Cesarean and Breastfeeding...

Hi M. H

I'm the mother of 3 cesarean births. Usually what happens is right after the birth of the little precious one they will get the baby all cleaned up and weighted and wraped they then show you your precious little one. They usually don't place the baby on your chest because they are putting all of your insides back into your body. After they finish sewing you up you go into recover to get over the Anesthesia. The baby is then brought to you for his or her 1st feeding, which is rough because the breastfeeding causes your Uterus to contract. I will be praying for your baby to turn around, if not you will be happy and a little sore. I hope this helps.

I had a c-section after 30 hours of labor and still wanted to breast feed immediately. The nurse in the recovery room was adamant that my baby had to go up to the nursery. She said that I could not breast feed because I had just had a c-section. Thankfully my husband heard this and found my doctor. He told my doctor that the nurse was refusing to let me breast feed. The doctor must have given the nurse a "talking to" because I was immediately given my daughter. She latched on no problem. My advice is to make sure your doctor knows that you want to breast feed and that he/she will go to bat for you if the nurses say no. If you feel up to it, a c-section is no reason to prevent you from breast feeding immediately.

It is not easy to accept the change in birth plan but as you said you are figuring that part out. Breastfeeding was encouraged right away and it seems that the hospital I was at recently encouraged it more than they did seven years ago when I had my first. So, hopefully hospitals and nurses are all on board with encouraging breastfeeding and not pushing the bottle. The baby was given to me right away and then was with me in recovery. But because of the morphine my husband or my mother had to be in recovery with me so that the baby could stay since I was drowsy. Other than that and the surgery my experience with the baby was very similar to my vaginal birth.

I have two children, 12 and 2. My 12yr old I was able to give birth natural, my 2yr old I had to have emergency cesarean. They gave her to me right away for breast feeding. I believe we were apart for maybe 30 min. if that. I know that they had to take her to the nursery to run the standard test. But while I was in recovery they brought her to me. And I am pretty sure it was only 30min probably less and as soon as they gave her to me I started with breast feeding. It might depend on the hospital you should check with them or at least tell them what you want.

Hi! Both my daughters were C-section births and they were both placed on my chest (after getting wrapped up) immediately after they came out. I was able to breastfeed after recovery time (2hours), basically after the anesthesia wore off and I was able to sit up. I don't believe there were any issues with bonding at all! Good luck and enjoy!

Hi M.,
I had a cesarean birth just 6 months ago and had the same concerns you did. They didn't put him on my chest right away because they had to sew me up, but after they checked him out (he was four weeks early) they wrapped him up and brought him over to show me. Then they took him to oury recovery room while they finished with me. This didn't take long - maybe another 20 minutes and then I was in my room holding him and attempting that first breast-feed. I wish I could've held him immediately, too. But I don't think missing out on the immediate bonding made much of a difference. Besides, he was all cleaned up by that time, too! Hope this helps and good luck!

I don't know about c-sec., I had all 3 births at home, naturally, but I can tell you that my first child was feet first up until the last 2 weeks of pregnancy. My mid wife had me doing some gentle yoga...cat/ cows, squating, etc. Rub your belly alot and talk to your baby, reassure her/him that everything is well and that it is time for them to turn around. Good luck and I hope you find all the joys there is to be had birthing and breast-feeding...it truely is a gift!

Hi M.,

Just be thankful that it will be a planned cesarean. Having an emergency cesarean is scary.

I wasn't allowed to breastfeed right away, and I wasn't able to hold the baby right away. However, my husband was able to cut the umbilical cord.

I wouldn't worry too much about the bonding because you will get plenty of time to bond later. You have an extra day or two in the hospital. As tired as you may be, do not put your baby in the nursery as it can affect your breastfeeding efforts.

Good luck!
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I am the mother of a beautiful 3 month old daughter. I had to have a c-section because she was breach. But we didn't miss out on any bonding. As soon as she was born, they layed her on my upper chest/neck until we were wheeled to recovery where I spent 2 hours doing skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding. By the time I got to my room, she was ready from the nursery and we spent 4 days together, every minute - I never let her go! We didn't miss out on anything...

Hi M.,
I'm not sure where you are delivering but I delivered at Saddleback Memorial in Laguna Hills. 16 hrs after my water broke at home and stalling during transition at 8 cm 100% effaced and -1 station I was given a c-section. My husband was present in the or (after they were done prep'ing me). As soon as my son was delivered, he was lifted up over the curtian and my husband was able to take photos of him. The doctor left the cord long enough so my husband was still able to cut it. I wasn't able to have the baby put on my chest after delivery, but my husband followed the baby to the corner of the room and stayed with him while they finished working on me.
The best part was that my husband took tons of pictures with the digital camera and was running back and forth in the or to show me what he looked like. Once he was swalled the nurse brought him over and I was able to see and kiss him.
When my surgery was complete, my husband went with our son to the recovery room and I followed quickly behind. As soon as I was able to sit slightly up in bed, the nurse helped me put my son in the football hold and I was able to nurse. This happen in a matter of minutes after getting back to our room.
I had a spinal and an epi. Neither of which affected my ability to nurse. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. ____@____.com

Dear M.,
Greetings!!!

I'd love for you to know that there is still time for your baby to turn and it's even possible to deliver a breech baby vaginally. And, of course, if it comes down to you truly needing a C~Sec...then you need a C~Sec.

One of my midwives who helped deliver my dazzling son, Dylan Orion, recommended that you call Geri Ryan (one of the best midwives in San Diego) or her daughter Heather LeMaster (who is a doula) as they have experience with C~Secs, breech babies and bonding.

Here's their data:

http://www.a-better-birth.com

Geri: ###-###-####
____@____.com

Heather: ###-###-####
____@____.com

Also, I highly suggest contacting the La Leche League. They are AMAZING! http://www.llli.org//

Hope this helps! And, congratulations on your soon to be arrival!

With love,
L. (Mama to 23 week old old Dylan Orion) : )))

My son was born in 2005 I choose to have a cesarean and I loved it. I have many friends who encouraged me to and if I ever have another baby I will do it again. The process started at 9am and by 9:13am he was on my chest. I was in recovery for about an hour and he was breast feeding within another hour. I was holding him on chest with lots of pillows all around me. The next day was painfull to get up and walk around but by the end of the day and some pain medicine i was ok. I know not everyone's is as easy as mine, with no complications but I loved it. I do not feel like I missed anything about the birthing process. Congrats~

My son(now 11)was also breech and I had a cesarean. He was born at 12:42am and the nurse was in my room about 4:30/ 5:00 am & she had me attempt to breast feed him.

