https://boards.hellobee.com/ Pregnancy, Baby and Parenting blog, by Hellobee en Sat, 25 Apr 2026 03:22:53 +0000 https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2706997 Tue, 07 Mar 2017 14:40:21 +0000 krispi 2706997@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1. How long ago was it? 18 months</p> <p>2. Was your section planned or unplanned? Unplanned</p> <p>3. What kind of anesthetic is used? Epidural?<br /> My c-section was done with my existing epidural, and they put additional medicine through it. I had already been in an induction/labor for 3 days. Over the course of that time, I had 3 different epidurals and a spinal, because the epidurals kept failing. The 3rd epidural worked as long as it was refilled, and that's the one they used for surgery. They had to top it off several times before I was numb, though. It also started wearing off while they were stitching me up. My experience isn't normal, but having experienced both, I'd choose the spinal if given a choice. It worked the best out of all the options; they're just not meant to last long term for labor.</p> <p>4. What did it feel like when they were doing the procedure?<br /> I didn't feel much of the actual c-section, not a lot of pressure. I did have a bad reaction because of how much anesthesia they had given me. I was mentally aware, but became totally paralyzed. I even lost the ability to talk. But again, my experience isn't typical.</p> <p>5. Did you watch? Did your SO?<br /> No. They held her up over the curtain very briefly as soon as she came out. He saw her but said he couldn't really tell anything because she was so messy. I wasn't able to see her at that point because of the angle of laying under the curtain.</p> <p>6. What direction is the section scar? (Where is it?) Horizontal, just under the hair line</p> <p>7. Who held baby after it came out?<br /> We could hear her crying as they were cleaning her up, then my husband was able to hold her for a bit. I couldn't move, so there was no way I could hold her. He went with her while they rolled her out and did the newborn tests, while I stayed and got stitched up.</p> <p>8. Who cut the cord? The Doctor</p> <p>9. How long after the baby came out did it take for you to be stitched back up again?<br /> It felt like it took a while, maybe 20-30 minutes? I was pretty out of it though.</p> <p>10. When did you get to hold your baby?<br /> Not until much later that day. When I was in the recovery room getting ready to go up to my hospital room, they asked me if I wanted to hold her. Because of all the medication, my arms were still paralyzed. So, they propped her up against the side of the bed and I "held" her in my arms that I couldn't move on my own. My surgery was at 9:30 am, and it wasn't until about 6:00 that night that I could truly hold her to feed her and such. But I had a lot more medicine than most people.</p> <p>11. How long did it take for your milk to come in?<br /> I had a lot of colostrum right away. The full milk took several days, maybe 4. </p> <p>12. What kind of pain medication was given to you afterwards…was it ok for breastfeeding? Did it feel like enough?<br /> I was given Motrin and Hydrocodone. I alternated between them with each dose. I could still breastfeeed. And yes, I felt it was enough. Except for the actual surgery, when the epidural started to wear off, I wasn't in a lot of pain. Only when I moved a certain way.</p> <p>13. How long did it take for you to feel like you could easily get around on your own?<br /> It took at least a week before I could sit and stand without help. Also, baby holding devices (swings, etc.) are all low to the ground. Bending over to put her down and pick her up took a few weeks to be comfortable. When I had her by myself, I put her bouncy seat on the kitchen table or counter, which I know you're not technically supposed to do. But I had trouble with the swing and rock and play being low to the ground.</p> <p>14. What kind of stitches did they use? When did the stitches come out?<br /> I had steri strips. They fell out/off on their own after it was ok to shower.</p> <p>15. How many nights did you have to stay in the hospital after your c-section?<br /> We only stayed 2 nights after birth. But we had been there a total of 5 nights, and the doctors had compassion on us and sent us home a little early. Normal is 3 nights.</p> <p>16. Did your baby room with you your entire stay?<br /> Yes, our hospital didn't have a nursery, so this was the only option. Honestly, we were exhausted from such a long labor and would have loved the opportunity for someone else to watch her for a little while. If we have another child, my husband is insisting we use another hospital that has a nursery for this reason.</p> <p>17. Do you have any ongoing problems from your c-section? No</p> <p>18. How does your section scar feel now?<br /> I rarely think about it. I still have a small area above my scar that has no feeling, but it doesn't really bother me. The biggest issue is really cosmetic: because I'm a bit overweight, my stomach now hangs over my scar and I have a bit of a "shelf", where my stomach was pretty flat before. </p> <p>19. Anything you’d like to add?<br /> I was induced for pre-eclampsia, was in labor for a really long time, and my body is resistant to epidurals, so my experience wasn't normal. Going in, my only birth plan was to have an epidural and not to have a c-section, and neither of those worked out. As much as I wanted to avoid the c-section due to the longer recovery, if we have another child, I will schedule a repeat c-section to avoid the issues I experienced during labor the first time around. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2706977 Tue, 07 Mar 2017 14:20:52 +0000 erinbaderin 2706977@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@ocean81: I just replied to you in the other thread but I'm pretty sure they were both breech the whole time. I never felt any big flip movements and the kicks/movements felt exactly the same with both boys. