Scared of C-section

I know you got a ton of responses....but if you tell the doctor that gives you the spinal ahead of time they can get you on a O2 mask that will make you feel better.....it did for me the 2nd time. Also if you continue to talk it will remind you to breath. Good Luck and try to be calm.

Believe it or don't, my C-section delivery was pie-easy. Two days before my due date, my baby was headed down the chute butt-first, and I was in labor (unbeknownst to me). So, basically, my OB/GYN was all like, "You want I should cut you tonight or tomorrow?"

In the OR at 9:10, baby was delivered by 9:31AM.

Best of luck!

I had a c-section with my first and was teaching aerobics, again, at six weeks post birth. The only complication that I had with my c-section is that they had to take away my morphine drip because I was too liberal with my dosage! :)

You will be fine!!! I had a planned c-section in September because of complications with my pregnancy and it almost broke my heart. I had always pictured myself as the "all natural" type and had a hard time accepting the fact that I NEEDED a c-section.

But, ya know what? I have a beautiful, healthy baby boy who is the light of my life. That is the only thing that matters. I actually did some guided meditation before to help relax myself during the procedure.

As for the surgery itself, maybe prepare by watching some videos of uneventful c-sections. If you Google c-section videos a bunch of them will come up. Sometimes it helps to know exactly what is happening during the surgery to relieve some anxiety. Just remember that this operation is done so very often and the risk of complications is so very low. You will be fine! Best of luck to you!!

T.

Hi sweetie,

I can remember getting to the panicky point, as well. My c-section was much needed after a no-go on an induction that started when I was 8 days overdue and ended when I was 10 days overdue. I will never consider labor again. Although my c-section wasn't the most perfect, it was the safest for my large baby. I wasn't worried about brain trauma in delivery of him or any other birth injuries that can occur. I thought I was the champion for natural deliveries and was looking so forward to it, but you know what - it was fine. I actually think I rather prefer to recover upstairs rather than downstairs! In the end, I was fine, my baby was perfect and we were a family. I suggest that you maybe talk to a licensed counselor about learning some guided meditation or imagery that you can try while you are in surgery. Keeping your mind focused on something else can be a powerful tool, especially if you have someone there speaking you through it.

And guess what --- you may have no side effects to your next spinal AT ALL! You very possibly could look back at this anxiety and laugh. EVERY delivery is different.

I will be praying for your peace of mind. Congratulations on having another baby choose you as their mommy.

A.

C-Sections are scary! I just had one at the beginning of December. Mine was easy. It was an emergency C so I was under general anesthetic, and don't remember anything. The only bad part was not being conscious when my baby was born. Since yours is scheduled and not an emergency they won't use general anesthesia. I have plenty of friends and coworkers who have had spinals for their c's and not had any problems. GOOD LUCK!

I also had a successful, but unplanned, c-section with my second child. I went in for a final untrasound just before my due date because they were monitoring his kidneys. While there, he estimated my son to be about 10.5 lbs! Needless to say that wasn't happening. Lol. My doctor had me come in that afternoon to deliver (I was due over the weekend anyhow). I went in, filled out paperwork, went to pre-op, and shortly thereafter, to delivery. I never felt a thing, could hear my doctor calmly doing what she needed to do, and about fifteen minutes later saw my son for the very first time. I would like to have a VBAC when we decide to have our last, but I was very satisfied with the way my doctor had taken care of us. Oh, he wasn't 10.5 lbs, but he was 9.9lbs with a large head so thank goodness she recommended c section because it likely would have ended up as an emergency c-section later anyhow.

Just talk to your doctor. I'm sure they will know exactly how to calm your nerves. And enjoy the rest of your pregnancy. Congratulations.

I know you have had lots of responses, but I thought I would add mine quickly. I too had an unplanned c-section for my first - and while I did not experience the problems you had - I did have some issues after the surgery which made me question having any more children. When I did get pregnant with my 2nd, I then was panicky about doing another c-section. After talking to lots of moms, decided I had made the right decision, only to have many of the same 'issues' after the surgery. (I went into labor the day before my surgery was scheduled.) With my 3rd delivery though - there was no labor, all went as planned and it was truly the best c-section of the three. The 'issues' with the first two did not happen with the 3rd. I can only say it was due to not going into labor and all the things your body does during that time. Goodluck and try to stay calm - it can only help.

My c-section was a breeze. My nurses were very caring, gave me warm blankets to stop my shivering, and even took pictures for us. They calmed me when I needed it and made me laugh when I needed it. I was also worried about the spinal, but it wasn't as bad as I thought. I think surgery at anytime is scary. Just ask questions throughout the process, they should be more than happy to ease any of your concerns.

KA

Hi....I had two c-sections and they actually went pretty well.......Just talk to your doctor about al of your concerns so that they can make you more comfortable....Thats is why I only had two kids....hahah

My 1st birth also ended up in a c-sec.after 24hrs.of labor and 3hrs.of pushing. I was so scared for our 2nd birth.... but we decided to go VBAC with our rules! If we were still in labor after 12hrs. we would go with another c-sec..... 8hrs. into it we had our 2nd child!! Every birth is different and you can't base how you do things off a bad experience. VBAC was the best thing we decided on. I can't imagine having a
c-sec. with a young child to be coming home to, it's different if it's an emergency....Just relax! And if you go
c-sec. anyway... it's only as eventful as you make it. The more nevous you are the worse it will seem. Just breathe easy.

