Cesarean Delivery
How to Prepare for Your C-Section
Whether your C-section is planned or becomes necessary during labor, preparing for a cesarean delivery can help reduce stress and give you more confidence going into birth. At North Carolina OB/GYN & Midwifery, we support mothers through every step—from early planning to recovery—making sure you’re never alone in the process. Explore the following sections for valuable insights on what to expect with a cesarean delivery from our labor and delivery specialists.
Planned vs. Emergency C-Section: Know the Difference
A planned cesarean delivery is scheduled ahead of time, often due to medical reasons such as breech positioning, placenta previa, or previous C-sections. An emergency C-section may become necessary during labor if complications arise, like fetal distress or stalled labor.
Knowing the difference helps you stay mentally prepared and reduces anxiety if your birth plan changes. Either way, your OB/GYN and midwifery team will be by your side, guiding you through the safest path forward.
How to Prepare for a Scheduled Cesarean
If you already have a C-section date on the calendar, here’s how to prepare for a scheduled cesarean in a way that prioritizes both your physical and emotional well-being:
- Talk through your birth plan – Discuss preferences, questions, and possible contingencies with your care team. Schedule a birth plan consultation.
- Adjust medications if needed – Your provider may adjust prescriptions or supplements leading up to the surgery.
- Follow pre-surgery instructions – You may be asked to fast for several hours before your procedure or complete blood work in advance.
- Arrange postpartum help – Line up support for the first week or two of recovery.
What Happens During a Cesarean Section
Understanding what happens during a cesarean section can take away much of the fear. After anesthesia is administered (typically a spinal or epidural block), a small incision is made in the lower abdomen. The baby is delivered within minutes, and the rest of the time is spent closing the incision.
You’ll likely be awake and able to hold your baby shortly after delivery. A nurse or midwife may remain with you to provide comfort and guidance, especially if skin-to-skin contact is possible in the OR.
Your C-Section Hospital Checklist
When it comes to packing for a C-section birth, comfort is key. Here’s a short C-section hospital checklist to help:
- High-waisted underwear (to avoid your incision site)
- Loose, soft clothing
- Toiletries and lip balm
- Phone charger and extra-long cord
- Nursing pillow and feeding supplies
- Personal snacks and entertainment
- Baby clothes, swaddles, and car seat
Include anything that will make your hospital stay feel more like home.
C-Section Support from Midwives and OB/GYNs
At North Carolina OB/GYN & Midwifery, our care doesn’t stop at the procedure. C-section support from midwives includes education, emotional support, and recovery tips tailored to your individual needs.
Whether you’re having a repeat C-section or this is your first, our integrated approach ensures your birth experience is safe, personal, and empowering. Learn more about our obstetric care services, including childbirth support, cesarean delivery planning, and beyond.