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2706941 Tue, 07 Mar 2017 13:37:15 +0000 mrskansas 2706941@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1. How long ago was it? 2 years<br /> 2. Was your section planned or unplanned? Unplanned<br /> 3. What kind of anesthetic is used? Epidural? Epidural<br /> 4. What did it feel like when they were doing the procedure? I was a little out of it from the meds + being so terrified but physically I didn't really feel anything.<br /> 5. Did you watch? Did your SO? My husband watched and loved it.<br /> 6. What direction is the section scar? (Where is it?) Horizontal incision - really, really low<br /> 7. Who held baby after it came out? My husband<br /> 8. Who cut the cord? The doctor<br /> 9. How long after the baby came out did it take for you to be stitched back up again? 15-20 minutes?<br /> 10. When did you get to hold your baby? Right after they cleaned her up they handed her to my husband and then he laid her down on my chest.<br /> 11. How long did it take for your milk to come in? 3 days<br /> 12. What kind of pain medication was given to you afterwards…was it ok for breastfeeding? Did it feel like enough? I took Tylenol and was never in pain<br /> 13. How long did it take for you to feel like you could easily get around on your own? I was up walking around the morning after and I was totally fine after 2 days. We started walking about 2 miles a day 4 days post c-section.<br /> 14. What kind of stitches did they use? When did the stitches come out? Dissolving stitches.<br /> 15. How many nights did you have to stay in the hospital after your c-section? 2 nights.<br /> 16. Did your baby room with you your entire stay? Yep<br /> 17. Do you have any ongoing problems from your c-section? Nope<br /> 18. How does your section scar feel now? I don't even know it's there.<br /> 19. Anything you’d like to add? Besides the initial anxiety over the surgery itself, I have no complaints. Recovery was so easy &amp; I'll probably opt for a RCS with my next baby. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2706926 Tue, 07 Mar 2017 13:17:53 +0000 Mrs. Lemon-Lime 2706926@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1. How long ago was it? April 2016/ 10 months ago</p> <p>2. Was your section planned or unplanned? Last minute planned/ scheduled</p> <p>3. What kind of anesthetic is used? Epidural? Epidural</p> <p>4. What did it feel like when they were doing the procedure? For the most part I felt nothing, but there was tugging and pulling feeling and that was uncomfortable but did not hurt. In the very beginning I was a little nauseous, but not too bad and the doctor said it was because I drank water and didn't completely fast.</p> <p>5. Did you watch? Did your SO? No</p> <p>6. What direction is the section scar? (Where is it?) Horizontal, the incision is barely noticeable. I have some raised scarring where the staples were. </p> <p>7. Who held baby after it came out? While in the OR only the hospital staff. DH held him first in the recovery room. While in the OR the staff bundled up the baby and put him next to me so we could take photos.</p> <p>8. Who cut the cord? The doctor, but DH was able to do a ceremonial cut as well.</p> <p>9. How long after the baby came out did it take for you to be stitched back up again? Not sure how long, but I think at least 30 minutes.</p> <p>10. When did you get to hold your baby? Once in the recovery room the nurses took him from DH and gave him to me.</p> <p>11. How long did it take for your milk to come in? Five days</p> <p>12. What kind of pain medication was given to you afterwards…was it ok for breastfeeding? Did it feel like enough? I had a Rx for more powerful drugs, but I was fine with Ibuprofen. I took that as needed for a few days after. Eventhough my doctors said the meds were fine for BFing I didn't want to take them since some does pass through. </p> <p>13. How long did it take for you to feel like you could easily get around on your own? Getting out of and into bed was a challenge, but I felt fine ready to move around once I had feeling back in my legs.</p> <p>14. What kind of stitches did they use? When did the stitches come out? Good question. All I remember is that my doctor removed my staples a week after.</p> <p>15. How many nights did you have to stay in the hospital after your c-section? Four nights</p> <p>16. Did your baby room with you your entire stay? The first night I sent him to the nursery for a few hours because DH went home and the baby kept me awake and I needed sleep. Besides the he camped out with us the entire time.</p> <p>17. Do you have any ongoing problems from your c-section? At this point no. For a few months after my belly area felt numb and like jelly.</p> <p>18. How does your section scar feel now? From the staples there's a bit of scar tissue.</p> <p>19. Anything you’d like to add? After having a really good cesarean experience I may plan for a RCS from the beginning for baby #2. </p> <p>Knowing what I know now I would know to supplement with formula right away, pump an try to stimulate milk flow while in the hospital, stock up on fruit and fiber rich foods for home. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2706875 Tue, 07 Mar 2017 12:05:18 +0000 bubblegum 2706875@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Dandelion:<br /> 1. How long ago was it?<br /> 2014<br /> 2. Was your section planned or unplanned?<br /> unplanned<br /> 3. What kind of anesthetic is used? Epidural?<br /> I had two doses of epidural prior to the c-section so I given another drug throughout the c-section...can't remember the name though. Worked like a charm however<br /> 4. What did it feel like when they were doing the procedure?<br /> Honestly nothing. I was just trying to control my breathing because I was on oxygen.<br /> 5. Did you watch? Did your SO?<br /> I wish I could! He watched some of it.<br /> 6. What direction is the section scar? (Where is it?)<br /> Horizontal, bikini line.<br /> 7. Who held baby after it came out?<br /> DH<br /> 8. Who cut the cord?<br /> Doctor<br /> 9. How long after the baby came out did it take for you to be stitched back up again?<br /> Hmmm probably like 10-15 minutes or so<br /> 10. When did you get to hold your baby?