I had a c-section with both my boys. The first was unplanned after 15 hours of induced labor, and the second was planned, but happened early because my water broke. My first c-section was pretty uneventful, but the second was a breeze, comparatively of course! And recovery was actually better the second time around. I was up and moving much quicker and with less discomfort than I remembered from the last time. Have you talked with your doctor about the spinal? Maybe if you let the anesthesiologist know about your previous experience, they can avoid the breathing difficulties. Good luck!

I had my second c-section 12 months and 10 days after the first emergency c-section. Both c-sections went fine. The second was a bit easier because I knew what to expect. The only "complication" during the second one was that there was a lot of scar tissue from the first one and it took longer to get him out because they had to be really careful. I am scheduled to have my third c-section in 19 days... the only thing I'm really nervous about is how my first two are going to react.

My first c-section was exactly as you described. I was having twins, and was pre-eclamptic. I think due to the fluid, they had to go higher with the spinal. I truly felt as if i were dying. On my next pregnancy, it was a scheduled c-section. It was amazing. I loved it. I was relaxed, and calm. At first, I started to panic, like before, but then the lady gave me something else, and I was in la la land. I was laughing, and absolutely euphoric. Describe your first experience to the anethesologist, as I did, and she understood the situation better. After the second delivery, I could have done a million more, but it was our last. Good luck.

I had an easy c-section. I would not have done it any other way. My son was breech and I had a planned c-section. It was scheduled on a Friday and I went into labor the Monday before. I was sent to the hospital for observation and I was there for about an hour when they told me that I wasn't in labor and they were going to call my doctor to send me home. At that time my water broke and I had my son in my arms 40 minutes later. Everything went so smooth and fast. Luckily for me the surgery room was available as was the doctor and the anesthesiologist. I hope that you have a great delivery and a very healthy baby! Good Luck!

I did not have easy c-sections. My body did not agree with the spinal with either of my children. Each time my blood pressure dropped very low and I felt out of control and queasy. With my second child, I did tell them how out of control I felt with my first c-section and also how my blood pressure dropped. The anesthesiologist was helpful and tried to give me something that would ease that, but unfortunately for me it didn't help. :(

I would try telling the anesthesiologist of your concerns and anxiety and hopefully they can help you through this.

Good Luck and I hope everything goes smoothly for you!

Don't worry the second time is so much easier, because you know what to expect. I had an emergency c-section with my son after 39 hours and it was terrible. The second c-section I was out of the hospital in 2 days with little pain. It is a lot easier when you know what is going to happen. I did have strong pains and discomfort in my left arm and heart, but the doctor gave me a shot of benadryl and it went away. I think that discomfort happens in most c-sections.
Good Luck!

Wow, I can understand your concerns. They are warranted! I had a C-Section and it was okay for me. The epidural was what I received intially because they thought that I may be able to deliver vaginally. When that did not happen, I was wheeled into the O.R for the C-Section. I only had nausea as the procedure went on. My doctor was awesome! The MAJOR issue that I had was when I was wheeled into recovery and the staff came to depress the abdomen to allow it to take it's shape back. My anesthesia wore off, so you can imagine the shrill of pain when I screamed to the top of my lungs like there was no tomorrow. I had no strength to deal with my daughter, and it took 3 medications to control the pain. I pray that this C-Section will go well for you, so try not to worry.

Hi-

I had my second "C" section July 13th,07. This one was planned and went very smoothly. Since the date and time was scheduled in advance, it was very calm. We walked into labor and delivery for all the pre-op stuff, and then I walked to the operating room!

I will tell you my first one went very smoothly as well, so I really didn't expect anything different. My recovery went really quick, and I didn't seem to have much pain at all the second time around. Maybe it's because I was chasing my 14 month old!!

Congratulations on your second child-
J.

Dear N N ~

Had a c-section after three days in labor with my son: He would never turn down so that I could deliver.
Next son, had PLANNED c-section and went into labor the night before – in L&D I was yelling “I am not having this baby” ~ what I was trying to say was not having this baby naturally as it was a 10 lb/22in baby that was NOT going to FIT!!! YEARS later….our youngest was a PLANNED EARLY c-section and due to my age we had MANY talks with the DOCTOR about concerns/issues etc. <children range from age 22 – 5!!> What a blessing. My husband and I walked in, did some paperwork <meal plans actually>, changed, did all the pre things, boom – in and out and in our room in less than 2 hours. WAS FABULIOUS!!!
You REALLY need to talk to your doctor. Tell them your concerns/issues. It will go SO MUCH better when the day comes. EVEN if you discuss them with the nurses in L&D, they were GREAT when we asked about anything!!

GOOD LUCK.

You will be fine. I had two c-sections. They were fine. My second was the easiest by far. Yes, you are in the hospital 3 days after the birth BUT, those three days are for you. You get to have yourself taken care of....and sleep...ahhh, you actually get to sleep.lol

I had my first with an emergency c-section and was just thankful that he was ok. My 2nd I opted for a planned c-section and was so nervous b/c I knew what it would be like. But the recovery was SO MUCH EASIER and it went so much better, I think b/c it wasn't an emergency and I hadn't gone through labor, etc. I'm hoping for another one and while I dread the whole surgery part of it, I know I'll get through it! Good luck!

