Conquering the fear of c-sections can be a daunting task. It was one fear that I never thought I’d have to face. As we all know, bringing a new life into the world is a remarkable journey that every expectant mother eagerly anticipates. However, for some pregnant women, the thought of a cesarean section (C-section) can evoke feelings of anxiety and fear. While it’s natural to have concerns about any medical procedure, it’s important to understand that C-sections are safe and sometimes necessary for the well-being of both mother and baby.
In this blog post, I’m going to share my story for my first baby and how we came to a cesarean birth. I’ll also share some strategies I used in conquering the fear of C-sections and empower new moms-to-be with the knowledge and confidence they need.
JOURNEY TO MOTHERHOOD
My journey to motherhood was an interesting one, filled with twists and turns. In my blog post titled “Pregnant Naturally at 44,” I share my story of how I conceived almost a year after experiencing the heartbreak of a miscarriage. The anticipation of becoming a first-time mom again filled me with immense joy, as I eagerly awaited the arrival of a precious new life.
Throughout my pregnancy, I was blessed with a relatively uneventful experience, free from any major complications. Although my age classified me as high risk, I remained optimistic and embraced the journey wholeheartedly. As the initial trimester hurdles of constant seasickness and extreme fatigue gradually faded away, a sense of calmness began to wash over me. Truly and finally accepting that I would indeed become a mother.
I diligently maintained a modified version of my regular workout routine, ensuring the safety and well-being of both myself and our growing daughter. I also ensured that I still ate as healthy as I could during this time. Like most women, I suffered from food aversion to most proteins and salads, two of my most loved foods. However, this commitment to my healthy lifestyle allowed me to stay active and connected to my body while navigating the journey of pregnancy.
BREECH POSITION
Around 27 weeks I went to one of my weekly ultrasound appointments and the ultrasound technician asked me if I knew my baby was in the breech position? I let her know that I in fact did not know that but I was now aware. The nurse told me not to worry because baby girl still had plenty of time to turn and “assume the position” that is optimal for a vaginal birth. However, as the weeks started passing, baby girl got very comfortable in her position and decided that’s how she was going to stay. At 35 weeks, my high risk doctor explained that I had a decision to make given at this point, a c-section birth was most likely in my future.
ECV DECISION
My medical team advised me that I could elect to have an external cephalic version (ECV) which is basically where they attempt to turn the baby in utero or plan for a scheduled c-section. I did my research (as I always do) on an ECV, it’s effectiveness, risks and drawbacks. What I learned was it was still a medical procedure that had to be done in an operating room as it does carry the risk of causing pre term labor resulting in an emergency c-section. After much internal debate, I prayed about it and realized that God had truly blessed me with another opportunity to be a mother. So [for me] I had to trust that He knew the best way to bring our baby girl into the world. The ultimate goal was to have a healthy delivery, healthy baby and healthy mom.
MAKING A DECISION
Once my decision was made, my planned c-section was scheduled with my OB for March 4th. Which ironically was my actual due date. I would be lying to you if I said I was happy about how this played out. In some ways I had to grieve the death of my birth plan and how I thought I would be bringing our little girl into the world. I had, what I considered, my perfect birth experience and I can 100% confirm it did not include a major operation, c-section scar followed by a lengthy c-section recovery.
CONQUERING FEAR OF C-SECTIONS
Once I realized that this was a major surgery, not to mention a major abdominal surgery that is when fear started to creep in. Given up until this point I had managed to only have 1 other minor surgical procedure the idea of surgery was very foreign to me. I decided I needed to take some action steps in order to ease my mind in conquering the fear of c-sections. With all things I have limited knowledge about, my first step was to inform myself through various ways.
Below I outline a few areas I decided to focus on in conquering my fear of c-sections:
Educate Yourself
Fear often stems from the unknown, so one of the best ways to overcome it is through education. Take the time to learn about C-section procedures, including why they are performed and the steps involved. Attend prenatal classes, childbirth class, read reliable resources, and ask your healthcare provider to address any specific concerns you may have. Understanding the process will help dispel misconceptions and allow you to make informed decisions about your birthing plan.