My son was a VERY lazy baby & didn't show any interest for 17 hours after he was born. He did just fine...

-J.

they brought my son to me right away and of course you can breast feed right awayit has no effect unless you dont feel up to it
R.

I have had 2 c - section births and was able to breastfeed right after the put me in recovery (about 30 mins). They keep the baby in the operating room with you while they close you up. You will be fine. And I have heard of babies turning right at the last minute too. Good luck and congratulations!

I have had 2 c-sections and both times they laid the baby down next to my face so that I could see them. I still was able to have that "oh, my God!" moment when I realized what actually just happened....I have a new baby! I was able to breastfeed as soon as they patched me up and cleaned up the baby. During this time, the baby gets to spend some quality time with the father while they both wait to see you. It's not as bad as you think...I was so scared the first time because it wasn't planned....but the second time I was like "go ahead and get that baby out!" If it makes you feel any better, it's A LOT less traumatic for both you and the baby: no pushing, no pain, no screaming and no squeezing out of a little hole for the baby. It does, however, take a bit longer to heal for you (to be honest, I'd rather be sore on my abdomen than down there anyway!). Don't worry, you'll be fine!

Hi M.
I had a cesarean birth with my son in January 2006. he was also breached. the spinal they gave me did not take on my left side. So they gave me an epdiural also and I was numb from the neck down. my son was born at 1:28 pm they did not place my son on my chest right after he was born, they just showed him to me and my husband got to go with him to the nursery. I went to recovery and i was in my room by 3:00 my husnad brought our son to me right after I was in the room I got to try ato brestfeed around 4:00.I had the samed mixed fellings that you do but I don't feel like I missed any of the bonding experence at all. So I hope that this has helped and if you have any other questions you can e-mail me at ____@____.com
Have a great day.

I see you have a lot of responses, hope mine is helpful... I've had 2 C sections and tried breastfeeding both times. With the first one I was not successful, they would not bring me my daughter until I could wiggle my toes and that took over 4 hours. I truely believe this was the main source of the problem, she was starving, and kept falling asleep on the breast. By the next morning she'd lost too much weight and they made us give her a bottle. It just got intimidating after every nursing consultant had tried to help me unsuccessfully. Anyhow, my 2nd experience was much better because I knew what to expect. They will not set the baby on you after birth, the sewing you back up takes much longer than getting the baby out, they give you a min to say hi and will take the baby off for a bath. As long as you are persistent (nicely) with the nurses about how you need your baby asap to start nursing it should be fine. Have a plan with your husband or whoever will be with you to really help you get the baby, etc - you'll be a bit out of it. I had no problems the second time around - my son nursed like a champ for almost a year. Best of Luck to you!! Kudos for choosing to nourish your baby in the very best way!!!
M.

Good morning M.,
I went through the same thing with my first two and felt the same way. Don't worry, just share these concerns with your Doctor and I'm sure they will bring your baby ASAP.
They didn't put my babies on me because they had to finish sewing me up, so they took my babies to do all the test on them.
My husband went with our children each time, so glad because the first time I got sick afterwards and got the shakes really bad so they gave me some kind of medicine that knocked me out for a while. But one thing I'll always remember seeing is my husband standing next to a little plastic crib as the rolled me by the room they were in and he was holding a little hand bent down talking to her. I don't remember how much time went by till Rachel came into my arms, but she had her first feeding from my breast and was so hungry there was no problem.
Wow now that in it's self is the most amazing thing. My girls are 21 and 19 now, to beautiful young women, my son believe it or not I had 8 years later and was able to have him vaginally.
Please don't worry M., they will bring your daughter to you as soon as possible and it is something you will never forget, the sight,little sounds and the smell ( oh they smell so... good-fresh) and you will realize the bond was never broken.
Because now she is cradled in your arms and not in your womb.

I think it depends on your doctor and the hospital protocol. When I had my c-section almost 4 weeks ago, there was no room to put the baby on my chest directly after birth. There were drapes and my arms were to my side. The positive thing was that I was able to breastfeed my baby after I left recovery, about 2 hours. I got to see my baby right after he was born, but since I had to be closed up, I sent my husband with the baby and they were able to bond in the time that I wasn't able to. Best of luck to you.

Good for you for being concerned! I had an emergency cesarean birth and was actually put under a general(it was too late in labor for the epidural to work correctly). I did not get to see my daughter until she was 2 hours old. The minute I saw her the bond was there and she latched on right away and did wonderfully breastfeeding. She is now 11 months and still loves to be breastfed.
If you have to have the cesarean, make sure you let the nurses and doctor know that you want you want your baby put on your chest immediately after birth. They should do this for you. Also, be strong about your desire to breastfeed your baby. I had to be very strong about it because they wanted to give my daughter formula to get her blood sugar up. This is your birth and your baby so let your voice be heard. If you have any problems breastfeeding, ask the hospital to send in a lactation consultant and she should help you get it going well.
I can tell that you are going to be a fabulous mama to this baby. I am sure that you already have a bond as you carry in your womb and the bond will become even stronger once she is born.
Please let me know if you have any other questions about this-I am a total breastfeeding advocate!
Peace & Blessings to you & your family

M., Who ever told you that having a c-section would lessen
your bonding with your child needs to be hit on the head. I've Had 3 c-sections, and everyone of them the bonding was even more intence. My First 2 sections were emergancy, but my third was easy and he was placed on my chest for a couple of minutes.

I had an unscheduled c-section and was encouraged to breastfeed immediately. I really don't feel that a natural delivery would have strengthened the "bond" with my daughter. I'm very happy with the way everything turned out. As far as the baby on the chest, I was almost completely out by the time she was born (up for 24 hours prior), so they might have done that had I requested.
It sounds like you think this is not the best way to give birth, but really, it's a totally normal experience. Good luck.

Hi M.,
First of all, there is still time for the baby to turn, so one thing that I would personally do is to visualize the baby turning. I find visualization very powerful.
Also, a doula might be of value for you. I remember during my Bradley classes, hearing stories of the doula helping to turn the baby. Also, they are really great to have as an advocate to help get your birth plan carried out as much as possible.
And - if you don't already have one - do write up a birth plan and go over it with your doctor. Make sure to let the doctor know ahead of time how important the bonding process is to you. I would imagine that he'd probably understand, but in the even that he doesn't, just reiterate that it really does matter and ask for his cooperation in facilitating this for you.
I did have a crash c-section after 37 hours of labor. I think I had to wait just a little bit before I could hold my son. I believe it was because they were still stitching me up and they didn't want me to drop him. They did put him on his nursery table right next to me though, and we laid there and stared at each other. It was still beautiful, and my son and I are beautifully bonded, and it all worked out.
You'll be giving your baby so much loving and warmth, that I know you'll both be fine. The very idea that you are concerned about this speaks volumes about the level of loving care that you'll be giving your precious little one.
God Bless you and your little one. Enjoy!
Love,
M.