I've had 2 c-sections. They were both easy to me. The recoveries I thought were especially easy. I don't know if it's just me. But you hear so many horor stories that you expect the worst. I've had migranes worse than childbirth. Is there discomfort? Yes. But, for such a short time. With first child I was in labor for about 10 hrs. Pushed for 1hr then had a c-section. The worst thing was that I was mildly naseous from the anestehia (spelling?) The second c-section was planned. However, went into labor 4 days early. It was very laid back since I wasn't fully dialated. Filled out paper work talked to all the surgeons. I had the baby less than 2 hours after checking in. I think I took 3 extra pain killers while in the hospital. It just wasn't that bad to me.

NN~
I had both my children by c-section and I will say that the second time (while still nervous) was easier since I knew what to expect.
What happened to you happened to me but during my second c-section. The thing was I was able to reassure myself that all would be fine since I was fine after the first.
It is mind over matter --- which is soooooo easier said than done!
You might want to try some visualization . . . closing your eyes and picturing yourself in a situation that is calming to you . . . then when you are in an anxious state of mind close your eyes and go to your calm place. It sounds corny I know but I am an anxious person by nature and I have found that this helps to ward off many a panic attack :-)
You will be great! And when all is said and done you will have another beautiful baby.
You'll be in my prayers sweetie!

I had an unevenful c-section. It took more anesthesia than they thought to work, and I had a subtle feeling as the doc was "in there" but it was fast and easy, After 4 years of infertility treatments, surgeries and IVFs it was a breeze! Best of luck to you.

Yes 2 years ago I had a c-section. Everything went fine, the epideral went ok. You may not get the same person who gave you the spinal. So don't worry talk to the person who is going to give you the spinal and tell her what happened and have her or him talk to you as there going to give it. So don't worry i am sure you will be ok. Good luck and congrats

M.

I am going to have my fourth c-section this april. I totally know how you feel. My first one was not planned but became neseccary when my body would not dialate past 3cm after 2 days of labor and lots of meds. I also choice not to do a vbac because of fears of what happend the first time. My 2 c-sections was easier than my first since I was mentally prepared for it going into the hospital. I knew what was going to happen. I would remomend speaking to your doc about the spinal or epidural and voice your concerns so everyone is aware of what happened last time so they can help avoid the same mistakes again.
I had epidurals for my 1st two babies and a spinal for #3 and i had a bad reaction to the spinal and am going to insist on an epidural for this baby. So just remember to be proactive about your comfort and health, as long as you have a good doc they will listen to your concerns and help you work them out.

Good Morning N N

I had 4 scheduled s-sections and all 4 went smoothly. I was scared of course, but all went well. I had epidurals with all of them, not spinals, so I was able to get up the next day. Don't get yourself worked up, you might get your baby worked up. All will go fine.

God's Blessing to you and your baby
D.

Oh I SO know what you are talking about! I was Terrified when I had my first section!! I remember having a little trouble breathing w/ mine too but I just tried to remain calm, concentrate on my hubby and I did fine. If you think they gave you too much of the med or something just ask for a talk w/ the anesteiologist before your surgery they should have records of your last surgery and the amount they gave you then should be in there, maybe they could back it down a bit for you this time.
Good Luck and CONGRATS on the new baby!! --Row

I too have had c-sections. The first sounds similiar to yours, labor for 12 hours and then rushed for emergency c section. They put me under for that one so I remember nothing. However, I also opted for c-section with my second child. I was awake for this one and it was uneventful besides producing my beautiful son!! I also have a friend that had emergency c and then scheduled second c section she too had uneventful c section the second time. It seems to me that the first is usually harder because it is unplanned and usually an emergency so things get rushed. I think and hope the second will be easier for you as it was for my friend and I. Good luck and congratulations!!

I had a WONDERFUL c-section. I delivered my daughter vaginally but tore very badly. Due to the anticipated size of my son, they tried to get me to schedule a section. I ended up canceling it. On the day I was "supposed" to have it I woke up not being able to walk, due to the pressure in my pelvic area.

I ended up having a section two days later. I was so scared, and kinda felt like a failure since not many people I knew had a section.

My husband and I went, had fun in while waiting, making light of the whole fear thing. I went in and it was so great. Everything went just fine. Could not have been better.

Plus the recovery wasn't nearly as bad as I had thought with a 2 1/2 yo at home.

I would totally do it again - if only I could get pregnant!! :) (My cycle is totally messed up right now!!)

Try to relax, everything will be fine. Good Luck and congrats on your new addition!! :)

I had the very same thing happen with my first c-section. It was frightening because I couldn't feel myself breathe. The anesthesiologist(spelling?) assured me I was breathing but couldn't feel it. He did later give me oxygen. These things helped some but not being able to feel it was really disturbing. (I couldn't feel my hands or shoulders and it made it difficult to swallow too.) I have had 5 additional c-sections with different anesthesiologists. A good anesthesiolgist will ask you about your past experiences too. They do this because the information they get helps them to medicate you for your current operation/proceedure. I copied the following from a website about the things that affect how high a spinal goes.
(Spread of block is influenced by many factors:

Local anaesthetic dose - volume, dosage and baricity of local anaesthetic.
Position of the patient - especially important when a hyperbaric solution of local anaesthetic is used.
Patient characteristics - height, age, gender, intra-abdominal pressure and anatomical configuration of the spinal cord.
Technique - type of needle, site of injection, direction of needle, velocity of injection and use of barbotage.)
There are many things an anesthesiologist can do to help you to have a better experience this next time.

