As a first-time expecting mum you probably already experience a lot of anxiety. But what perhaps really worries you is what's to happen on D-day when you actually deliver your baby! Will your birth plan go as designed? Would you have to undergo a c-section? Will your baby come our healthy? There are many questions you need answers to.
But one question that often pops up is if an expecting mum will be strapped to the table for delivery. Women often wonder: Do I really need to be strapped during a cesarean delivery?
Before you freak out about being strapped, here's all that you need to know about such a procedure and why you should remain calm if ever it does happen.
Do I Need To Be Strapped Down While Giving Birth?
The answer is: yes and no. You won't always have to be tied down to the operation table during your delivery.
Although, there are some hospitals that would strap (read hold) you down during a c-section delivery. But this is more to restrain you to ensure that both you and your baby are safe throughout the operation.
Here are a few rare case in which you may be help down while you give birth:
1. To keep you from immediately reaching for your baby. You'll probably be ecstatic to finally see your new bundle of joy. But reaching over in excitement once the delivery is done will only contaminate your live wound and even hurt your baby. Strapping or holding your hands or arms could help ensure that freshly open incision on your body remains sterile.
Once everything is cleared out, you will be free to embrace your baby for the first time.
2. To ensure you are completely still during the surgery. You'll likely be awake during the entire procedure, so medical professionals might strap or hold you down to keep you from moving too much. This is to ensure there are no complications.
Some mummies have even said that they're body was convulsing too much during c-section which led to their arms, legs and chest tied down.
3. To prevent you from knocking over your IV cord in your arm.
If ever the situation does arise, it's important to know that the straps won't be that tight. Alternatively, if you're held by a medical professional, it will only be precautionary. This is just to prevent you from moving and possibly harming yourself or your baby during the delivery.
Other Facts About C-sections You Must Know
Whether you choose to stick to your birth plan or it changes, here's what to know about c-sections:
- For a clean procedure, your lower abdomen will be washed and maybe even shaved as well.
- Prepare to be given an anaesthetic. This will ensure you feel slight pressure instead of excruciating pain when the doctor makes an incision to your lower abdomen.
- A screen will be placed right in front of you to block your view.
- After the operation, your uterus and abdomen will be stitched back up. This may be done with either stainless-steel staples, dissolving sutures or non-absorbant sutures that can be removed after a few days.
- You might be prescribed an analgesic. This is typically used to help you cope with the discomfort that may come after a c-section delivery.
- A few days after being discharged, you'll be able to go back to your normal daily activities after four to six weeks the delivery.
Our recommendation is to not worry about being strapped or held during delivery. It may happen, if needed and you will have trained professionals who will assist you through the journey. Consult with your doctor and communicate these concerns clearly so you can be better prepared.
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