Hello M.,

My name is E. and I was in the same situation with my first son. ALthough he was "frank breech" (essentially hugging his legs with his feet by his head) I too had to come to terms with the idea of a cesarean.

With my first son due to the c-section and me being doped up and in recovery while they took care of washing him up ect.. It was probably 1 hour 1 1/2 before I was settled in the room and was able to breastfeed. I think the main issue is that the hospital at the time just was not equipped to take care of the mom and the baby in recovery at the same time!

However with my second son it was an entirely different story. The moment he was out and cleaned up he was placed by my head (your chest is still covered due to surgery) so I was able to "hold" him right away and get that "skin on skin" contact that is sooooo important!!! In fact they let me hold him before they even weighed him. THen while they were stitching me back up my husband was allowed to hold him the WHOLE TIME in the surgery room. It was maybe 10-15 minutes after he was born that I was back in the recovery room and he started to breastfeed.

I too was concerned about "BONDING' with him right away and I am sooooo grateful for being able to do that with my second son so soon after the birth.

I hope this helps.
Feel free to e-mail me if you have anymore questions.
E. K
____@____.com

I had two c-sections, bonded great with both babies and breastfed both past 2 years old. That being said, no, they will not put the baby to your breast after delivery. But don't worry about that, they will take care of baby and take care of you and depending on your hospital, I gave birth at Scripps in Encinitas where they are VERY pro breastfeeding so as soon as I was in recovery, which is anywhere from 30min - 1.5hours (usually longer with 2nd, 3rd, etc.. c-sections to clean up the scar tissue, etc..) anwyay, as soon as I was in recovery my nurse put my baby to breast and got them feeding. Both times I was pretty out of it, but lucky for me I got great help and support from the hospital. With both of my kids, my husband held them from delivery until I was brought in to the recovery room. I had no complications and again, incredible support at the hospital, which I'm sure had a lot to do with my breastfeeding success.

I highly recommend if you haven't already, to tour your hospital and find out their protocol. That way, if something isn't what you wish you can make sure you have a birth plan.

My first was frank breech so I understand what you are going through. Don't worry about it, everything will be fine (-:

Having a planned c-section can delay your milk coming in, seek help from a lactation consultant as soon as possible if needed. With my first, my milk came in approx. 6 days after birth - I did not have to give any formula, she nursed on demand and received the good stuff - colostrum (spelling). With my second, I went through labor and my milk came in within 24 hours.

Congratulations!
M.

Hello M.~

My name is V. I my son Joseph is 7 weeks old and I had a C-section and am breastfeeding. He was not put on my chest immediately but my spouse was able to bring him up to me immediately. While I was in recovery for 1 1/2 hours Joseph was with his father the entire time bonding and as soon as I came out of recovery my spouse brought him to me. I started to breastfeed and bond. I too was concerned about the bonding. However, I would like to assure you that Joseph and I are bonded.
May God bless you and your baby! Enjoy every second of him because the time flys by so fast!!! I can't believe my Joseph is 7 weeks old.

Blessing Mommy to be!

In my experience, there is no loss of immediate bonding with a baby born by c-section. I have had two, and neither were by choice. My son was also breech and was born 2 1/2 weeks early due to my fluid levels being low, and had to remain in the warmer for a few hours. I think it was 2-3 hours before I was able to breastfeed him because of the warmer (details are a little foggy), but with my daughter I was able to nurse within the hour. As soon as that baby comes out, you are bonded no matter what. Your chest will be covered, though, and I'm not sure if they will put the baby on your chest since they need to get back to the business of fixing you all up. Good luck! It's not fun to hear that you need a c-section, especially when you really want a vaginal birth like I did, but it's a pretty easy way to have a baby. I hope it goes well for you! Nursing will probably be hard at first, but stick with it and it will pay off in leaps and bounds!
J.

My daughter was not born in CA but she was C-section at 38 weeks. My son was born first and was vaginal. I had an easier time with my daughter and was able to bond and breastfeed her sooner than my son. They brought my daughter to me in recovery within an hour of her birth, where I was rolled onto my side to breast feed. She was placed right next to me on the bed. Actually for your first child, learning to breast feed this way is easier, in my opinion. Even if you aren't able to breast feed right away, relax, it will come and being tense about the situation only makes learning to breast feed more difficult.

Hi M.!!
I had a c-section 3 months ago. I had no problems at all. I was able to see my baby girl, cry and all the things. I am already jogging since she was 2 months old. Yes, natural is better but in emergency case c-section is great. I breast feed her and no problem. I had a boy 13 years ago(c-section) I breast fed him for 2 years. It is a little unconfortable to hear women that have normal delivery acting like they are better for that. I am so glad that I had c-section and believe me I did NOT miss a thing. I had friends that had normal delivery and they end up not even breast feeding because it hurts too much. Everything is in your mind. Enjoy what life brings to you. Enjoy your baby.

I had a C-sect with my twins...as well as my singleton and with all 3 girls I was able to breastfeed. I bonded with all of them...after you go to recovery they will bring the baby to you and you will immediately be able to put the baby to your breast. The reason they cannot do it right after they take the baby is that the MD has to sew you up. Don't worry...the baby will be fine and you will be as well.

hi i had c-section, i saw my son for a few seconds. but they had to get him checked out, but when i was no longer numb they brought him to the room. i tried to breast feed him but he wouldn't latch on and when he did i had no milk. so i pumped not much. good luck

Coming from a different perspective, I had a natural birth, but right after delivering, you're disoriented and exhausted. I was given my baby right away, but I was still in shock. I breastfed right away, and I know they say to try to get them to nurse immediately, but a few hours of recovery time will not make or break breastfeeding, especially if you tell the hospital staff that you don't want to bottlefeed and bring the baby to you when he/she seems hungry. I do remember my son being supplemented formula at the hospital, but he was strictly breastfed until over a year.
Don't worry about immediate bonding, it will definitely happen in the future years with your baby!

When I had my c-section, they cleaned the baby off a little bit, weighed him, wrapped him in a blanket and gave him to me to hold while the doctors finished the surgery. It all happened so fast it was fine.
Then they took him to the nursery for a bath while I went to recovery. My husband went with the baby. We met up again in our room and that is when I breast fed him. It all worked out fine. Don't worry!!