I made sure each time I had a section the attending anesthesiologist knew that my first spinal went too high. They were all really good about being careful for that not to happen again for me. With my first I was numb from my chin to my toes. I felt nothing, no pressure or anything. It also took more than an hour in recovery to even feel my toes. The rest of my c-sections I actually felt a little pressure during the birth. With my last, I began feeling my toes on the operating table. (That was a little freaky too! :)
Just be sure to communicate with the anesthesiologist that you have. They have excellent training and really can compensate for many things if they know how a spinal worked, or didn't work for you in the past.
M.
Mother of 6(all by c-section) 2months to 12 years.

I have had 2 c-sections. Both of my actual surgeries were just fine. It was the recovery on both that was the worst for me. It took me a long time to recover from my first one but my second one was easier for me. The surgery was easy and I recovered quicker. Maybe you can try and epidural this time instead of a spinal. For my first surgery I had an epidural and I had a bad reaction. For the second c-section I had a spinal and it was easier for me....but everybody is different. I'm sure that this c-section will be easier for you. You know what to expect and now you know how you react to a spinal. The best thing you can do is express your concerns to your doctor.
K.

Just wanted to let you know that I had two c-sections that went off went out a hitch and no one really ever talks about the uneventful stuff.

My first child was born in 2004 and she was breach (and turned breach at 38 weeks and never turned back, and that has pretty much summarized her whole short life so far - difficult and stubborn!), so I had a planned c-section at 40 weeks.

Then for my next pregnancy with twins, I had another planned c-section at 37 weeks. I used the same doctor for both and had a lot of confidence in him and his abilities.

The second c-section went alot easier too because for the first one, they tried for almost an hour to get an epidural in me, but couldn't so then they used a spinal which has a smaller needle.

I think you should probably just discuss the problems you had with the anesthesia the first time with your anesthesiologist when you meet with him or her, which is what I did, and it actually helped the second c-section go much easier. They had the spinal done the second time before I knew it!

Good luck!

My first-born came via an emergency C-section, with an epidural that was uneven (too numb on one side with the other having a bit of feeling: a little pain, but nothing outrageous). Since then, my next two births had to be C-Sections. Fortunately a planned C-Sect. is a much better experience. It's a very relaxed situation, where you go in & they give you a spinal block. The good thing is that you're numb from the lower rib cage down, so there's no issue with the fear of breathing & it allows for better pain management immediately following the birth. Although I wish I'd been able to experience a VBAC, it wasn't a healthy choice for my children, & I honestly didn't mind the subsequent C-Sect.'s at all. Good Luck with your next little miracle! (P.S. Often times the pain management for after the spinal block wears off is morphine, although it works great, I experienced some itching issues - talk to your doctor re: benedryl medication/dosage prior to your C-Sect.)

Mine was a planned c-section as well, almost a year ago. I had a fairly easy one. The worst part was the needle going into my spine. Not that it really hurt. It was just uncomfortable. I was breathing fine. The anesthesiologist even asked if I needed a little "cocktail" at all. I was fine. The only thing that made my a little upset was smelling my own skin being lasered. So nothing major. If I had to do it again I would.

I guess what you are asking is for someone to tell of an easy c-section, right? Well, although mine was also unplanned and unwanted, I have to say that it was a piece of cake and after the fact I questioned why I let myself labor for 11 hours without an epidural -- next time I think I will just schedule the c-section! I wanted to have a natural birth, and I especially didn't want the epidural because it terrified me. I labored for 11 hours and only dialated to 7 before they talked me into the epidural hoping that it would relax my body enough to dialate completely. It did that, so I was able to start pushing 20 minutes after the epidural but the baby was in distress and his heart stopped. The doctor flopped me around all over the place to get his heart going again and told me she saw no other option it was time for a c-section. Because i already had the epidural, they rushed me into surgery. I swear to you that only minutes after being in the room I had a beautiful baby boy! I was so relaxed and of course tired after a long day of laboring that I fell asleep while they were stitching me back up. I wouldn't be afraid of doing it again, the only thing I didn't like was coming out of the medicine -- the constant shaking was quite annoying and troubling for my family to watch. I wish you much luck on your next section, but I'm sure it'll go great for you!

I had the same thing happen with my second child. Scary as all heck.

My first child was a c-section and it went very well. A lot better than I thought.

Just make sure you ask for an epidural for any pain. The one that numbed you all the way was a spinal tap. You do not want that one.

As far as a VBAC, talk to your doctor. YOu might be able to do it. Don't give up on it with out talking to your doc first. Good luck with the baby and let the baby be healthy and you stay strong.

I really wanted a natural childbirth with my son however due to concerns about his health we ended up being induced. He had problems with the induction (heart rate kept dropping) so we ended up having an "emergency" c-section. The doctor and nurses were wonderful. They were calm and professional which helped me to not freak out as much I think as well as the fact that my DH was so reassuring. I had an epidural already in place when we went into the OR because of the pitocin and trying to do a vaginal birth. I had no problems with it. The procedure seemed to go so smoothly. My son came without any further problems or complications. And my recovery was pretty quick. Although with the next baby I'd like to have a natural childbirth experience if a c-section would be necessary I'd do the epidural/c-section as it was not as scary as I imagined it.

