When it comes to caesareans, a little preparation can go a long way. Lauren Brenton, midwife, mum of four and the powerhouse behind One Mama Midwife, knows this firsthand. She’s been through it all herself and has supported countless families along the way. In this article, she’s sharing her top tips to help you feel ready, calm and a little more in control during your caesarean journey.
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Whether your caesarean is planned or unexpected, being prepared and knowing what to expect can make all the difference in your experience. As a midwife and caesarean mum of four, I’ve been there and I’ve worked with hundreds of families navigating caesarean births, and I’m here to share some practical tips to help you feel more confident and supported.
Before your Caesarean
If you know you’ll be having a caesarean, taking some steps beforehand can ease your mind and body for the process.
Educate Yourself
Understanding what happens during a caesarean, what your options are, what happens to the baby and you after your caesarean and how to heal after your caesarean can help ease your fears or anxieties. Attend a One Mama Midwife Caesarean Class to help you feel as prepared as you possibly can! Once you know all of your options then you can advocate for the ones that suit you the best.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Whether your caesarean is planned or not, staying calm is key. Practice deep breathing or mindfulness exercises to help you feel grounded on the day. Other people like to distract themselves with music or a podcast. Whatever helps you feel calm.
Organise Support
Line up support from your partner, family, or friends to help during your recovery. It is recommended to rest and not lift anything heavier than your baby for the first 6 weeks after birth. Having an extra set of hands for meals, household tasks, helping you get to appointments and baby care will be invaluable.
What to Pack for a Caesarean
Packing for a caesarean differs slightly from a vaginal birth, so here are my top essentials to include:
- Comfortable, High-Waisted Underwear: Look for soft, high-waisted underwear that won’t rub against your incision. I’d also opt for black!!
- Loose Clothing: Pack loose, breathable outfits that are easy to slip on and off, like a nightie, maternity dresses or oversized tops with leggings.
- Postpartum Pads: Even after a caesarean, you’ll experience postpartum bleeding for up to 6 weeks, so stock up on comfortable, absorbent pads or partum panties.
- Abdominal Support: Using recovery shorts from TheRY Group can help to support your abdominal muscles and promote healing. Making it easier for you to move around the room and care for your baby.
- Snacks and Hydration: Recovery can leave you feeling hungry and thirsty, so pack easy-to-eat snacks and a reusable water bottle with a straw. We all know that hospital food isn’t the best, so packing your favourite snacks can make all the difference.
- Entertainment: Books, magazines, or a tablet can help pass the time while you recover in the hospital.
- Essential Toiletries: Don’t forget items like lip balm, soap, moisturiser, a toothbrush (and toothpaste), shampoo and conditioner and dry shampoo to freshen up. Other people like to bring makeup, hair dryer and/or straightener to help them feel nicer – however these aren’t essential items.
- Handheld fan: After a caesarean you can get very hot and sweaty from the medication wearing off. Having a handheld fan can make you feel more comfortable before you’re able to get up and have a shower.
- Long chargers: Often the charger spots aren’t close to the bed, having a long charger will mean you can use your phone when you aren’t able to move around the room then.
After Birth
Recovering from a caesarean requires patience and care. These tips can help you heal comfortably and effectively:
- Rest as much as possible
- Move early and gently: try to get up for a shower within 12 hours after birth to help maximise your healing.
- Change pads regularly
- Always wash your hands before changing pads or touching your wound.
- Keep your wound clean and dry
- Stay on top of pain medication
- Try to find comfortable feeding positions, sometimes it can be uncomfortable having your baby leaning on your wound.
- Stay hydrated and make sure to nourish your body with healthy and delicious food.
- The emotional side of a caesarean can be as challenging as the physical. Talk openly with your partner or a trusted friend about how you’re feeling, and don’t hesitate to seek professional support if needed.
For Unexpected Caesareans
If your caesarean wasn’t part of your birth plan, you may feel a range of emotions. Remember, it’s okay to feel disappointed, but try to focus on the knowing that it was nothing that you have done wrong. Always chat with your healthcare provider after an unplanned caesarean so you can understand exactly what happened and seek support. Gidget Foundation Australia is an amazing resource to use if you need emotional support after your caesarean.
Whether your caesarean is planned or a last-minute decision, being prepared and taking steps to support your recovery will help you navigate the experience with confidence. Remember, every birth story is unique, and what matters most is that you felt educated, in control and supported during your birth.