I had a c-section and as soon as they wheeled me into recovery they brought my daughter in and I breastfed! I didn't feel at all like I missed out on the bonding!

Hi M.,

I had 2 c-sections. The first one was an emergency at 32 weeks. My daughter went straight to the preemie ward and I couldn't even see her in person until about 4 days later. My milk hadn't come in so I had to pump once I got home and would take the milk to the hospital for the 5 weeks she was there. I tried to breast feed her when she came home but she didn't take to it too well. Second child was also born C-Section and while I didn't have him placed on my chest right away, I did get to breast feed right away and hold him as long as I wanted, unless they were checking my "vitals". Long story short, I do not feel that I missed any bonding with either of them. I love them so much and I know that when I held them as babies (they are 11 and 4 now) they could feel the love I had/have for them. My advice, don't worry about what you won't be able to do with/for them, concentrate on every moment you can hold them, breast feed (if they take to it - which they usually do), and look into their eyes. They can feel your love in your voice, your body language, your eyes. Have fun and enjoy every moment.

as soon as i got done with the 3 hours of recovery from having my daughter c-section i was able to nurse her after that so it won't interfere with anything

I haven't had a cesarean but I do know that there are naturalistic ways of turning the baby around. Certain chiropractors and/or acuprssurists have been trained how to do this!!! Call some numbers in your local area and see if they are trained in this area - ours was in Whittier, California so if you're in that area somewhere let me know and i can give you the number to call. It has worked for three people i know personally!!!!!

I recently had a c-section with my son 5 months ago and I with in minutes of entering the recovery room they had my son on my chest and I was latching him on for his first breastfeeding experience. I would recommend that you talk to the hospital to see what their protocal is. This was a new process because when I had my daughter at the same hospital 2 years earlier they did not do this, so this time around it was a great experience. Best of luck.

I ended up in an emergency c-section. They cleaned him up first, but I was allowed to "hold" him on my chest afterwards, but they would not let me have him in my room for three hours. He was able to breast feed beautifully afterwards. My husband stayed with our son the whole time he was away from me, so there was never an attempt to give him formula. My son and husband have a great bond to this day and I am sure that it is because of those three hours they spent together.
I have heard that you can talk to your doctor ahead of time and arrange to have the baby brought in sooner, but I did not think to ask for that once they told me I had to have a section.
You can e-mail me through my profile if you want to chat.
~J.

M.,
Quite a dilemma, have you tried chiropractic care? Dr. Carolyn Griffin is in Santa Clarita (off Soledad Cyn and Whites Cyn) has had success using a very gentle method called hte Webster technique. Are you in S.C? Her prices are amazingly low and she takes insurance. I'd get in there quickly because the sooner you see her, the better the odds. Her office # is ###-###-####, I was just in there today getting my baby, toddler, and myself adjusted. It's really good to do that before and after delivery because of all the relaxin in your system that can get you out of alignment. Especially good for the baby, even more necessary if he/she is a c-sxn.
As far as nursing goes, it really depends on the baby's state as to how soon you can nurse, but be sure to put your wishes in your birth plan and bring it with a basket of treats to keep the staff as friendly toward your birth wishes as possible if the baby doesn't turn. Also you could consider hiring a doula to help be your advocate if you are feeling like you'd want that support. As a doula, I know of babies who've been put on their moms chest following the cesarian, but they made their desires clear to the doctor and have Ob's who were supportive of this (and also didn't have complications in their newborn).

Best Wishes,
J.

I had twins by C-section and they had difficulty breathing when they were first born. They were born at 10:00 p.m. on a Friday night and I did not get to nurse them for the first time until Sunday morning at 8:00 a.m. They were not put on my chest after birth. I was only able to see them for a few moments and then I was whisked off to the recovery room and they were taken to a special room in the hospital nursery where they were hooked up to breathing machines and then feeding tubes the next day. I successfully nursed them for 12 months. The key for me was getting amazing help from the lactation consultants in the hospital. I made it very clear to the nurses that I didn't want my boys to get bottles, pacifiers or formula. I did end up having to use the SNS (supplemental nursing system) for a few weeks to get them to keep their weight up. I pumped so they got a double dose of breast milk when they nursed...some from me and some from the tubes that were strapped to my breasts from the SNS. If you are determined to breastfeed your daughter, I believe you can be successful even if you have a C-section. Just keep putting her to the breast as soon as the medical staff will let you. If she has trouble latching, just have the hospital's lactation consultant watch you nurse so she can coach you until you and the baby are both comfortable. I have heard many stories about mom's not being successful nursing after C-sections and it's usually because the nurses give the babies bottles to feed them formula and then the babies get nipple confusion. The SNS is a great alternative to bottles if your baby isn't gaining the weight she needs to after birth or if nursing alone is taking a little time to get rolling. You can even put formula in the SNS system if you aren't able to get enough milk from pumping. Just remember that nursing is a supply and demand system. The more you nurse and pump, the more your body will supply. Keep that in mind if the hospital staff tries to tell you that you aren't producing enough milk. I feel so blessed that the lactation consultants and the pediatrician on call in the hospital suggested the SNS because I have many friends who were not told about that option after they delivered and then ended up having to give their babies formula to supplement the breast milk. Then their babies ended up having nipple confusion and eventually preferred a bottle to nursing. I wish you the best of luck. I'm sure everything will go well and your daughter will be able to nurse successfully.

I had a c-section 10 months ago... It wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be...but I did miss out on having my daughter put on my chest right after birth. Right after she was born, my husband brought her over to me to see her, but I was unable to hold her. While they were sewing me up, the nurse had my daughter, measuring her, weighing, etc. Then I immediately went to the recovery room, while they took her to the nursery. We never said anything to anyone, so maybe that was part of it, had we said something prior to the c-section, things might have been different... so make sure you talk to the nurses and doctors prior to... Good LUCK!!!!

Both my c-sections were scheduled due to placenta previa complications. I had an epdidural the first time and a spinal the second. They also tend to strap your arms down for the procedure but the anaestheologist did release one arm each time and I was able to have my boys on my chest as they sewed me up. The boys were taken to be cleaned up (Daddy went with them) while I was transferred to the recovery area. Each time they were back to me within an hour and I was able to breastfeed immediately (yes in the recovery room). I had no problem breastfeeding the traditional way and found the football hold difficult. Certainly no bonding or breastfeeding issues on either delivery. I felt the spinal was a better option of the two as I recovered faster, able to walk sooner and felt better in general with the spinal. I'll warn you though I have a friend who also had the two types and she preffered the epidural so it is individual.
Good luck

Sorry for the delay! I had a C-section with Asa as well. I have been breastfeeding for 6 months as of this Saturday. I was worried about the bonding issue as well. There was never a problem. When Asa was born he was a bit jaundiced, so he had to sit under the UV lamp for an hour right after he was born. The lamp was bedside and the entire family was still able to enjoy him.

