15/11/2025
Planning for a C-section? Here are 3 ways to prepare - physically, emotionally, and practically.
Whether your caesarean is elective or medically indicated, preparation can make a meaningful difference to both your birth experience and recovery.
🧠 1. Get Informed:
Understanding the procedure - including anaesthetic options, surgical steps, recovery timelines, and potential risks - helps reduce anxiety and fosters informed consent. It’s not just about reading Google articles. Take the time to ask your care team specific questions:
• What happens immediately after birth?
• Will skin-to-skin contact be possible?
• What kind of wound support or pain management will I need?
📝 2. Create a Personalised Birth Plan:
Yes, even for surgical births. Many hospitals and specialists now offer space for preferences — including maternal-assisted C-section, delayed cord clamping, music in theatre, support person protocols, or whether photos are allowed. These choices can help retain a sense of agency and emotional connection during a highly clinical process.
🧘♀️ 3. Consider Pelvic Floor Assessment - Pre + Post Birth:
It’s a myth that pelvic floor rehabilitation is only necessary after vaginal delivery. Pregnancy alone places sustained downward pressure on the pelvic floor, impacting bladder function, core strength, and long-term recovery. A women’s health physio can guide you through tailored pelvic floor exercises and help optimise your post-op healing.
If you’re pregnant and planning for birth later this year or early next, appointments are now open. We’d love to support you through the next chapter.
📍Melbourne OB-GYN Specialist
📅 Book via gracewomenshealth.com.au