Preparing for a C-Section: Tips from your fav Pelvic Floor Physio
This guide is to help pregnant people prepare for a cesarean section (c-section). It’s not always the desired outcome, and it’s definitely not always planned but being aware of what to expect can truly make such a difference in one’s experience. This guide will cover preparing for a c-section, what to expect around the surgery, helpful suggestions, and priorities for recovery in the first few days post-op.
Considering the C-Section Before Hand
When we think of c-sections, we often imagine chaotic emergency situations from movies. While that can occur, unplanned c-sections can happen at any stage of labor. Sometimes, labor may not progress for various reasons, and you, your partner, and your medical provider may need to calmly decide on the best course of action. That's why I advise clients to spend time before their due date considering all possible interventions and birth methods that might arise. This includes options like forceps, episiotomies, c-sections, epidurals, and ECVs. Understanding the risks and benefits of each option, along with your preferences and your provider's insights, is crucial in making informed choices. Preparing in advance can ease the stress of making these important decisions during labor and can also lead to a more positive birth experience, as you will feel involved in the decision-making process.
In preparation for your planned or hypothetical surgery you can request;
Epidural or spinal block instead of general anesthesia (if medically feasible).
Clear drapes for viewing the birth
Immediate skin-to-skin contact with your baby in the operating room.
Minimal sedatives to stay alert throughout the procedure.
What to Expect During Surgery
Procedure Setup:
The typical anesthesia used is a spinal block, allowing you to stay awake during the procedure.
A urinary catheter will be placed, and your abdominal area will be prepped with antimicrobial agents.
Your partner will be in scrubs and sitting up at the head of the operating table with you.
Delivery Process:
A curtain is placed to separate you from the surgical area.
After delivery, you may briefly see your baby before they are taken for evaluation and skin-to-skin bonding (if requested).
Extra Info:
It is common for the room to feel shockingly cold
A lot of people comment on the sensation of tugging during the operation. It can be discomforting, but it shouldn’t hurt.
Make sure to disclose any concerns if you’re feeling any sensation of pain!
As a result of the operation, hormone fluctuation, and medication it can be common to experience uncontrollable shaking or shivering.
There will be a lot of people in the room which can feel overwhelming. They are organized and all these for a reason.
What to Expect After Surgery
Immediate Recovery:
You will recover in a designated suite where nurses monitor your vital signs, incision site, and pain management.
Pain medications will be administered orally or intravenously as needed.
Post-Op Mobility:
Early movement is encouraged (e.g., sitting up or walking) within hours of surgery to reduce blood clot risks and aid recovery.
Hospital Stay:
Most patients stay for 2–4 days depending on their condition.
Helpful Suggestions
Preparation Tips:
Pack high-waisted pants or recovery garments that won’t irritate your incision site.
Stock up on freezer meals and arrange help for household tasks or childcare during recovery4.
Include items like postpartum briefs, belly bands, and scar creams in your hospital bag for comfort during recovery5.
Take advantage of the nurses! They’re there to help.
Nurses are incredible resources of information. Clients have often asked for help with feeding tips, learning how to swaddle, holding techniques, how to get up from the bed etc.
You can request to have the baby sleep in the room with you or not. You may need the nap and nurses are incredibly responsible!
REST & RELEASE
Rest is a no brainer but you needs to be reminded. No matter the adrenaline, take advantage of having so many helping hands around and take some time to recover.
Gentle breath work to soothe nervous system and relax PF / belly: It is very common for your entire body to be tense after such an experience. From day 1, prioritize regular diaphragmatic breaths with really softening exhales to help your body recovery physically and emotionally. Holding your abdomen and pelvic floor tight only increases pain and restricts blood flow.
Recover from your c-section with FRANK
Frank offers a 12 week progressive c-section recovery program that is intended to start as early as day 1. Check it out and use the code frankrules to get 20% off your purchase,
Priorities in the First Few Days Post-Op
Rest and Healing:
The more you rest, the faster you will heal - especially for that first 7-10 days
Sleeping with all your pregnancy pillows can be very supportive
20 deep breaths daily (can include some kegels but mostly focusing on full relaxation)
Mobilizing Tips:
From day 1 try to move with proper form and stand up straight!
Use your exhale when transitioning through movement to reduce pressure & pain
Belly band / compression wear can improve comfort with walking!
Nutrition & Hydration:
DRINK SO MUCH WATER (and electrolyte water)
Ask your doctor about starting stool softeners asap
Eat nutritious meals rich in fiber to prevent constipation and promote healing.
Pain management:
STAY ON TOP OF YOUR MEDICATION SCHEDULE. This is probably the number 1 most relieving variable when recovering from a c-section.
Please comment below or email frankaboutpelvichealth@gmail.com if you have any questions!
Good luck!
Rachelle Bonneville
PF physio & Founder of Frank Pelvic Health