<br /> Once I was back in my room<br /> 11. How long did it take for your milk to come in?<br /> 5 days after I had him<br /> 12. What kind of pain medication was given to you afterwards…was it ok for breastfeeding? Did it feel like enough?<br /> I think just some type of pain reliever like a strong Motrin and a stool assistance. Yes both were great and okay for breastfeeding.<br /> 13. How long did it take for you to feel like you could easily get around on your own?<br /> Easily...like 4-5 days after but I was up and walking the next day.<br /> 14. What kind of stitches did they use? When did the stitches come out?<br /> I honestly don't know the name but I know nothing had to be removed.<br /> 15. How many nights did you have to stay in the hospital after your c-section?<br /> 3 nights<br /> 16. Did your baby room with you your entire stay?<br /> Yes other than when they took him for testing and things like that.<br /> 17. Do you have any ongoing problems from your c-section?<br /> Not at all<br /> 18. How does your section scar feel now?<br /> Now it feels perfectly fine but honestly I feel like it took about a year to feel normal.<br /> 19. Anything you’d like to add?<br /> I am having a repeat c-section next month, so I'll come and update on how that goes. Fingers crossed it's amazing </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2706861 Tue, 07 Mar 2017 11:35:34 +0000 ocean81 2706861@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@erinbaderin: I know this is super old, but was your 2nd breech the entire pregnancy? My 1st was head down until 39 weeks (!!) and then decided to flip the wrong way. So far my 2nd is head down at 28 weeks. I have an RCS scheduled just in case, but was just curious when yours flipped! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2528989 Tue, 19 Apr 2016 16:20:56 +0000 Alba4 2528989@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>This is very helpful. I schedule my c-section next week. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2528816 Tue, 19 Apr 2016 13:36:33 +0000 Raindrop 2528816@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Special note – I had a pretty rare case so please don’t assume this was normal, I even hesitate to write answers to this so please take this with a grain of salt.</p> <p>1. How long ago was it? 15 months ago</p> <p>2. Was your section planned or unplanned? Both. First it was planned because he was breeched, then they were able to flip him by doing the ECV where they physically rotate the baby. Then his heart rate spiked when I had contracts and they really wanted to emergency C-section him and we thought that was the safest option.</p> <p>3. What kind of anesthetic is used? Spinal.</p> <p>4. What did it feel like when they were doing the procedure? Nothing at all really. I know people say they felt tugging but I didn’t feel anything at all.</p> <p>5. Did you watch? Did your SO? No. We heard the cry and then they showed us the baby and that was it.</p> <p>6. What direction is the section scar? (Where is it?) Horizontal. Pretty low, my underwear completely covers it.</p> <p>7. Who held baby after it came out? The OB pulled him out, a nurse carried him over to us to let us look at him completely naked! Then she cleaned him up a bit and let him lie on me while they were stitching me up and then she took him back and swaddle him and gave him to DH who held him the rest of the time.</p> <p>8. Who cut the cord? The OB.</p> <p>9. How long after the baby came out did it take for you to be stitched back up again? Mine took a while because I had some tearing in my uterus. It took about 30 minutes I believe but I wasn’t keeping track it just felt like a long time. They even sent DH back to my room because it was taking a while. I think I’m a special case though.</p> <p> 10. When did you get to hold your baby? Maybe 3 days after the c-section. I had a second surgery due to internal bleeding.</p> <p>11. How long did it take for your milk to come in? I ended up exclusively pumping which I didn’t start till 4 days after the c-section, I wasn’t able to get my supply up till after a month. I was able to exclusively breastfeed after that but just barely, I had a very small freezer stash when I went back to work.</p> <p>12. What kind of pain medication was given to you afterwards…was it ok for breastfeeding? Did it feel like enough? Ibuprofen and something else. I can’t remember the something else but it was pretty strong. It was okay for breastfeeding though.</p> <p>13. How long did it take for you to feel like you could easily get around on your own? Again I am a special case. I couldn’t really walk till about a week later, and that was tough. My legs were balloon with fluids. I probably couldn’t walk without help (cane or walker) for about a month and a half.</p> <p>14. What kind of stitches did they use? Staples which were removed a few days after I was discharged (I had to go back to the hospital) and then steri-strips.</p> <p>15. How many nights did you have to stay in the hospital after your c-section? I stayed a week.</p> <p>16. Did your baby room with you your entire stay? Nope. We sent him to the nursery at night.</p> <p>17. Do you have any ongoing problems from your c-section? Not really. Oh yeah sometimes when I cough or sneeze too hard or in a row, it hurts around my scar but it’s not so bad.</p> <p>18. How does your section scar feel now? I do have half the scar risen … like of like a sideways raindrop. I know fitting! It kind of creeps me out to touch it though.</p> <p>19. Anything you’d like to add? Try to stay positive. Many women have gotten c-sections. I was pretty fearful and bad things did happen to me but now a year plus out, it kind of feels like I’m back to me again. I feel it was totally worth it because the outcome was my son. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2528809 Tue, 19 Apr 2016 13:24:10 +0000 erinbaderin 2528809@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I'll add my experience for the record:</p> <p>1. How long ago was it? One was 5 weeks ago, one in January 2014<br /> 2. Was your section planned or unplanned? Both planned, both were breech<br /> 3. What kind of anesthetic is used? Epidural? Spinals. It was super disconcerting how quickly it kicked in - they basically told me that as soon as it was in I had to swing my legs up in the table before I couldn't feel them anymore.