I held him as soon as he got out of the lamp. Since I was wheeled from operating room, I wasn't able to hold him but my husband did.

Directly after birth, they take them to the warmer, clean them up, commute their Apgar score, and THEN they show you the most beautiful bundle ever. You hear them cry and it just warms your heart.

A C-section is so strange, because essentially you are making an appointment to have your baby. You walk in and 45 minutes later, you are a mom.

Breastfeeding did take a bit of work in the beginning. We finally got it down about a week later and it has been smooth sailing since.

A good pump will be your saving grace.

I felt a little sad in the beginning that I missed out on the "miracle of childbirth", but then I looked at it this way...other babies fight to get here, and ours were lifted into the world.

Besides, they don't have the bruising and they don't look as beat-up as vaginal babies.:)

Hopefully this helps. If you would like to email me more questions, do so at ____@____.com. I will be more than happy to help with anything you need. I believe that I was so successful breastfeeding because I have a lot of support.

Have a great day!

I had an emergency c, and no you can't put the baby on your chest directly after. It isn't feasible on the operation table, plus in my case the drugs in my system were making me shake & shiver very hard. it would have been unsafe. I was able to breast-feed 2 hours later, after my body calmed down and it went wonderfully. I have had no problems with feeding nor bonding. Everything is wonderful and the first moment with her was amazing! Every moment since has been amazing as well.

Unfortunately no they can not place your baby on your chest right after birth, since there will be a curtain sort of speak where you will not be able to see nothing but the curtain in front of you. The curtain will lay from your chest and up. They will bring your baby to you to see her. AS far as breatfeeding, a cesarean does not intefere with breast feeding. It can be a bit painful since the baby will start off by sitting on your belly. But you can always use lots of pillows for the comfort of your belly. Good luck!

First of all, Congratulations M.! You're in for an amazing and wonderful journey with your little one. I am a first time mom and my baby was delivered by c-section last December. I too was very disappointed when I was told that I could not have a traditional birth without great risk. It took me a few days to reconcile my feelings of disappointment. However, my husband helped me to see that I needed to do what was the best for both the baby and myself. (My son was over 40 weeks and estimated at more than 10 lbs.)

I chose to be awake during the procedure and highly recommend it. I know that it sounds creepy, but it really isn't. You don't have to see anything you don't want to. My anesthesiologist was fabulous and I didn't even know the procedure had started! My son came out crying and it was the most wonderful sound in the world. They showed him to me and then took him to clean him, etc. My husband was able to go with the baby as they did this. They then immediately brought my son to me and laid him on my chest. My husband and I then had time to hold him, touch him, and talk. It was wonderful and the C-section was already a dim memory. Next they take him to the nursery and I asked my husband to go with him while I went to recovery. My husband took video and lots of pictures of my son in the nursery so that I could see him and hear him. Once I was in my postpartum room they brought him to me and the nurse helped me to immediately begin nursing him. Our hospital encouraged keeping the baby in the room and our son only left our side to have his tests and vitals taken in the nursery.

The C-section had absolutely no negative impact on our bonding with our son or his ability to breastfeed. Of course I wanted to have the experience of giving birth to my son, but now the way he was delivered is a footnote compared to the joy we have every day. The most important thing we realized is to bring him into the world in the way that is the safest and healthiest for him.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or want to know more about the procedure and experience. Best wishes for a happy and healthy birth.

I was able to touch my daughter briefly while the nurse held her. It was such an emotional and amazing experience to finally see our little one, and to touch her!! I would have loved to have held her on my chest, and had that experience, but the most important thing of all was that she was healthy, and I was able to hear her cry and be a part of Gods miracle. When I had my cesarean, the next thing the doctors did was to start getting me all sewn up and ready to get back to my room so I could see my child. I think it was a couple of hours before I got back to my room, because the medication had to kind of wear off, and they had to make sure I was stable and ready. In the meantime though, the nurses were taking care of my child, weighing, measuring, a little prick in the heel to test the blood, and so on. This was the part that my husband got to see up close, as well as cut the umbilical cord. Then when our daughter and I were both ready, she was brought in to me and we had the most amazing bonding experience that I could ever have had. We started breastfeeding right away, and we took to it like we had done it before! First time for me too! :) She stayed in my room the entire time, except for tests, or things like that. She is 3 now, and we have a wonderful relationship, so close & loving. Remember, you are already bonding with your child, she is hearing your voice, your heartbeat, your laughter and so on. So no matter what happens in your experience, she is yours and you are hers forever. :)

Hi M.,

Congrats! I ended up having to have a c-section. In regards to bonding... it totally still happens. I believe you can request to have the baby placed on your chest- depends on the hospital. It is also possible to begin breastfeeding immediately- again, depends on the hospital.I waited until I was in my room so that it could be just the two of us and Daddy of course, it made it that much more special for all of us. Good Luck!

Hi,
I had both my kids at 37 weeks via C-section. Both kids were giving to me within minutes. They were already wrapped up in a blanket. Once my milk came in I started to breast feed, which was a couple of hours. Good luck and enjoy the experience. K

I've had two c-sections. Both were pretty much fine. It's just the getting up afterwards that is diffucult at first. As far as breastfeeding is concerned, you should be able to after you get out of the recovery room which is about an hour after birth. With my son, they didn't give him any formula or anything until he met me in the room after I was out of recovery and that is when I immediately started to breastfeed. As far as them putting your baby on your chest after delivery, it's not really possible. Even if they did, you wouldn't be able to see him/her because of the shroud they put up directly in front of your face. I wouldn't worry too much about the bonding time. You will get it.

As another thought, it is also different by hospital. My SIL had a c-section and the baby went with her to recovery. My hospital didn't have that. So every hopital is different too. You may want to talk with your doctor and see what he/she says.

Hi, I have had 3 c-sections. They are not as bad as people say. I dont think you lose the bonding time. the baby is only shown to you then off they go to have all their tests done while you are being put back together. They do give you a quick peek at the baby. I breast fed all 3 right after i could feel my feet. If you request they do not give a bottle to the baby first they will respect that wish if you only wany the baby to have you. I think people mistake how any women feel after birth when it comes to c-sections. All you want to do is be with your child so I know that part is hard but you will have alot alot alot of time with that baby trust me 30-45 mins is nothing. You will feel like you were never apart.

