. Avoid anything that causes strain, and always get clearance from your provider.
What to Expect Before Surgery
If your C-section is planned, you’ll be given a date and instructions by your healthcare team. Here’s a rough idea of what happens:
- Pre-op appointment: A few days before the procedure, you’ll attend a hospital appointment to go through your medical history, check your blood pressure, and possibly undergo blood tests.
- Fasting: You’ll usually be asked not to eat or drink for around six hours before surgery, though guidelines may vary.
- Shaving and Hygiene: You may be advised not to shave your bikini line beforehand, as it can increase the risk of infection. The surgical team will prep the area as needed.
- Anaesthesia: Most C-sections are performed under regional anaesthesia, such as a spinal block or epidural, which numbs the lower half of your body while allowing you to be awake during the birth.
During the Procedure
- C-sections typically last around 45 minutes to an hour, with the actual delivery taking place in the first 10–15 minutes.
- Your partner will likely sit beside you at your head.
- A curtain will be placed at chest height so you won’t see the surgical area.
- You might feel pressure, tugging or pulling sensations, but you should not feel pain.
- Once your baby is delivered, you may be offered a chance for skin-to-skin contact while the doctors finish the procedure.
In some hospitals, a “gentle C-section” option may be available. This approach allows the drape to be lowered so you can witness the birth, and immediate skin-to-skin contact is encouraged where possible.
Recovery in the Hospital
Post-surgery, you’ll be moved to a recovery area where you’ll be monitored closely for the first few hours.
Pain management: You’ll receive medication to manage discomfort. Let your team know if you need more support—there’s no need to be in pain unnecessarily.
First movements: Within about 12–24 hours, the nursing staff will encourage you to sit up and walk gently. Movement helps prevent blood clots and jumpstarts your recovery.
Feeding your baby: Breastfeeding after a C-section is absolutely possible. The hospital team, including lactation consultants or midwives, can help you find comfortable feeding positions.
Recovering at Home
Recovery from a C-section takes time. While everyone heals at their own pace, here are a few general tips:
1. Take It Slow
You’ve had major abdominal surgery, so don’t rush to “bounce back.” Avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby, and resist the urge to do housework or exercise too soon.
2. Mind Your Scar
Keep the incision site clean and dry. Wear loose clothing to avoid friction, and let your doctor know if there’s any redness, discharge, or unusual pain. These could be signs of infection.
3. Accept Help
This is a time to lean on your support network. Whether it’s a partner, family member, friend, or postnatal doula, having help with meals, errands, and baby care can make a big difference.
4. Rest Strategically
Sleep when the baby sleeps may sound like a cliché, but it’s genuinely helpful. Even short naps during the day can help your body heal and improve your mood.
5. Look After Your Mental Health
Postnatal hormones, sleep deprivation, and the demands of surgery recovery can be overwhelming. If you’re feeling low, anxious, or tearful most of the time, reach out to your GP, midwife, or health visitor. Postnatal mental health support is widely available and you’re not alone.
A Word on Future Pregnancies
Many women go on to have healthy vaginal births after a C-section (known as VBAC – Vaginal Birth After Caesarean), while others may choose or require repeat C-sections. Discuss future pregnancy planning with your healthcare provider to understand your options and any recommendations based on your individual situation.
In Conclusion
Preparing for a C-section delivery involves more than just understanding the medical procedure. It’s about feeling equipped physically, mentally, and emotionally for this unique birth experience. Whether planned or unplanned, a caesarean can be a beautiful, calm, and empowering way to bring your baby into the world when you’re supported and well-informed.
This blog is written by Sonali Shivlani Pregnancy & Parenting Consultant | Director, CAPPA India