<br /> 4. What did it feel like when they were doing the procedure? It was weird because I could feel pressure in my body, but not any pain. I felt pushing and tugging.<br /> 5. Did you watch? Did your SO? I peeked - I could see the reflection in the operating light.<br /> 6. What direction is the section scar? (Where is it?) Horizontally, below my bikini line.<br /> 7. Who held baby after it came out? They were both put on my chest while they stitched me up, and then once they were almost done my husband took them while they finished and moved me to recovery.<br /> 8. Who cut the cord? The doctor.<br /> 9. How long after the baby came out did it take for you to be stitched back up again? 20-30 minutes.<br /> 10. When did you get to hold your baby? He was put on me immediately, but I don't know if that's really "holding" because I couldn't use my arms. Once I got into recovery I could actually hold them.<br /> 11. How long did it take for your milk to come in? I don't remember with my first son, day 2 with my second.<br /> 12. What kind of pain medication was given to you afterwards…was it ok for breastfeeding? Did it feel like enough? Tylenol, with an option for morphine for the first 24 hours and something else I can't remember (started with a t) after that. I asked for morphine once and the T medicine once in the hospital, but didn't fill my prescriptions once I got home. It was fine for breastfeeding, and it felt like enough as long as I made sure to get it right on time for the first few days. By day 4 I was basically off it both times.<br /> 13. How long did it take for you to feel like you could easily get around on your own? They had me up and walking within 12 hours both times (although the second time I fainted, and went back to bed for another 12 hours before trying again. I think that was caused by the internal bleeding and hemoglobin drop, though, and not directly a result of the surgery)<br /> 14. What kind of stitches did they use? When did the stitches come out? Dissolving stitches.<br /> 15. How many nights did you have to stay in the hospital after your c-section? 1 the first time, 2 the second, because of the blood transfusion.<br /> 16. Did your baby room with you your entire stay? Yes.<br /> 17. Do you have any ongoing problems from your c-section? No.<br /> 18. How does your section scar feel now? Numb. The skin above the scar is tender, almost like a sunburn, which also happened last time.<br /> 19. Anything you’d like to add? Like I mentioned above, my hemoglobin dropped to 60 (should be over 110), which caused me to get an ultrasound, a CT scan, be diagnosed with internal bleeding, and need a blood transfusion. Apparently it's a weird and unusual outcome, though, especially since the section itself was super routine and easy. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2528786 Tue, 19 Apr 2016 12:49:00 +0000 MrsKRB 2528786@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I love this thred! My baby has been sitting breech since 23 weeks (now 33 weeks) so I might be preparing for a c. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2528673 Tue, 19 Apr 2016 10:59:54 +0000 lovehoneybee 2528673@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1. How long ago was it? 4 months</p> <p>2. Was your section planned or unplanned? Planned. She was breech.</p> <p>3. What kind of anesthetic is used? Spinal. It made my blood pressure drop, which made me sick. The nausea combined with being unable to move made me a bit panicky...I was begging them to bring my husband in, and finally said I was going to be sick. I felt much better after I threw up (they were waiting with a bucket).</p> <p>4. What did it feel like when they were doing the procedure? A little bit of tugging.</p> <p> 5. Did you watch? Did your SO? No. I was pretty overwhelmed. DH spent about 90% of the time holding my hand and trying to keep me calm and 10% of the time peeking. He said he could see my intestines...he said he wanted to see because it would (hopefully) be the only time he could see something like that in person, and he was interested.</p> <p>6. What direction is the section scar? (Where is it?) Horizontal and extremely low.</p> <p>7. Who held baby after it came out? The OB pulled her out, a nurse took her to the warmer, and then DH held her and brought her to me.</p> <p>8. Who cut the cord? The OB, and DH trimmed it.</p> <p>9. How long after the baby came out did it take for you to be stitched back up again? It was really fast...maybe 10-15 minutes. She came out at 9:34 and I was in the recovery room by 9:55.</p> <p>10. When did you get to hold your baby? They put her on my chest for a few minutes while they finished stitching me up, and then she was given to me in recovery so I could start trying to nurse while they got my BP back up.</p> <p>11. How long did it take for your milk to come in? Like 36 hours? It was about the same as my son, who was vaginal.</p> <p>12. What kind of pain medication was given to you afterwards…was it ok for breastfeeding? Did it feel like enough? Percocet and Ibuprofen. I had no problem breastfeeding, and I felt like it was enough. I had to stop it sooner than I wanted as it really blocked up my GI tract badly, and made it nearly impossible for me to pass gas or poop without extreme pain.</p> <p>13. How long did it take for you to feel like you could easily get around on your own? I was walking around the next day. DD was born a week before Christmas and I have a preschooler, so I didn't really have the time to lay low. I hosted Christmas Eve dinner for my ILs (fondue, so it was easy). I was moving slowly, but I was moving. I didn't feel comfortable driving for about 3 weeks, though.</p> <p> 14. What kind of stitches did they use? Staples which were removed before I was discharged and then steri-strips.