I have had 2 c-sections, that last one was 7 days ago. The first one I delivered in the Quad Cities and the last one at St. John's. Both of my c-sections were pretty easy. The one I had 7 days ago was very successful. The nurse was wonderful and explained everything to me. Do not be afraid to ask your nurse any questions you have. The one thing that was hard this time was after the surgery they put me on a morphine drop. I would ask your doctor if they plan on doing that. The first time I went straight to oral pain medication and I felt so much better. The morphine drop made me sick and kind of out of it that first day. If you have any questions that I could help answer please feel free to ask. Thinking of you and hoping you have a good experience!

I had my first with a C-Section after 14 hours of labor and it was difficult to recover. So of course I was not happy to hear it was being recommended that my second would have to be done via C-Section. I have to say that the planned one was EASY! I was up walking around later that day and did not have any recovery problems. I guess the main reason it was easier is because the labor didn't wear out the body before. Good Luck!

I, too, scheduled a c-section for my second pregnancy, after going through labor all day with my first pregnancy (with twins) and then ending up having to have a c-section. I considered a VBAC, but when my daughter's due date came and went, and the thought of going through labor all day and ending up with a c-section again, I just scheduled it. I was very scared too, because my first one was quite traumatic (I had other scary issues going on during labor, and I really thought I was going to die during the surgery!) SO, I do remember going into this second c-section very anxious. It was all for naught! This time, I think I had to be at the hospital at about 6:30 in the morning...got most of the pre-surgery procedures started by 7:00, got into the operating room by about 8:15, and within about 15 minutes TOTAL, the whole thing was done...my beautiful healthy baby girl was born, and I felt totally FINE!!!! When I got into the operating room in tears because I was so nervous, my doctor reassured me that this c-section would be very easy and done in no time, and she was absolutely right! So, don't fret, say lots of prayers, think calm thoughts, and everything will go wonderfully! good luck! :)

N N

Recently I attended a cesarean birth where the mom had a simular experience with the anethesia. She spoke with the doctor admisitering prior to her birth and told him her concerns. He agreed to try and use less medication to avoid simular experiences. My advice is to discuss your options with him and see if they can adjust the medication.
Also this is a time to rely on comfort from your support person. They can talk with you, massage your temples etc to keep you calm. That feeling of not being able to breathe happens alot, unfortunately and if someone is keeping you calm, it can help alot.
Best of luck with your new arrival.

I think your experience might have had more to do with the personnel handling your surgery than anything else. My anesthesiologist (sp?) was there with me the whole time,was very caring, held my face and talked to me to calm me before my husband came in (my c-section was emergency, 4 weeks early, with 3 previous vaginal births) and even told me - your body is going to think it's not getting a deep enough breath, but it's just the medicine tricking you, I promise your breathing is fine - I also started to feel nauseated and began dry heaving while I was open, but baby was out - he gave me something in my IV and it stopped almost immediately. he held my hand, rubbed my cheek, wiped my tears and held the emesis (sp?) basin while I dry heaved. I think it's very important that the only person you can see, have a good bedside manner. Perhaps since yours is planned you could have your pick of anesthesiologists.

Anyway, that was my experience. I hope yours is better than last time. Good Luck and early congrats!

I had a scheduled c-section and it was really uneventful. they gave me the spinal and i still felt some so they gave me a little more and it was fine. i think they gave me a bit too much because it took me a couple of hours to be able to move my legs but no pain or discomfort except what is to be expected. i was walking down the hallways the next day trying to get started on the road to recovery. my only complaint was that i had staples that needed to be removed 1 week later. they were all of the cause of the pain after the surgery because after they were out, i didnt even need aleve. i was ready physically to go back to work in 2 weeks.

I haven't had a c-section, but I am a nurse anesthetist and have done the anesthesia (spinals, epidurals and generals) for lots of them for 15 years. Most C-sections, especially ones that are not emergent, do go "easy". It is unfortunate that your first experience was so frightening. A "high" spinal makes you feel like you can't breathe because the intercostal muscles (the ones between the ribs) which normally contract to help you inhale are numb and do not work well. This can cause the sensation of being unable to breathe even though you are actually well oxygenated. The "level" of a spinal is influenced by the volume of local anesthetic that is injected into the spinal fluid, and the position that you are placed in immediately after it is injected, among other things. Anesthesia records from your first C-section, which document the dose you were given, are available in the medical records department of the hospital. You will be interviewed by an anesthesia provider (Nurse Anesthetist or Anesthesiologist)before this c-section. Be sure to tell them about your first experience, and request that they obtain and review the medical records from your first section so that they can adjust the dose, if appropriate, to lessen the chance of repeating your bad experience. If it would make you feel better to have this information yourself ahead of time, so you can just hand a copy of it to your anesthesia provider, you have the right to access your own medical records. Call the hospital and ask for the medical records department. Give them the date of your first C-section, tell them you want a copy of the Anesthesia Record from your surgery, and find out their policy for release of records. They usually require up to several days advance notice, and charge a small photo-copy charge. You will probably have to come in with a photo ID and sign a release form to pick them up.
Hope your next experience goes "easy". Even after all these years, I still get choked up at every birth. I am privleged to witness such miracles on a regular basis...

