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Pre-operative Information for Planned Caesarean Birth
Understanding a Planned Caesarean Birth
A planned caesarean birth, also known as an elective C-section, is a scheduled surgical procedure to deliver a baby. It is typically planned due to medical reasons such as breech position, placental issues, or previous C-section deliveries. Understanding the need and the process of a caesarean section is essential for expecting mothers.
Pre-operative Assessments
Before your planned caesarean, you will attend a pre-operative assessment. This often includes blood tests, a general health check, and a discussion with an anaesthetist. The assessments ensure you are in optimal health for the procedure and allow the medical team to plan accordingly.
Medication and Fasting Instructions
It's important to follow specific instructions regarding medications and fasting. Usually, you will be asked not to eat or drink anything for about 6-8 hours before surgery to reduce the risk of aspiration during the procedure. Your healthcare provider will give detailed instructions tailored to your condition.
Hospital Admission and Preparation
You will typically be admitted to the hospital on the day of the elective caesarean or the evening before. The healthcare team will prepare you by providing a gown, setting up an IV line, and possibly shaving the surgical area. You will also meet the surgical team and have a final discussion about the procedure.
What to Expect During the Procedure
During the caesarean section, you will receive an anaesthetic, usually a spinal or epidural, which numbs the lower part of your body but allows you to stay awake. The procedure generally takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Your partner or a support person may be allowed in the operating room to provide comfort and support.
Post-operative Care and Recovery
After the surgery, you will be moved to a recovery area where you and your baby will be monitored closely. Pain management and post-operative care will be provided as needed. Typically, you will stay in the hospital for 2-4 days so the healthcare team can ensure both you and your baby are healthy before discharge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a planned Caesarean birth?
A planned Caesarean birth is a surgical procedure scheduled in advance to deliver a baby through an incision in the mother's abdomen and uterus.
Why might a planned Caesarean be necessary?
A planned Caesarean may be necessary for various reasons, such as the baby being in a breech position, placenta previa, multiple pregnancies, previous Caesarean deliveries, or maternal medical conditions.
How do I prepare for a planned Caesarean birth?
Preparation includes attending preoperative appointments, fasting before the surgery as instructed, arranging for post-operative support at home, and packing a hospital bag with essential items.
What should I bring to the hospital?
Bring personal identification, your maternity notes, comfortable clothing, toiletries, baby clothes, nappies, and any prescribed medications.
Can my birth partner be present during the Caesarean?
Yes, in most cases, your birth partner can be present during the Caesarean to provide support and witness the birth of your baby.
What type of anaesthesia is used for a planned Caesarean?
The most common anaesthesia is a regional block, such as a spinal block or epidural, which numbs the lower part of your body while you remain awake.
How long does the Caesarean procedure take?
The surgery typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, but this can vary depending on individual circumstances.
What can I expect immediately after the Caesarean?
You will be monitored in the recovery area for a few hours, where your vital signs and incision will be checked. Your baby will also be assessed and can often stay with you in the recovery area.
When can I start breastfeeding after a Caesarean?
You can usually start breastfeeding as soon as you feel comfortable in the recovery area. Hospital staff can assist you with positioning and latching.
How long will I stay in the hospital after a Caesarean?
The typical hospital stay is around 2 to 4 days, but this can vary based on your recovery and any complications.
What is the recovery process like after a Caesarean?
Recovery involves managing pain, caring for the incision site, avoiding heavy lifting, and gradually increasing activity. Full recovery can take about 6 weeks.
What pain relief will I have after the Caesarean?
You will receive pain relief medications, which may include oral painkillers or stronger medications, depending on your pain levels.
Are there risks associated with a planned Caesarean?
As with any surgery, there are risks including infection, blood clots, bleeding, and reactions to anaesthesia. Discuss potential risks with your healthcare provider.
Can I have skin-to-skin contact with my baby after a Caesarean?
Yes, many hospitals encourage immediate or early skin-to-skin contact to promote bonding and breastfeeding.
When can I start driving after a Caesarean?
You should avoid driving until you feel comfortable and free from pain while sitting and wearing a seatbelt, usually around 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery. Always check with your insurance policy and healthcare provider.