I did feel a bit deprived after my daughter was born cesarean. I was so eager to see her, and you cannot move while you're still in OR- the drugs knocked out my whole body except my head. My husband held her, while I tried to move my head enough to get a look at her. After I was stitched- maybe 15 mins?- I got to hold her (next to me, not on chest- you want a stable spot, cuz the arms still aren't working well). Then with all the stuff going on, I finally got to try breastfeeding after 2 hours or so.

I know how hard it is to have your plans change- my needing a cesarean was a big disappointment. But trust that it will work out. Any bonding that is delayed due to a cesarean will not affect the long term.

At the Hospital I was in they are pretty good about giving you the baby pretty quickly. They didnt give my boys to me immediately, but as soon as I was in recovery they gave them to me and I was able to start breastfeeding right away. It would be nice to have had them immediately, but the good thing is that they do all the "stuff" they need to do and don't have to take them away for that, plus immediately after they are still working on you for a few minutes and you probly wont be quite ready, plus it gives dad a chance to hold and kind of take an active role. Mine babies did just fine!!! Good luck and even though Cesarean isn't what I would have chosen either ( I had to have 3) the most important thing is that she arrives safely and will be yours forever even if it takes an extra 10/15( I am not sure of the actual time, so dont "quote me" on that) minutes of waiting. Much love to you and your new little girl.

my daughter was what they call 'frank breech' & they took her by c-section at 38 wks. she was held (by someone else) close to my face immediately after her birth, but was not brought into my room until almost 5 hrs later. the reasons for this were because they still have to 'sew you up', which takes about 20 mins, so you cant have her on your chest during that time & also, when a baby is born c-section, they require just a little more observation & caretaking in the nursery. its because their lungs need a bit of suctioning, etc since they dont get the 'work out' being pushed through the birthing canal. dont worry, though. i breastfed my girl as soon as they brought her into my room & its been going well ever since. babies are so tired after the birth anyway, that they mostly sleep - not eat. you will be fine! my advice to you is - even if YOU cant be with her during those first few moments/hours, MAKE SURE your partner or someone you trust stays with her/follows her into the nursery & reports back to you on her condition as much as possible. that helped me to remain calm & not wonder what was going on with her while she was away from me.

Sorry to hear that you are having a cesarean done. I had an emergency C-section with my daughter, from my understanding it depends on if there are any other complications at birth. With my daughter it was her heart, therefore I only got to see her, I could not touch her or nurse her right away, they did allow me to go into the Nicu to visit her. I did not get my daughter for 12 hrs after birth. HOWEVER, let them know you are going to be nursing her most hospitals will allow you to pump so they can feed them. I had an immediate bond with my daughter the first time I held her. While she was resting I was resting waiting for her.. My husband was allowed in and able to pics of the c-section so we did not get miss anything during her birth. Again, I think it also depends on if there is anything else wrong with the baby... Congratulations on your bundle of joy they are the best.... God bless and good luck!!!

I had a c-section after 34 hours of labor. They did put her on my chest shortly after they got her out. I breastfed my daughter as soon as I came out of recovery. As far as the bonding thing is concerned, try not to worry too much about it. I know how hard it is as a new mom, but everyone bonds with their babies at different times. It took me a while to really fall in love with my daughter. I was having some post-partum depression and I thought there was something wrong with me because I wasn't bonding. Then, after about three weeks, I fell head over heals in love with her. So my best advice would be just be kind to yourself in this process and trust that no matter how this goes down, you will bond with your child. And it's all so totally worth it. We are trying to have another one, and the fact that I am willing to do that again, is a true testament to the depth of the love we feel for our children. :) Enjoy this journey. It's really quite extraordinary.

I had a c-section due to a high risk pregnancy. I was not able to hold my son right away. They allowed my husband to hold him, I got a quick kiss and off he went. I did not see him again until about 5 hours later because of recovery and it was a busy baby night. I Missed out on him being placed on my chest right away and allowed to breastfeed.It is important to have skin on skin bonding. It was always in my plan to breastfeed so when they brought him to me 5 hours later I wanted to but could not even keep my eyes open. It was such a long day. I was brought in to be induced and ended up with a c-section ( not what I wanted ). I didn't get to breastfeed until the next day. So I would suggest you let your OB know you would like the baby to be placed on you after birth or at least after they clean her up. It is a small area around your chest when you have a c-section due to all the things going on,on the table. Even if you can't see her right away it will be ok, she will still latch on even if given formula in the nursery. You will be tired so just see how you feel Good luck!!

Hi M.

I had an emergency C-Section at 41 weeks and although at the time I was scared to death. I have to say, it was a breeze. To be honest, it felt like someone was massaging my stomach. The worst part was only that I shook a lot as the medication wore off, but that is the same for a lot of women who have epidurals anyway.

My son's heart rate dipped early in labor so they rushed a cesarean rather than take any chances. I got to see him but no he was not placed on my chest directly after birth. I had to go into a recovery room before I was taken to my room and he was brought to me for breastfeeding and bonding. During pregnancy the thought of that was horrifying but now it seems so minimal as my son is 5 months, still breastfeeding and incredibly attached to me. He prefers me above anyone else and lights up when he sees me - without having the first moments of his life on his momma's chest. I think those moments can be precious for sure, but what really matters is your connection throughout the remainder of their life. You have a lifetime to connect and bond with your baby. As far as breastfeeding goes, it was a bit of a challenge as it was my first child and first attempt. I would say it was by far the most difficult aspect about being a new mom, but I asked for help from the nurses almost every feeding until I felt like we were getting the hang of it. I called in the lactation consultant while I was still in the hospital and went to the breastfeeding center a few times after he was born to see how we were doing. Now breastfeeding is a breeze.

It doesn't matter HOW your daughter is born, only that you love and care for her to the best of your ability. :) You'll do great!