</p> <p> 15. How many nights did you have to stay in the hospital after your c-section? I stayed 3 nights, though my insurance would have covered a 4th. I wish I had stayed the extra night, but it was right before Christmas and I wanted to be home more.</p> <p> 16. Did your baby room with you your entire stay? Except for about 2 hours the first night, yes.</p> <p> 17. Do you have any ongoing problems from your c-section? Nope.</p> <p> 18. How does your section scar feel now? It's a little numb when I touch it, but otherwise I don't notice it at all.</p> <p> 19. Anything you’d like to add? The anticipation of it was the worst, but overall I had a very positive experience, minus the pain when trying to poop. And the gas pains in the hospital were pretty terrible. Also, I had to drink a shot of this stuff before the surgery to protect my esophagus in case I puked, and it tasted terrible. She told me it tasted like salty grapes, so I was at least prepared, but it was like super sour salty grapes, lol. </p> <p>If you're reading this now, stay on top of your pain meds. I got behind a few times, and it was terrible when the pain crept in. Like...major hormone crash coupled with sudden pain had me sobbing and my husband panicking. They gave me a bottle of ibuprofen but I had to call the nurse to request the Percocet when it was time. I felt like a junkie having to call, but I really needed it for a while. And getting up and trying to walk as soon as possible is super important, just don't push yourself too hard and overdo it. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2528632 Tue, 19 Apr 2016 10:30:42 +0000 Mrs. Pickles 2528632@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@lovehoneybee: @Mrs. Lemon-Lime: I see this thread is older but if you want any other input let me know , I've had two, one RCS one emergency :) </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2528327 Tue, 19 Apr 2016 06:33:34 +0000 Mrs. Lemon-Lime 2528327@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Super helpful thread! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2378867 Sat, 05 Dec 2015 10:18:26 +0000 lovehoneybee 2378867@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Dandelion: Thanks for bumping this for me! I'll definitely sit down and read through tonight! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2378770 Sat, 05 Dec 2015 03:28:13 +0000 Kimberlybee 2378770@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Dandelion: Hi, this brings back so many bittersweet emotions. I will be having another C section in a few weeks for DD# 2! Never thought I would be a mommy of 2 (due to IF struggles) so excited! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2378764 Sat, 05 Dec 2015 03:16:19 +0000 Dandelion 2378764@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Bumping! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2194010 Fri, 29 May 2015 23:21:24 +0000 Dandelion 2194010@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Nightingale: thanks for sharing!</p> <p>A spinal makes you numb from your boobs to your toes. It starts kicking in right away. My legs were leaning to the side as I was going numb, and even when my legs were flat and I could see them straight, it felt like they were still leaning!</p> <p>The spinal also made my face itch as it was wearing off. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2194005 Fri, 29 May 2015 23:09:16 +0000 Nightingale 2194005@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>My first post! Hello everyone! I'm having my second c-section 2 weeks from today. My first experience was traumatic to say the least, but I thought it would still be nice to share because I wish I could have read a story like mine before my daughter's birth just so I could have been more mentally prepared.<br /> 1. How long ago was it? 15 months ago<br /> 2. Was your section planned or unplanned? It became an inevitability about a week before it happened, but technically it was still an emergency due to fetal distress and pre-eclampsia. I was 28 weeks 2 days.<br /> 3. What kind of anesthetic is used? Epidural? Yes epidural. Not sure on what a spinal feels like but with the epidural I could feel pressure but not pain. Mine made my face itch as it wore off as some other posters mentioned.<br /> 4. What did it feel like when they were doing the procedure? I had no clue they had started cutting until DD was a second from being born. The doctor was talking on his Bluetooth, so I assumed he wasn't also doing surgery. Apparently not... I did not feel any tugging or pulling during the procedure but baby was only 1 lb. 10 oz. at birth, so there probably wasn't much force needed to get her out.<br /> 5. Did you watch? Did your SO? I wish I could have seen but I wasn't asked. The anesthesiologist told DH if he wanted to see her come out to look at a certain time, and he did. He took some neat/gory photos of the birth.<br /> 6. What direction is the section scar? (Where is it?) Horizontal and extremely low.<br /> 7. Who held baby after it came out? No one. She was immediately rushed away to be assessed and then up to the NICU. They brought her by in a cart for about 5 seconds, but I didn't really get a look at her. My husband accompanied her to the NICU, but it was several hours before I got to see her by having my entire bed wheeled into her room. Not fun.<br /> 8. Who cut the cord? Doctor.<br /> 9. How long after the baby came out did it take for you to be stitched back up again? 15 minutes maybe?<br /> 10. When did you get to hold your baby? 3 days after her birth. DD was on brain bleed precautions, so she couldn't be held for the first three days of life. It was terrible. Holding her for the first time certainly was not the happy moment I had anticipated. At the time, I did not feel bonded with her at all.<br /> 11. How long did it take for your milk to come in? 2 days I think.<br /> 12. What kind of pain medication was given to you afterwards…was it ok for breastfeeding? Did it feel like enough? I had sweet wonderful morphine for about the first 12 hours and then Motrin and Tylenol after that. All fine for breastfeeding. Morphine was great. I didn't feel the Motrin and Tylenol was enough, but I was up and walking around by necessity so I was probably overdoing it those first few days in order to get up to the NICU to be with my baby.