I have had 2 c-sections. The first was an emergency one and went well. For the second I went back and forth between vbac and doing a scheduled c-section. My doctor was willing to do the vbac but wasn't going to let me labor as long as I did the first time and I to thought I was going to end up in the same scenario. My 2nd c-section went very smooth. Let your doctor know about your concerns and talk to the person who does your spinal this time and let them know what happened last time. The only problem I had with my surgery was my teeth chattered a lot and my jaw was sore. It will all be fine. Remember the most important thing is the end result a healthy and happy baby.

Hello,
I just wanted you to know that I have been through 2 c-sections (I have a 3.5 year old and an 8 mo old) and both of mine went very well and easy :) They were even at two different hospitals, two different drs and two different states :) Hope that makes you feel better. Good luck and don't worry too much :)
A.

Hi. I have two kids. My first one was a vaginal delivery that totally went wrong!! My second one was a planned c-section. I was terrified of the c-section, but it went very smoothly...and I actually enjoyed it. It took awhile to get the spinal in, but after that, everything was smooth sailing. I didn't feel any pain or pressure. I also did not have the trouble breathing, but I have heard that the spinal can make you feel like you can't breath. Our Anethesiologist (sp?) was super and stayed there the whole time asking me if I was ok many times. The only discomfort I had was the itching I had as a side effect of the morphine. I really enjoyed my c-section...I know that's weird to say, but considering what happened to me during my first delivery, this was a very pleasant change! Good luck! Be sure to talk to your doctor about your concerns and your anethesiologist when he comes in to speak with you before the surgery.

A.

Hi there,
I have had two c-sections, both planned (my children are almost 3 and almost 1). Everything went very smoothly with both of them! You might try expressing your concerns to your doctor if you haven't already done so, as well. Knowing that she/he knows your concerns might go a long way toward easing your fears.
Also,realize, just because you had problems with your first c-section doesn't mean you'll have problems with the second. The situations are different. With the first you labored for a long time. Your upcoming c-section is scheduled, so you will not be as exhausted.
You will be fine!!!!! Hope this helps at least a little :)

Yes I had a C-Section after a 26hr.labor, 2 hours of which were "pushing". I knew at the time they said C-section I had no other choice and the baby was in distress. All went fine with it, and my baby was healthy etc... I chose to try and have my second child "VBAC", I didn't get the epidural as early on as the first one(which I was told can make a difference). The labor itself was not nearly as long and I was able to deliver VBAC. Good luck with your decision and of course the baby!

Hi, N N Please don't be scared of a repeat c-section again. I had to have a c-section with my 1st son in March of 2002 & it was unplanned after being induced & only diliating to 2 & 13 of hours waiting for labor. Then I had a repeat c-section in August of 2004 at Central DuPage with my girl. The secong was a very wonderful experience. The staff there was great. They were so very talkitive with every procedure that was happening. (Cause I new what to expect.) Everything went so very smoothly & my recovery was good. I do know people do have horror stories & I believe you have a good strong will & it will go smoothly. Take cale of yourself. K.

I gave birth Jan. 30th and had an unplanned C-section after almost 30 hours of (natural)labor. I had no choice because Max's heart rate was not tolerating the pushing well, and I was stuck at 9cm. Obviously a c-section was not part of my birth plan, so I had a good cry, and then realized that I just wanted to hold my healthy baby and that was what was important. It was a very quick, very easy c-section. I have nothing bad to say about the process. The team was wonderful, and I was nursing Max within the hour. It was extremely uneventful and so far I've had no complications with my recovery. I really hope you have a better experience this time! Good luck!

I too had a C-Section, baby was too big. It was planned when I was 37 weeks pregnant. Dr. decided to wait until, I was full term ( since it was my first ). Believe me, I was so nervous and didn't know what to expect. I too had a similiar situation, however, prior to having C. I quickly signed up for yoga and meditation techniques to help me through this.

The problem for me is the Spinal didn't take and they had to get me up from the table and insert an epidural, I was completely numb from the waist down and than notice my jaw area felt numb too. I couldn't panic, I just closed my eyes and started to meditate from what I learn in class. My heart was racing because they notice my blood pressure up / down.

As soon it was over, I did meditation again. This has helped me a great deal. I also, had placenta previa which they had to cut the placenta in half to get the baby out and the baby had to be vaccumed out, he was stuck in my pelvic bone. Talk about stress.... ( not too mention Spinal Headace, afterwards ).

I do want another baby, I too am scared! We will see what happens this summer. Stay postive about everything and treated like it's your first one. You will be alright.

Try pre & post yoga and Baby Aqua Areobics classes. I went to Delnor Hospital, in the Geneva location.
Hope this helps.. Good luck to you.
Married & Mother of a 14 month old Son.

My first c-section was hard too...My second one was a piece of cake literally! :D I had a great dr. They used the same incession (sp) site. Do you trust your dr.? Like you I was dreading another c-section and wanted a VBAC but alas, it wasn't meant to be because my son was breached. You'll find as long as the spinal is done correctly you'll find even the same day that you are able to walk around and have much more energy...Yes, the first time I had 22 hours of labor with my daughter but she wouldn't come vaginally so thus the first C-section...Talk to your Dr. about your concerns. Really if they know what they're doing pray for a different anasthesiologist then the first one then you'll find it to be a much better and smoother process. Good luck!

The reaction to the spinal that you described it totally normal. It is a side effect of the medication - you didn't get too much. That is what it is "supposed to" feel like. Isn't that horrible? My friend's doc told her beforehand that she would feel that, so she felt it but she knew it was coming so she wasn't so afraid. I felt the same way too, I kept telling the anesthesia doc that I couldn't breathe & he kept showing me the oxygen monitor. (I had to have an emergency section due to fetal distress after 2 days of labor - sucky!)