Hi M.,
I had my twins 3 years ago by c-section they were five weeks early, and I breast fed them until they were 6 months old. Unfortunately my c-section experience wasn't the best. I could feel the pain after they took the babies out, so they had to knock me out. I got to see them and take a few pictures before they did it, but after that I didn't see my babies until the next day. I didn't nurse my daughter until she was a week old, and that was only one time at the hospital. I didn't nurse my son until the day I took him home which was three weeks after he was born. The nursing staff brought me a pump the day after my delivery so I could get my milk going, and then we bottle fed the babies in the NICU. I am sure that my experience was not the "normal," but I guess what I am getting at is don't worry if you don't get to nurse and bond right away, as long as you pump to keep your milk up you can nurse as soon as you feel up to it.
I do know of other women that have been able to brest feed their babies in the recovery room, or right after getting to their regular room.
Also, I felt kind of isolated when my babies were in the NICU, but when I got them home I really bonded with them. Most babies born through c-section have to go to the NICU for a little while to monitor their breathing, but you should be able to have him or her back pretty soon if there are no problems.
I would ask your doctor or the hospital staff what their policy is on nursing in the delivery/ operating room, and if they require the NICU for all c-section babies. Don't stress about the delivery and nursing it will all work out fine. Do pack more clothes because you could be in the hospital for a few more days than you would with a vaginal delivery. Lastly, make sure you have some help when you get home! While recovering from the c-section, and learning how to brestfeed and taking care of a new born it is very tiring. Good Luck to you and your baby!

L.

Hi M.,

My son who is 2 years and 7 months now was also breech. I was 41 when I had him. Other than being breeched I didn't have any problems at all during the pregnancy. He never gave me an ounce of pain. I always told the doctor that I wanted to give birth naturally. Alas, the last checked up on the 8th months he still wouldn't come down to the birth canal - never did. SO the doctor told me that she would help me turn Jordan toward the birth canal and if he still wouldn't turn then she had to do c-sec. To anticipate the c-sec I got an epidural shot an hour before entering the operating room. She turned Jordan 4 times easily but as soon as he was in the birth canal his heart stopped so right away they did c-sec.
I held my soon in my arms the next day (when they saw that the drug already wore off almost completely) and tried to nurse him. I had a complete anasthesia since the epidural never kicked in when needed. It was weird for both me and Jordan because we both didn't know what he were supposed to be doing ( he's my first baby). With practice we became natural toward the end of the second day and he got less infamil (formula) as he drank more and more from me and I started producing milk more and more.
I don't remember the surgery ever bothered me excessively during the feeding time at the hospital nor at home. We stayed in the hospital for 5 days. I already walked around the hospital on the second day - you have to move around to heal faster. On the 7th day (Monday) I went back to work and never stopped since :-)
I breastfed Jordan for 13 months when he had to go to France for 3 months with his father. When he came back from France he totally forgot about my breasts. I kept trying giving them but he kept playing with my nipples with his fingers instead of opening his mouth. Oh well!
He's now a big boy

Hi M.. I had an unplanned C-section and my baby boy is 6 months now. I got to see the nurses give him the initial clean up and then they placed him on my chest for a little while right in the delivery/operating room. It was great! Just to be sure, tell the doctors that is what you want. While I was in recovery they cleaned him up, checked him out and measured him. It was probably 2 - 3 hours after the C-section when they brought him to my room and I was able to breast feed him right away. Not sure if that timing is any different than a normal delivery but it was fine for me. And the little guy caught on to the breast feeding right away, we are quite bonded and has had no problems since. BEST of luck with everything! You'll do just fine.

I delivered my beautiful daughter by ceasaren. I gave birth at UCSD medical center in Hillcrest. They strongly believe in bonding with your child the minute he or she is out. I was able to have her placed on my chest the minute she came out and was able to breastfeed as soon as they closed me up and I was in recovery. She never left my side the whole time I was admitted. Only maybe 1 hour a day for early morning stats and her bath(only if I wanted them to do it). It was my chance to get a little sleep. Good luck and congratulations!!!!

I had my daughter Sabrina by emergency cesarean almost 11 years ago, but it seems like yesterday. I was not able to have her placed on my chest immediately after birth, but I do not think that has had any bearing at all on our bonding. We are extremely close. I am not sure if anything has changed, but just to let you know, after they let me hold her and kiss her I had to go to a recovery room without her. But during that time Sabrina was with Daddy and all the family. Just try to remember that bonding is a life long process.

I didn't have a c-section but my daughter was breech and I got her flipped around by using the inversion techniques on http://www.spinningbabies.com/ you still have 3 weeks until you are full term so you might be able to flip her around! :) Good luck either way, I'm sure you'll do great!!

My first child was also breech ,so I ended up having a c-section . My thoughts are just as long as the baby&mommy are safe and healthy is what is most important , you'll have a lifetime of bonding to do it never ends. I have had 2 c-sections and each time they did put the baby on my chest to see them . Then I was able to nurse them about 3 or 4 hours after ,since they were being checked and tested and I was in recovery. With each child I have bonded immediately and have continued to bond with them daily as they grow. Enjoy EVERY moment it goes soo fast. Congratulations on your new one .

You won't miss out on anything. Bonding has nothing to do with how the baby is born, just how you deal with it. I had emergency C-sections with both my kids and the only reason that I couldn't breastfeed right away was because they were premature and didn't know how to suck. As long as everything is all right with you and the baby, there is no reason that things can't progress normally. I held both my kids as soon as the cord was cut, although it wasn't for very long since they had to be taken to the NICU. Personally, I didn't have a problem with the C-section. The babies also look more normal after a C-section (no "cone head" from a vaginal birth).

I am a 33 yr old mother of 3 beautiful boys! I had each one of them by cesarean section. It was not easy, but well worth it. The recovery time post delivery lasted on average of 2 hours. When in the operating room they did allow my husband to bring the baby to me for awhile. However eventually they need to bring the baby to the nursery and you to the recovery room. Per my hospital they will allow you to breastfeed as soon as you reach the mother and baby unit/rooms and you feel up to it.

M.,

I just had my second son via c section. I was completely conscious for the event and both of my sons were placed on my chest and I was encouraged to breast feed as soon as I was able too. The first few times I fed my son it was a little uncomfortable but then I got used to it again, but having a c section will inhibit you from bonding with your new baby the way you want too. Congrats on the new little and good luck!!

S. M

Hi, M.,

I've had two c-sections. Both times my baby was put on my chest immediately after birth and both times I was allowed to breastfeed as soon as I was wheeled out of the operating room, approx. 20 minutes after my baby was born. Don't fret about not bonding with your baby. (I think that many mothers these days are overly worried about their babies not bonding with them because they were physically separated from them for a few minutes or hours. It takes much more than that to break the emotional bond between woman and baby.) Focus on taking care of yourself. Be gentle to your body for at least a few months, ask for help from others, and if you have trouble comfortably lifting yourself out of bed and significant other is not around to help you (as mine was not due to two-month long business trips), consider renting a trapeze from a medical supply company. The gentler you are to yourself, the sooner you will heal and the sooner you can comfortably do all types of activities with your baby.