<br /> 13. How long did it take for you to feel like you could easily get around on your own? Easily? Maybe 2 weeks? But I was walking on my own the day I had the c-section. Truthfully, I was in pain when walking for at least the first 6 weeks.<br /> 14. What kind of stitches did they use? When did the stitches come out? I got to find out I was getting staples when I heard the staple gun going in the operating room. I did not like them. They were removed after 7 days (not painful) and replaced with steri-strips.<br /> 15. How many nights did you have to stay in the hospital after your c-section? 3 nights. Standard at my hospital with a c-section.<br /> 16. Did your baby room with you your entire stay? Stayed in NICU a total of 78 days.<br /> 17. Do you have any ongoing problems from your c-section? Sort of. I received a classical incision on my uterus because it was the safest method for getting the baby out. What that means is that I have a much higher risk of uterine rupture than women with a transverse incision, so I have to have an early c-section for all subsequent pregnancies to make sure I'm never actually in labor. My surgery is scheduled for 36 weeks 4 days.<br /> 18. How does your section scar feel now? It actually does bother me rather frequently- especially the more pregnant I get. Sometimes it stings and burns. I think it might be kind of keloided. I'm hoping not to have staples this time. I think that was not a good choice for my skin type.<br /> 19. Anything you’d like to add? I know my story sounds scary, but the good news is our little girl is absolutely perfect in every way despite her traumatic start in life! There were so many things that could have gone wrong that didn't. I'm so thankful to be still pregnant with this baby and hoping for a much different c-section experience this time around. On a different note, I had my daughter at a teaching hospital and because my surgery was so "interesting" there were close to 20 people in the operating room. Also, I was completely naked from the belly down while people were milling about the room. That definitely made me uncomfortable. Something to consider when choosing your hospital. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/5#post-2191373 Thu, 28 May 2015 07:43:45 +0000 tinyperson 2191373@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@paigeface: like @Dandelion: said, it was the anticipation that was the worst of it. I had a great recovery and barely needed pain meds afterwards. Good luck to you! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/4#post-2191369 Thu, 28 May 2015 07:40:06 +0000 paigeface 2191369@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@valentinemommy @dandelion thanks ladies! I am so nervous. I would have done the same thing @valentinemommy and keep telling them I have high anxiety. The more and more I think about it the more I give myself anxiety. I will just be randomly sitting somewhere and start overthinking! I'm 3 months away and don't want to keep worrying every single day. All of your stories helped a lot though! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/4#post-2190211 Wed, 27 May 2015 06:17:55 +0000 MrsBananaGrabber 2190211@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Thank you to everyone who has posted! I'll be having a c-section soon, and reading your stories (for the most) has helped a lot :) </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/4#post-2189414 Tue, 26 May 2015 12:06:47 +0000 Dandelion 2189414@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@paigeface: Honestly, waiting and worrying about the procedure was worse than the c section itself. There's so much going on and nurses and doctors talking, while your SO is next to you...it all just kinda happens and it's fine. The excitement of meeting your baby kinda overpowers the anxiety. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/4#post-2189408 Tue, 26 May 2015 12:02:56 +0000 ValentineMommy 2189408@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@paigeface: I have extreme anxiety and I went in telling them that over and over. I literally told every nurse and the anesthesiologist about my anxiety, as well as reminded my doc (as if he could have forgotten lol). I was told that they COULD have given me something if it was really bad, but that depending on when it was administered, the baby would have it in his system (which I didn't want). So, the anesthesiologist basically kept checking in with me through out the process asking me if I was ok and to let him know if/when I felt that I really needed anything. I didn't and it ended up being fine! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/4#post-2189322 Tue, 26 May 2015 11:11:40 +0000 paigeface 2189322@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I read each and every one of your stories! Thank you all for posting. I believe I am going to have to have a c-section (due to a cyst) and I am pretty terrified. I have high anxiety so I'm already starting to get anxious and it's not until September. Is there any way to calm to anxiety on delivery day to avoid being totally out of it? </p> <p>Thanks! :happy: </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/4#post-2188134 Sun, 24 May 2015 13:31:55 +0000 NurseDMB 2188134@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1. How long ago was it? Almost 2 years ago<br /> 2. Was your section planned or unplanned? Planned -- DS was breech the entire time<br /> 3. What kind of anesthetic is used? Epidural? Spinal<br /> 4. What did it feel like when they were doing the procedure? Just felt pressure/tugging<br /> 5. Did you watch? Did your SO? No, there was a curtain over me so I couldn't watch. DH didn't watch the actual surgery but was there with me behind the curtain.<br /> 6. What direction is the section scar? (Where is it?). Horizontal, very low on my bikini line<br /> 7. Who held baby after it came out? DH held him first, then took him over to me.