Seek Support
Emotional support plays a vital role in conquering fear. I chose to connect with other moms who have had C-sections and listened to their experiences. I also talked to close friends who had c-sections to get their experience and advice on what to expect throughout the process. Join online forums or local support group(s) where you can share your anxieties and learn from the experiences of others. Seek out a therapist or counselor specializing in prenatal care who can help you work through your fears and develop coping strategies. Remember, you are not alone in your apprehension, and support from others can make a significant difference.
Communicate with your Healthcare Provider
Establishing open and honest communication with your healthcare provider is crucial. Share your fears and concerns with them, and ask questions about the C-section procedure, recovery, and any alternatives that may be available. Your healthcare provider can provide reassurance, address your concerns, and help you understand why a C-section may be recommended. Feeling heard and understood will go a long way in alleviating your fears.
Visualize a Positive Experience
Harness the power of visualization to create positive expectations. Spend time imagining a successful and smooth C-section experience, with you and your baby healthy and safe. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or guided imagery to help calm your mind and body. By focusing on positive outcomes, you can reframe your perspective and reduce anxiety. I’m a huge believer in the power of a positive mindset so I would listen to meditations for a positive birth experience almost nightly. One that I really liked is this third trimester meditation.
Plan Ahead
Preparing for a C-section can help you feel more in control and ease your fears. Create a birth plan that includes your preferences for pain relief and management, post-surgery care, and bonding with your baby. Discuss these preferences with your healthcare provider to ensure they are aligned with the hospital’s policies and procedures. By proactively planning and visualizing the process, you can gain a sense of empowerment and confidence. Also remember that you will have to take it easy for at least 2 weeks (realistically recovery time will be closer to 8 – 12 weeks) so also plan ahead when it comes to meal prepping freezer meals, and how to tackle daily tasks if you are unable to have help during your recovery. You can find freezer meals I prepped in anticipation of my surgery via freezer meals for new moms.
Embrace the Team
Remember that you are not alone during a C-section. There will be a team of skilled healthcare professionals who are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of both you and your baby. Familiarize yourself with the roles of the medical staff involved, such as the obstetrician, anesthesiologist, and nurses. Understanding their expertise and the coordinated effort involved can provide reassurance and alleviate anxiety.
DURING MY C-SECTION PROCEDURE
Given I had a very good idea of what to expect prior to my c-section delivery, I felt very well prepared going in. For me, there truly were no surprises and many of the common fears women face with a c-section birth had been eased. Once they took me back to the operating room, I was prepped by the anesthesiologist and the delivery nurse team that would be taking care of me and my daughter.
During the procedure the anesthesiologist assistant was monitoring me near my head and she ensured to keep me and my husband updated as to what was going on behind the curtain. When it came time for the part where I would feel a lot of pulling and tugging, she gave me a countdown to it starting as well as how to breathe through it. Most importantly, once our beautiful baby was about to enter the world, she advised my husband when to stand up so he could take pictures of her entering the world.
After the pediatric team ensured our daughter was healthy and was able to regulate her body temperature, they brought her to me and I was able to start skin to skin contact. The team wheeled me from the delivery room to the recovery room for a few hours until our hospital room was ready. Once we got to our hospital room, that was when the true recovery period began.
FEELING EMPOWERED
While conquering the fear of c-sections is understandable, it’s essential to approach this birthing option with a positive mindset. By educating yourself, seeking support, and communicating openly with your healthcare provider, you can conquer your fear and embrace the procedure with confidence. Remember, the most important outcome is the safe delivery of a healthy baby, regardless of the method. By preparing mentally and emotionally, you can focus on the joyous moment of welcoming your little one into the world.
Feel free to connect with me on my social platforms as I continue to share more of my motherhood journey and healthy recipes! Give a follow at: Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest!
Leave a Reply