Useful Links
Useful links from: Planned caesarean section
- North Bristol NHS Trust - Planned Caesarean Section Official page of North Bristol NHS Trust providing comprehensive information on planned caesarean sections, including preparation, procedure, and recovery.
- NHS - Caesarean section NHS page offering detailed information on caesarean sections, including reasons for the procedure, risks and benefits, and recovery tips.
- Tommy's - Planning a C-section Tommy's charity website providing guidance on planning a caesarean section, including what to expect, how to prepare, and post-surgery recovery.
- BabyCentre UK - Planned Caesarean Birth BabyCentre UK's guide on planned caesarean births, offering advice on preparation, the procedure itself, and recovery.
Useful links from: Having a planned caesarean section
- NHS - Caesarean section (C-section) Information about caesarean sections, reasons for needing one, the procedure, recovery, and the risks involved, provided by the NHS.
- NHS - St Michael's Hospital Official page of St Michael's Hospital, part of the University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, providing information about the services and specialties available at the hospital.
- Tommy's - C-section Detailed information from Tommy’s, a UK pregnancy charity, about planning and preparing for a caesarean section, including what to expect before, during, and after the surgery.
- NCT - Planning a caesarean section Advice and information from the National Childbirth Trust (NCT), a UK charity for parents, about planning and experiencing a caesarean section.
Useful links from: Your Caesarean birth
- NHS - Caesarean section Comprehensive information by the NHS on what a caesarean section (C-section) is, when it's needed, what happens during the procedure, risks involved, and recovery tips.
- Tommy's - Having a Caesarean section Tommy's, a UK-based charity, provides detailed information on the reasons for having a C-section, types of caesareans, and how to prepare and recover from the surgery.
- NCT - Caesarean Section The National Childbirth Trust (NCT) offers guidance and support on caesarean sections, including what to expect, recovery advice, and personal stories from other mothers.
- Birthrights - Your Rights in Childbirth Birthrights is a UK charity dedicated to protecting human rights in childbirth. This page offers resources on your legal rights during childbirth, including caesarean sections.
Useful links from: Spinal Anaesthesia for Caesarean Section
- NHS - Caesarean section Comprehensive information from the NHS on caesarean sections, including when they're needed, the procedure, and recovery. It also covers types of anaesthesia used during the operation including spinal anaesthesia.
- Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (RCOG) Information from the RCOG about caesarean sections, including details on surgical procedures and anaesthesia options like spinal anaesthesia.
- Tommy's - C-Section: Advice & Information Tommy's provides detailed advice and information on caesarean sections, including preparation, the procedure, and different anaesthesia methods such as spinal anaesthesia.
- NHS - Pain Relief in Labour NHS page discussing various pain relief options during labour, including spinal anaesthesia, which is often used during caesarean sections.
Useful links from: Anaesthetic procedure for elective caesarean section (C section)
- NHS - Caesarean section This NHS page provides comprehensive information on caesarean sections, including why they are performed, what happens during the procedure, and what to expect afterwards.
- Tommy's - C-section (Caesarean section) Tommy's charity offers detailed information about caesarean sections, covering elective and emergency procedures, recovery tips, and potential risks.
- NCT - Choosing a caesarean birth The National Childbirth Trust (NCT) provides guidance on making the decision to have a caesarean birth, including the benefits and potential drawbacks.
- Birthrights - Caesarean Sections Birthrights is a UK charity dedicated to human rights in childbirth, offering information on the legal rights concerning caesarean sections, including patient choice and consent.
Useful links from: Having a Caesarean Section
- NHS - Caesarean Section Comprehensive information provided by the NHS about caesarean sections, including reasons for the procedure, risks, recovery, and what to expect.
- Tommy's - Caesarean Section: What to Expect Tommy's charity offers detailed guidance on what to expect when you have a caesarean section, including tips on preparation, the procedure itself, and recovery.
- NCT - Caesarean Section Information The National Childbirth Trust (NCT) provides an array of resources related to caesarean sections, covering topics from decision making to recovery and emotional wellbeing.
- Birth Trauma Association - Caesarean Section The Birth Trauma Association offers support and information for parents dealing with the emotional and physical aspects of caesarean sections.
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- Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
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- You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on Captions, click settings .
- To turn off Captions, click settings again.