If your doc is supportive, I would try my best to VBAC. Studies show it is far less risky than a second section. I read a study last week that said 1 out of 10 babies are CUT accidentally during sections! That scared me more than a repeat spinal. I could never forgive myself if I made a premeditated choice that hurt my baby, you know? I know I'm supposed to be making you less worried here, but I would feel I was shortchanging you if I didn't share the facts I have learned. Part of the bond of Sisterhood, you know. :)

I agree, having major surgery to deliver after being exhausted from labor is far from the ideal way to come into being a mother of two. BUT, for me I would at least like to give my body a chance to do what it was designed to do. I kind of feel like I owe it to myself after my 1st "failed" labor. If any of these thoughts touches a nerve with you, you may want to give more consideration to that VBAC. Birth feelings are very strong and can impact how you bond with your new baby.

If you go into your birth experience having made an educated decision, I think that will soothe your fears more than anything. Knowledge really is power, so I would encourage you to read all you can about VBACs and repeat sections and make your own independent choice. Whatever path you choose, I wish you peace and strength for the journey, Mama!

While I don't encourage a C-section when a VBAC is possible, for many reasons (the baby has to be suctioned and is 'snotty' for a day and a half b/c they didn't get 'squeezed out' the way they're supposed to, not to mention your tot will need you and you can't pick him up for 6 wks), i did have an easy c-section. unplanned, unexpected (41+ wks, second pregnancy, breech and no amniotic fluid to try to turn the baby down). the spinal went fast, and yeah, I felt a little weight on my chest, but didn't feel suffocative. i just focused on my DH and waited to hear him tell me what the gender of our baby was. we were at rush-copley in Aurora and i got to watch her as they checked her over in the dlvy rm while i was still on the table. and i go to nurse her w/in 45 minutes of them pulling her out. it went really well. i wish you luck.

if you are going to nurse and live around naperville (or want to drive here), i coordinate and lead a weekly breastfeeding support grp. see "my businesses" (NOT a business, just a volunteer thing i do).

Hi, there
I have had 2 c-sections. Both were completely different experiences. Make sure you make your concerns known to the doctor giving you your spinal and let them know what happened last time. They will make sure to watch what they are doing. My spinal wore off quickly during my first and they didn't believe me so when I went in for my second I made that known and they were very good about making sure I couldn't feel anything and giving me pain medication afterwards a lot sooner then a normal person. Just relax....don't let your nerves get the better of you. You will do great and in the end it's all worth it anyway!!:)

Hi!

I can certainly understand your anxiety. I had an unplanned c-section in April of last year. I was scared to death! However, everything went great! The recovery as you know is tough, but I was pleasnatly surprised as to how well the prcedure went.

Maybe have a conversation with your doctor ahead of time, let he or she know your concerns. Also, having someone there to constantly ask questions and advocate for you is very helpful. I was so out of it, that I was thankful my husband was so proactive. If your husband is not the type, then have a good friend or family member there to keep the staff on their toes.

Good luck to you, I am sure everything will go great and you will soon have a beautiful new baby! :)

I dont know personally, but I do know MANY women who have had uneventful c-sections. My friend's was run of the mill, and an overall enjoyable experience. Though its the birth she wanted to begin with. She had probably seen too many horrible things on TV and in the movies, plus horror stories too-honest women told her, and was so terrified she was beyond relieved when things didnt go well and it ended up being a c-sect.

If you are really nervous, I know someone who had a rough time the first time and so with her second she chose to be completely knocked out. She said she was so unaware of what was happening with baby #1 that she didnt think she was missing anything by being out for the actual surgery and just waking up to hold her baby when it was over. It went fine, she says it was MUCH better than her first one.

On the other hand, I've heard that the second time around is much easier because you know what to expect.

Lastly, and a minor point, there is still time to change your mind and go for a VBAC. Vag births differ greatly, being nature designed, while surgery is "by the books". You could have a timeline, meaning that you did NOT have along labor, but at some designated hour mark you went in for the c-sect. It can be up to YOU. My last one was 28 hours and while everything worked out, this time I'm being induced because we think it will go so fast I could have the baby in the back of the van! I like epidurals thank you! :-)

But most of all, dont fret. No matter what, chances are it will be ok. Surgery is not supposed to be a barrel of laughs, but designed to be a route doctors can use if things dont go safely, or in a manner comfortable to the mother.

I ended up having 2 unplanned C-sections. I was in labor for about 12 hours at home with my first before going to the doctor when I discovered he was breech, so they sent me in right away. With my second I wanted to try for a VBAC, but my water broke, we went to the hospital and this one was also butt first (even though at my doctor visit just 3 days before she said the baby was head down). I had two very successful C-sections with no complications. I didn't have too much time to worry about it because they both happened so quickly. I want to wish you luck and as you know the most important thing is a heathy baby and mommy and the doctors will do all they can for that outcome.

