Whether you have been scheduled a c-section or you’re anticipating one, it can be a little overwhelming.
Especially if you’ve had already one and it wasn’t a good experience. Could have been an emergency one or something different. Whatever the case, it may have left you on edge a bit.
Thinking of labor and delivery may be the last thing you want to do because you’re probably scared to relive it or you’re afraid of the unknown of going through it.
Which btw is completely normal to experience these feelings and anxiety before a c-section.
I know the feeling of fear leading up to a c-section. I had an emergency one with my first. My second was scheduled. I was absolutely terrified. To the point of crying pretty much anytime anyone brought it up to me.
When I found out I was pregnant I already anticipated that I would be having another c-section. The fear I had of having to go through that again stole joy from my pregnancy. It was difficult for me to enjoy because I was so fixated on what I was going to have to go through again. I was stuck on THAT experience. Assuming it would be the exact same way. (note: emergency and scheduled really are completely different.)
I want you to know that I know how you’re feeling and I really hope this blog post can help you ease your mind and go into this procedure with a strong and courageous attitude!
Below is exactly what I did and I’m so happy I took the time to mentally prepare myself. I didn’t want my baby entering the world with a stressed mama and I wanted to embrace and be brave through this experience.
(If you have questions or concerns or just want to talk about how you’ve been feeling please don’t hesitate to contact me.)
A Guide To Mentally Preparing Yourself For A C-Section
(This was a repeat c-section for me. My first was an emergency and my second one was scheduled and what a completely different experience it was. I also healed way faster then with my first. I was still scared naturally ,however taking the time to mentally prepare myself helped me beyond measures. I truly hope what I did may help you in someway as well.)
- Listen To Soothing Music
Music is proven to calm down anxiety. What I did was I bought “soothing music” on iTunes. (The type of music you would hear while getting a massage.) I would go to sleep with it on a night because that was often the time my fears would really set it. I listened to this type of music a week prior of my scheduled c-section. I know it helped calming my nerves.
- Say Daily Affirmations
Affirmations are more powerful then you may believe. Saying affirmations truly helped me to overcome my fears and negative thoughts. Whenever I caught myself thinking the worst I would say or think to myself,
“I am strong and courageous. I am not afraid. I know God is with me.”
This is in reference to the scripture Joshua 1:9. I can’t even express how much power I would feel saying this often and how much peace it brought me.
- Read Positive Uplifting C-Sections Stories (They do exist)
When people hear “c-section” they often associate it with a negative experience. People will often give you a cringe type of look when you tell them you have a scheduled C-section or that you’ve had a C-section.
I want you to know there are some great, uplifting, positive stories out there. You just have to search them. These stories can provide some type of relief that your experience can be just as wonderful and positive as theirs.
- Express Your Concerns And Fears To Your Doctor
This is very important. My hope is that you trust and are very comfortable with your Doctor. Let her or him know how you have been feeling. They will do their absolute best to calm you and make this a very pleasant experience for you.
When I had my c-section I requested to have oxygen to keep me calm. I didn’t even end up using it because I was able to calm myself down mentally. I was so proud myself. My doctors and nurses were also extremely amazing and made me feel so safe and comfortable. I cannot thank them enough for going above and beyond for me.
- Talk About It
When I was able to talk about my delivery without crying I knew I was making progress. The more you actually talk about the procedure and recovery the more comfortable and confident you will be going in.
- Make A Mental Check List
I read a blog titled ‘What To Expect When Having A C-Section By An L&D Nurse’. Her blog literally walked me through exactly what I went through.
It helps knowing what to expect so you aren’t caught off guard by anything. So when we left in the morning I started checking off things in my head, I was somewhat a step ahead or already knew what the next step would be. I felt more in control of the situation.
(This is a glimpse of what I was checking off in my head. I made a checklist on my notes app.)
- Try To Have Your Procedure Scheduled In The Morning
The sooner the better. Statistically less complications happen in surgeries scheduled in the morning. This will provide a little peace of mind for you if you can be scheduled in the morning.
Also the Doctors and Nurses are just starting their day. They are alert and hopefully well rested to care for you as their first patient.
- Pray (Ask For Prayers)/Meditate
Pray, pray, pray. I am a believer in prayers and I know God hears them. This is where your faith and trust is truly strengthened.
And it is OKAY to ask for prayers. It’s more then okay.
- Distract Yourself
When you feel your mind being directed back to your fears DISTRACT YOURSELF. Worrying truly isn’t going to do anything but steal joy from enjoying your days and nights.
What I did was play and entertain my other two daughters, read, and wrote blogs. It kept me busy and mind off other stuff.
- Trust And Think About Meeting Your Baby
Put all your focus on meeting your little miracle. Express your gratitude and try your best to just enjoy the moment and all the little details. You will be so happy you did.
It will all be worth it Mama. Before you know you will be holding your sweet baby. You got this.
I know you can do this. I am praying for you and I wish you a happy and healthy delivery. As well as a super fast recovery.
The Wild Gems 