<br /> 8. Who cut the cord? I honestly can't remember! I'm not sure if DH or the doctor did<br /> 9. How long after the baby came out did it take for you to be stitched back up again? Probably up to an hour - at least it felt that way<br /> 10. When did you get to hold your baby? I semi held him for 2 minutes right after DH did, but then I didn't actually hold him until after I was stitched up.<br /> 11. How long did it take for your milk to come in? Not sure how to answer this -- I breastfed in the hospital (colostrum) and then when we got home, I switched to formula for numerous reasons. My boobs never hurt and I didn't leak so I don't even think my milk ever came in :(<br /> 12. What kind of pain medication was given to you afterwards…was it ok for breastfeeding? Did it feel like enough? Percocet and ibuprofen -- it was enough as long as I kept taking it every few hours.<br /> 13. How long did it take for you to feel like you could easily get around on your own? Not sure, maybe 1-2 weeks but I still had pain. After 3 weeks I felt more "normal". I should add that I was up and showering on my own by day 2, but I still had a lot of pain. But I made sure to push myself and walk around when I could<br /> 14. What kind of stitches did they use? When did the stitches come out? Dissolvable - can't remember when they fell out<br /> 15. How many nights did you have to stay in the hospital after your c-section? 3 nights<br /> 16. Did your baby room with you your entire stay? Yes-- there is no nursery at the hospital I gave birth at, so he was with me the entire time<br /> 17. Do you have any ongoing problems from your c-section? No<br /> 18. How does your section scar feel now? Fine - still a little numb<br /> 19. Anything you’d like to add? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/4#post-2188025 Sun, 24 May 2015 08:44:40 +0000 dc yoga bee 2188025@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Bump </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/4#post-2121034 Wed, 25 Mar 2015 09:30:36 +0000 Mamasig 2121034@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I never answered for my repeat c section.</p> <p> 1. How long ago was it? 10.5 months<br /> 2. Was your section planned or unplanned? Planned, but it got bumped up unexpectedly because of low fluid.<br /> 3. What kind of anesthetic is used? Epidural? Epidural, I guess? I don't know.<br /> 4. What did it feel like when they were doing the procedure? First there was nothing. Then some discomfort. Then it hurt. Not to scare anyone, but it HURT. I did not have that feeling the 1st time. I think it was so much pressure that it felt like pain, major pain. I had to really concentrate and focus on ignoring the pain so that I could be aware and present when DS2 was born.<br /> 5. Did you watch? Did your SO? Yes, we both watched. I noticed a mirror by my head and they moved it so that I could see when they were pulling DS2 out. It was amazing. I couldn't see the gory stuff but just him coming out.<br /> 6. What direction is the section scar? (Where is it?) Horizontal by my bikini line<br /> 7. Who held baby after it came out? Doctor than nurse than DH, I think? DH got him quickly.<br /> 8. Who cut the cord? Doctor<br /> 9. How long after the baby came out did it take for you to be stitched back up again? Maybe 20 minutes?<br /> 10. When did you get to hold your baby? After I was stitched up and while we were waiting to get out of the OR. Once I could sit up a bit, he didn't leave my arms.<br /> 11. How long did it take for your milk to come in? 3-4 days, I think.<br /> 12. What kind of pain medication was given to you afterwards…was it ok for breastfeeding? Did it feel like enough? Percocet, I think. It worked.<br /> 13. How long did it take for you to feel like you could easily get around on your own? A few weeks. Recovery was slower than the 1st time.<br /> 14. What kind of stitches did they use? When did the stitches come out? They dissolved and I didn't need to get them taken out.<br /> 15. How many nights did you have to stay in the hospital after your c-section? The max allowed (3 or 4, I don't remember). But it wasn't because of me. DS2 had jaundice and was being monitored.<br /> 16. Did your baby room with you your entire stay? Yes, only left for circumcision.<br /> 17. Do you have any ongoing problems from your c-section? After this one, every so often I feel a weird feeling on the inside by the incision site. Not pain exactly, but maybe like a tugging. Also maybe a little sore on the inside when its cold and damp outside. Like how people who break a bone sometimes feel. I just noticed that recently.<br /> 18. How does your section scar feel now? I realize my c section scars don't heal pretty. It's slightly raised and dark.<br /> 19. Anything you’d like to add? C sections aren't bad like many make it out to be. Also, each recovery may be different! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/4#post-2120976 Wed, 25 Mar 2015 08:54:39 +0000 LBee 2120976@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I just realized I never answered this thread. I loved it when I was planning for my c-section, so I want to pay my dues! </p> <p>1. How long ago was it?<br /> 7.5 months ago. </p> <p>2. Was your section planned or unplanned?<br /> Planned. Baby was breeched and I had bleeding problems.</p> <p>3. What kind of anesthetic is used? Epidural?<br /> No idea - I felt nothing, so I'm assuming it was the good stuff. I think an epidural, though. </p> <p>4. What did it feel like when they were doing the procedure?<br /> I felt absolutely nothing. I was mentally prepared for tugging / pulling and was so surprised when I felt NOTHING. </p> <p>5. Did you watch? Did your SO?<br /> I did not watch, but my husband did. He got oddly fascinated with it. He said it was the first time he saw my doctor as a SURGEON and not just the lady who measured my belly and chatted with me about my pregnancy woes every few weeks. </p> <p>6. What direction is the section scar? (Where is it?)<br /> Horizontal. Just below my panty line. </p> <p>7. Who held baby after it came out?<br /> I think my doctor, but maybe the nurse? I'm not sure. I was pretty overwhelmed. My husband brought him over to me pretty quick. </p> <p>8. Who cut the cord?