Yes, my first child was born by c-section because she was breech. The HMO I belonged to didn't want to do anything "drastic" as they called it (turning the baby, etc.) so I had the surgery. I was awake, and although I had the epidural, I can't believe people actually choose epidurals for uncomplicated childbirth. (But that's another story). I recovered fine but it was difficult to cough, laugh, hold the baby, etc. My second daughter was a VBAC and I it was a great experience. Now I did have the advantage of short labors (with my first daughter my water broke a week before my planned caesarean), so I didn't have to labor more than a few hours. I strongly, I mean strongly, urge you to consider being a VBAC. If you are that fearful of a c-section then don't subject yourself to it (unless of course you have no choice). The experience is like night and day. There are lots of support groups and you can even call or email me if you want to talk about it. Consider it!

I had a section with my second child. I had regular labor with my first and it was horrific! She got stuck and had they had to use vacuum and forceps and she has MANY problems now due to all the pressure on her head. We opted for a section th second time, b/c I was not about to go through that again. My section was perfect. My spinal was great, and the doc talked me through the whole procedure. And believe me, I was VERY nervous! I am sure everything will be fine. I suggest letting your doctor know your concerns and see what he recommends. Good luck!

Had my 2nd C-Section in 05/04. I had a problem with the anesthetic on BOTH. - I became very frantic as well and felt as if I had claustrophibia. BUT I had a GREAT Doctor and as soon a the panic came on ...... he injected some sort of drug that calmed me immediately.

I also KNEW that I was OK..... and yet had no control over the panic from the numbness. I would just be very upfront with your Doctor and the Anesthesiologist and let them know you may need an additional "magic pill".... in the IV!!

GOOD LUCK!! -

i had both of my kids by c-section. the first was not planned that way, the second was planned, however i went into labor earlier than the planned date. both times things went fine. no issues. the second time was even easier than the first. recovery of both went well. a year after the second c-section I had a hysterectomy through the same incision, with the epidural and that was extremely easy too. just talk things over with your doctor and perhaps you can meet with the anethesiologist ahead of time and talk about how you felt. that should ease your nerves.

Dear N N,

Can you ask to be put under anesthesia? That is what I did. Heck why go through labor and c-section. The down side is that I wasn't awake for a couple hours after the birth of my baby. You can always have someone tape the birth.

Best Wishes to you and your soon to be new baby!!!

I had two c-sections many years ago so I don't know if I can help you. I was out for both of my deliveries and afterwards I did not take anything for pain, and yes I breastfeed both babies til they were each 1 yrs old. I would never have had or even thought about a spinal, but to each their own. Just go with your gut!

My c-section was scheduled (son was breech) and while I resent the entire experience (I never went into labor) it DID make it easy to have things planned. I got a good night's sleep, was able to tell the baby when he was coming out, etc etc. Being well-rested and knowing what would happen definitely helped. YOu can also create a c-section birth plan, and I suggest you do so - to make sure you get the things you want. Go through it with your doctor or midwife BEFORE the big day and this will help too. I also spoke to the surgeon who would do mine ahead of time and that helped too. Make sure you ask for the things that are important to you - some rules in the hospital are bendable and some are not.

The other thing that really ehlped me was to channel all of the energy that I had been saving to get through labor and instead concentrate on helping my body heal quickly. Sounds corny, but I think it really helps. Good luck and congrats on your upcoming birth!

Hi NN,
I had my son by C-section almost 3 years ago and the surgery was quick and uneventful. I had the spinal, like you, but didn't experience any negative side effects from it. The whole surgery took about 30 minutes and my husband was able to sit by me through most of it. I had two doctors working on me and a host of nurses. Everyone was calm and efficient. I was very nervous going into the surgery because it is surgery, after all, but my doctor is fantastic and has been practicing for many years. His matter-of-fact demeanor really helped put me at ease. (he was talking about his golf game--I felt like I was on Seinfeld!) I'm hoping to have a VBAC when I have my second child, but we'll have to see (my first was breech). If I do have another C-section, I know that my doctor will do a good job. Side note: my mother had 5 C-sections and they were all uneventful. And a friend of mine had C-sections with both her children, also uneventful. I hope it helps to know that we're out there! I wish you a safe and easy delivery!

I had two c-sections, neither one planned. The first was an emergency with no labor, the second was going to be a VBAC but ended up another emergency c-section. With the second one, however, I was able to have an epidural and it was by far better than the first (no epidural). The one advantage you will have with a planned c-section is that the anesthesiologist (sp) will be able to take his/her time administering the epidural and can be sure that it is in the right place so as to not cause the same problem you had last time. Don't be afraid to explain the problem you had before so as to avoid it this time. Good luck and don't be afraid....it will all turn out ok!

My son was born April 21, 2007 by C-section. I was induced for 2 days before and my son decided he did not want to come down the birth canal! I was very scared and excited all at once, and it turned out to be fine! The only thing bad that happened to me was I threw up from the doc pushing on my stomach to get him out! Other than that, everything went smooth. I hope this eases your nerves. Good luck with number 2 and let us know how it went!

I have had 3! The first was scary because it was not planned and I was not expecting it. But I had no problems wih the other 2. It makes me sad I couldn't experience a 'normal' birth with my children, but I am just blessed to have 3 wonderful healthy children! I actually recovered quickly with the first 2 and my last one was a bit harder. I felt like I couldn't breathe at one point but that was my OB sitting on my chest trying to push my daughter down out of my ribs! They even had to use suction. I'm not telling you this to scare you, I just want you to be prepared for anything. Had I known all of that could happen, I wouldn't have been so scared! Ask your OB for some reassurance and communicate with them in the OR and I'm sure things will be great! Best of luck and let us know how things go!