What to Expect with a Scheduled C Section

Articles

About 1 out of every 3 births in the United States are done by C Section, many of which are scheduled in advance for health reasons. The idea of a scheduled C Section, however, can make you very nervous as you approach your delivery date. So what should you expect with a scheduled C Section as the date grows closer?

What to Expect with a Scheduled C Section: Before Your Appointment
On the day of your C Section it’s important to avoid eating or drinking anything 8 hours before your surgery, including coffee, water and chewing gum, to prevent aspiration during the procedure. You’ll arrive at the OB Reception area of the hospital about 2 hours before your surgery so the prep work can be completed.

What to Expect with a Scheduled C Section: Pre-Surgery
When you arrive for your C Section a nurse will begin by monitoring the baby’s heart rate, drawing your blood, beginning an IV line and shaving the incision area, if necessary. An anesthesiologist will also counsel you about how the anesthesia works. You’ll also need to sign consent forms and the surgeon will ask you if you have any questions and will go over the procedure with you.

What to Expect with a Scheduled C Section: Operating Room
Once this prep work is completed you’ll be taken to the operating room. A Foley bladder catheter will be inserted to drain the bladder and a spinal anesthetic will be applied, which will allow you to remain awake for the procedure. Any remaining baby monitors will be removed and your abdomen will be prepared for the surgery, which includes applying a sterilizing solution like iodine solution, unless you’re allergic. A hip roll will also be placed under you to allow for proper blood flow to the baby and you’ll be draped. Once the anesthesia is working the surgery will begin.

What to Expect with a Scheduled C Section: Surgery
The surgery begins with an incision, typically a horizontal cut above the pubic hairline. Once the surgeon reaches your uterus he will determine how the baby is lying before making a cut to get the baby out. A low-transverse uterine incision will be made that’s just large enough to remove the baby after the surgeon stretches it a bit with his hands. The assisting surgeon will suction away blood as the primary surgeon removes the baby’s head, pushing on the top of the uterus to help the baby get out. You should feel little more than tugging and pressure during this entire procedure.