<br /> My doctor. We were not interested in cutting it, so I don't know if that was an option. </p> <p>9. How long after the baby came out did it take for you to be stitched back up again?<br /> I'm not 100% sure. I thought it was like 5 minutes max, but based on the filming my husband did of the baby in the recovery room with him, I think it was probably more like 15 minutes. It felt like a blink of the eye, honestly. </p> <p>10. When did you get to hold your baby?<br /> I sort-of held him when my husband brought him over for the first picture and me to see him, but I really held him in recovery. It was all really quick and I did not feel like I was separated from him very long. </p> <p>11. How long did it take for your milk to come in?<br /> I think 2 to 3 days. </p> <p>12. What kind of pain medication was given to you afterwards…was it ok for breastfeeding? Did it feel like enough?<br /> Morphine then percocet + tylenol / advil. It was breastfeeding safe and definitely felt like enough. </p> <p>13. How long did it take for you to feel like you could easily get around on your own?<br /> I was up the next morning after my c-section (hospital requirement), but I felt like I could "easily" move around probably the day I was discharged. </p> <p>14. What kind of stitches did they use? When did the stitches come out?<br /> Dissolvable. </p> <p>15. How many nights did you have to stay in the hospital after your c-section?<br /> Ugh, it's kind of foggy, but I think 3 nights? </p> <p>16. Did your baby room with you your entire stay?<br /> Yes. </p> <p>17. Do you have any ongoing problems from your c-section?<br /> Nope! </p> <p>18. How does your section scar feel now?<br /> If my son stands on it, it'll sometimes feel slightly tender, but otherwise it feels normal. It took about 3 months for it to not feel like it was "numb."</p> <p>19. Anything you’d like to add?<br /> WALK! As soon as they will let you, walk the halls. That made all the difference for me. Also try to stay in front of the pain - especially on discharge day. I somehow ended up going pain medicine free on discharge day and our video of him arriving home is not pretty. I may or may not have been crying because of the pain of getting in the car / bumps and turns of driving. We probably won't share that magical video with him when he's older :silly: . </p> <p>Good luck! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/4#post-2099820 Sun, 08 Mar 2015 17:16:49 +0000 littleveesmommy 2099820@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1. How long ago was it? 3 years ago<br /> 2. Was your section planned or unplanned? Unplanned<br /> 3. What kind of anesthetic is used? Epidural? Spinal.<br /> 4. What did it feel like when they were doing the procedure? I felt some tugging and pressure when they were reaching in to take DD out. It was a very strange feeling.<br /> 5. Did you watch? Did your SO? Nope.<br /> 6. What direction is the section scar? (Where is it?) Above my pubic bone below my panty line. It's horizontal.<br /> 7. Who held baby after it came out? Nurse the DH, then me.<br /> 8. Who cut the cord? The doc did because DH has a fear of blood. He didn't cut the cord for DD2 during a VBAC either.<br /> 9. How long after the baby came out did it take for you to be stitched back up again? Ten or fifteen minutes maybe.<br /> 10. When did you get to hold your baby? It took a few minutes. The nurses did her Apgar stats and cleaned her up before they passed her to DH swaddled who then brought her to me. I never got to do skin to skin with her until we were my recovery room almost 4 hours later.<br /> 11. How long did it take for your milk to come in? Three days<br /> 12. What kind of pain medication was given to you afterwards…was it ok for breastfeeding? Did it feel like enough? Tylenol and Percocet. Once discharged I took Tylenol for two more days then stopped but realized quickly that I wasn't ready to stop. The pain came back with a vengeance and I went back on Tylenol at around 1 week for another week before I dared to stop again.<br /> 13. How long did it take for you to feel like you could easily get around on your own? I was able to move around pretty ok around 4-5 days.<br /> 14. What kind of stitches did they use? When did the stitches come out? I had staples and they were removed before I was discharged.<br /> 15. How many nights did you have to stay in the hospital after your c-section? My hospital required 3 nights stay with c-sections and j stayed the entire time.<br /> 16. Did your baby room with you your entire stay? She stayed with me the entire time.<br /> 17. Do you have any ongoing problems from your c-section? A small area of my upper right thigh never regained full feeling. For a couple months I couldn't feel anything at all when I ran my nails across that area. Now it still feels a bit numb when I do.<br /> 18. How does your section scar feel now? It's mostly flat but two little sections are raised and red, like a keloid.<br /> 19. Anything you’d like to add? I had a c-section with DD1 because she was stuck. I had planned on an unmedicated birth and got all the way through labor and pushed for 3 hours before my midwife and the OB on call said we needed a c-section. DD was posterior with brow out orientation so, literally, the biggest part of her head was trying to come out. They couldn't even attempt the vacuum. She had a terrible cone head that took over two months to even out. I was upset with myself at the time that I didn't try harder and still feel some guilt but it's gotten better over time. It was what was needed to bring her safely into this world. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section/page/4#post-2099612 Sun, 08 Mar 2015 10:16:54 +0000 oliviaoblivia 2099612@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Dandelion: I'm glad you didn't have her again!<br /> Mine made fun of me when I asked for toilet paper. Taking the first PP BM to find that the bathroom wasn't stocked was a low point in my recovery. Five hours later I still didn't have TP and pulled the plug on our stay. </p>