5 Things They Don’t Tell You When You’re Having A Section Birth

Some May Surprise You

Hello my beauties and how are you all today? I hope you are well and ready for a new week ahead? I know I am even if the lack of sleep is really catching up with me. I am only 11 days away from my (medically needed) section and 18 from my actual due date so I am HUGE! However it occurs to me that lots of ladies will also be in a similar position to me. Especially, if like me, your first birth was natural or an emergency section. However, your next birth will be a planned section. So, today I wanted to take a little time to talk about 5 things about sections you might not know.

It’s No Less Scary Than Normal Labour

I am so sorry to be the bearer of bad news. I am also not worried to tell the truth. So for any of you who feel that having a section is not a ‘real birth’ you should probably just click away now. Is it nice to have a possible date that’s a little more solid than going into labour naturally? Yes it is but that’s not to say your labour won’t start earlier than your section is planned for. When you’re having one on medical grounds it makes it an even more frightening prospect. You have to also mentally build yourself up for the procedure as going to sleep is not an option. It can be when it’s an emergency one but with elective they don’t put you to sleep. Being awake during a medical procedure of such huge importance is scary. I think the key to keep in mind here is that although it’s scary your with professionals who know what they’re doing.

I Hope You’re Not Afraid of Needles

The one thing that shocked me the most and I was completely unaware of is the fact I would have to inject myself. Again your local midwifery may offer to do this for you but you may have to inject yourself daily for about a week after your section. This is to reduce your risk of blood clots post surgery. I have to say for me this was one of the worst parts of recovery as it’s just not nice to have to do. I really take my hat of to those who have to do this daily to stay alive. It is however very important so don’t not do it. If you’re struggling make sure to call your midwife and they will help you however they can. I found it easier to inject the top of my leg (be sure to read the brochure provided to see if you can). The skin on my belly was not taught enough and I still have little marks on my belly where I couldn’t get the needle in. This is why I say if you’re struggling be sure to call someone who can help.

Coughing and Sneezing Will Become a Nightmare

Until you have a problem with the lower portion of your stomach. You can be really unaware of how much you use it. Sitting, standing and even just slightly adjusting yourself in a seat. No one can prepare you for the fear of coughing and sneezing. It is a painful and uncomfortable. What you want is a bed pillow. You can hold this against your stomach and apply a little pressure. This should help support the area and make it a little more bearable.

Trapped Wind

When I had my first section I suffered with an excruciating pain in my shoulder. At some points it was almost as painful as my section wound. I spoke to the onward midwife who informed me it was most likely trapped wind. They can give you medication to help with it if it is really bad. However, no one mentions that trapped wind is a very common problem in section deliveries. The reason this happens is because abdominal surgery can interupt your normal bowel movements causing trapped wind and constipation. The key is to stay hydrated and you could try peppermint tea to help allieviate the trapped wind. Also worth keeping an air freshener handy too (lol).

You Need Six Weeks Recovery Time

I am not saying that you shouldn’t move for 6 weeks as I realise this is unrealistic. However you’re body has gone through 9 months of growing a human. It was already tired and more than uncomfortable. A section only adds to that. Not to mention you have a new born baby to take care of. If you’re lucky enough to have help at hand then please use it. If friends and relatives are offering help with the baby, other children, house work or a home cooked meal then accept the help. If you don’t have help to hand make sure to have a chat with your midwife as they’re maybe options available to you. Your body has been through so much and it really needs time to recover and rest.

Having a section comes with lots of pros and cons but I hope this little insight into what to expect puts your mind at ease a little. I know lots of people who haven’t had one see it as the ‘easy option’ but they would soon change their mind if they needed or had to have one. Just like a natural labour it comes with it own set of worries and fears. Most of the time it is a necessary medical procedure and not the easy/lazy option that it has been made out to be in recent years. My first section saved my little boys life and mine also.

I’m glad I shared these 5 things they don’t tell you about sections births because I felt a little unprepared for both of mine. Even with a third looming just over a week away I still feel a little nervous and scared. I know everything will be fine and so worth it but I am not looking forward to the procedure if I’m honest. Are you preparing for a birth this year? Is yours a section birth? Do you have any questions you’d like to ask please leave them in the comments below and I’ll be sure to get back to you.

Lots of Love,

Tahnee xxx