My entire pregnancy was normal without any complications. My glucose levels were good, BP was under control and baby position was good. My OBGYN did not see a reason I would need a C-Section. However I had to be induced as I was not going into labor, which failed and I ended up needing a C-Section. Even though I knew in my mind that I could need a C-Section, I really did not prepare for that scenario. These are 5 tips I wish I knew to be better prepared for a C-Section.
- Underwear/Adult Diapers: Right after you roll back from the OR into your post partum room the nurses will kindly clean you up and place a pad as you will probably still be under the effect of spinal anesthesia. After that they give you large pads/adult diapers which you will need to change into subsequently. These are okay but not the most comfortable options. I later found very comfortable adult diapers on amazon which I wish I took with me to the hospital. Alternatively you could use pads, however make sure you buy larger sized high rise underwear to avoid pressure on the C-section scan. A low rise underwear may put pressure on the incision which you definitely want to avoid.
- Pillows: Usually after a C-Section you are admitted for 2 nights/3 days. Getting good sleep is anyway challenging between trying to feed that baby and post operative pain. When you finally do try to fall asleep, the extremely uncomfortable hospital pillows don’t help the situation. Take at least 2 comfortable pillows with you. Also factor in the person who will be staying with you, they would appreciate comfortable pillows.
- Clothing, slippers: While you are at the hospital you are provided with a hospital gown which is quite flimsy, but tolerable. You can take some nursing gowns with you if you wish. Something I definitely recommend taking is a comfortable outfit for the drive back from the hospital. Please don’t take your pre pregnancy clothes with you. Take something that will be stretch or loose. For example a nice dress that is airy. Or super stretchy leggings and a loose t shirt. Also my hospital did not provide me with slippers to walk around the room and to go to the bathroom. I recommend bringing comfortable slip on sandals which are preferably water proof so you can shower with them.
- Take your breast pump: It it better to take the breast pump that you intend to use at home with you. That way you can start using it right away as the hospital pumps are quite bulky and cumbersome. Also you can chat with the lactation consultant if you have any questions etc regarding the pump. I also recommend buying silicone suction flanges as they are much more comfortable that the plastic flanges that most breast pumps come with.
- Medications: We all want to avoid using medications as much as possible. I wanted to avoid medications as well. So the first two days I refused the opiates my doctor gave me and tried to manage with Tylenol and ibuprofen. I was miserable. Finally two doctors and my nurse had to convince me to take them. I was able to function and actually take care of my baby much better once I took them. I did not need to take them for more than a week and continued ibuprofen and Tylenol there after for a few more weeks. Also do get on the stool softener train very early. I know people who have suffered anal fissures etc due to postpartum constipation. Please consult with your doctor before taking any medication, I am just sharing my experience.