Congratulations and good luck,
L. E

I have had 2 cesareans- soon to have a third. The docotors did not put my daughters on my chest right away. Because there is a "curtain" up (you really don't want to see them removing your insides) you do miss out on the immediate- but once they clean up your baby and are sewing you back up, they will bring the baby around for you to see. You can't hold her right away because your arms are straped down. Sounds terrible, I know, but you'll be okay. When you are wheeled into recovery, they will bring the baby to you and you will nurse right away. Sorry I didn't make it sound more glamorous, but your still getting the end result. good luck and congratulations.

Hi. I had my baby via c-section. They gave him to me right after the sewed me up and checked him out, probably 30 minutes after he was born.

I had a c-section for both of my pregnancies (one was slightly premature twins). In both cases, I had preeclampsia and was on magnesium sulfate. At the hospital where I was, I was not permitted to breastfeed for 24 hours after ceasing the magnesium sulfate. For me, this was nearly two days. In all cases, my children latched successfully from the beginning. Well, the twins had to wait awhile to be strong enough to nurse, but they were great at it when finally able to nurse. In the meantime, all were given formula. This never resulted in nipple confusion for them. Ideally, it would have been nice to begin the nursing relationship immediately, but things worked out fine in spite of the wait. I believe had I not been on the magnesium sulfate, I would have been able to nurse when I left recovery. I would suggest talking to your doctor about these concerns so that he/she can tell you what to expect at the particular place you are delivering.

My babies were not placed directly on my chest after birth. My full-term singleton was held by my husband up to my face and I was able to caress him before he was taken to the nursery. I was able to see my 35 week old twins in the same way, but for less time as they needed to go to the NICU. It would have been special to have the babies directly on my chest and to nurse them immediately, but not being able to do this did not effect my bonding with them in any way. They knew their mom, even though they had to wait a bit for me.

Best of luck. I hope your baby manages to move and you have the birth plan you originally envisioned.

I had to have a Cesarean with both my pregnancies.
After my time in "recovery"...about 1 hour, (each person recovers differently), they brought my baby to me to nurse. The nurses will help you position the baby and make sure all is well. Right after the surgery, the nurse brought my baby to me so I could see him, then they cleaned up baby, did the measurements etc.
It should be fine, express your desire to breastfeed as soon as you can... so the Doctor & hospital staff is aware of it.
As for bonding... you will not miss out... as soon as your baby is brought to you, he/she will know Mommy and will naturally latch on to nurse. :) It will be fine. :)
As you recover, they will have the baby in the nursery and bring him/her to you to nurse... sometimes (depending on your and baby's condition), they will put him/her in a portable baby bassinette and the baby can stay with you in your room.
At least this is what happened in my case. Take care,
~Susan
www.cafepress.com/littlegoogoo

you are in luck! A planned c-section is way better than an emergency one! I had both, and with the planned c-section, I was able to hold the baby (carry her out of the operating room) and breastfeed immediately. Assert your right to do those things.....make it known to your doc and the nurses before delivery and your bonding experience will be a satisfying one.

I have had 2 c-sections and I was able to feed both babies within 1 hour after surgery.
Right after the birth, I was put in a room to recover for about 45 minutes. During that time, my baby was given a bath, and tested and all the other things they do. Then they brought him in and I was able to try to feed him. (I just had my son 5 months ago).
They did not put him on my chest right after. I don't think I would have been able to hold him anyway because I was shaky. But the nurse did bring him to me right away so I could look at him & touch him. Good luck!!! Having a c-section really was not bad at all for me.

hi M., i had a cesarean last december and my baby was not put on my chest after birth, i saw him being born and the nurse put him right by my side when i was able to say a few words to him, it was great because he stopped crying when he heard my voice and then she took him to another room to clean him up. i was able to breastfeed him when i was moved to the same room that he was, about 30 minutes later.

Congratulations on the impending birth of your baby girl! The Moms here have given you WONDERFUL advice already, so I will just have to agree and tell you my little bit! lol
I have had 3 sections and breast fed all of them. They will not place the baby directly to your chest because you will still be open and they are only half done with your surgery once she's out. She will be brought to you while you're in the recovery room though. You can try to put her to your breast immediately at this time. It may or may not work depending on how long it's been and if she's still awake.
You will not miss out on any bonding M.. I promise! She's been inside your womb for 9 months and will spend the rest of her life with you. A few hours cannot and WILL not affect your relationship with your child.
I cannot stress enough for you NOT to worry. My children breast fed for 9, 15 and 44 months respectively and they were all sections.
Best of luck to you.

L.

Hi M.,

I had 3 c-sections & they want you to start breastfeeding immediately after birth because that's the only way your milk will begin to come in. Instead of putting the baby directly across you, you will find it easier to latch the baby on using the football hold. Just ask your nurse and they should be able to help you. Trust me, the bonding is still there so don't worry about that! ;) Good luck!

I did not plan on having a cesarean, but had some immediate problems on the day that led to the cesarean birth of my now 10 month old son, who is happy, healthy and still breastfeeding with a vengence.

I had an untypical situation but I'm sharing it with the intention of letting you know with a little persistence it can work beautifully. I always had planned on giving breastfeeding a good shot. I will have to say that I didn't get the immediate bond until about an hour after his birth, due to out situation. And then it was a struggle as he had such a problem sucking, latching, falling asleep. Everyday in the hospital I had a lactation nurse trying to help us, giving us every tip in the book to try and make it work. They were even at a loss for getting him to nurse. It was also very hard to pick him up and get myself comfortable after the surgery. But we kept on trying. At home, our pedatrician suggested supplementing formula and we did one evening, which led to his first ambulance ride. Conclusion was that I had been bleeding at the nipple and he had ingested it and was now throwing up blood. Talk about a fright. I'm not telling you any of this to scare you...just to let you know that we are still breastfeeding and it did work out! I wasn't able to breastfeed directly for 1 1/2 weeks and was on the verge of giving up. I thought that he would get so used to the bottle there would be no way he would breastfeed now. But one day I said enough of the pumping (i had to pump to watch the milk coming out of me), the bottles, the formula mixing and I just toughed it out and nursed him as he needed it. I didn't get a lot of sleep for about a week and then miraculously we got it. It took a lot of persistence that I am so happy that we got through. Tough as it was at the time, I am so thankful for my time breastfeeding with my son. And now I can't keep him away from the breast sometimes : )

I wish you the best of luck with your c-section & new baby girl!!!!!

Hi my name is C. and I am from Long Beach Ca.
With my C Section, my baby girl was given to me right away. They do take them fast but that is because they need to make sure YOU are doing alright and THE BABY is great also! Thats a good thing! I nursed right away with my child. I wouldnt let them do it any other way! Remember its your choice how your birth goes even if you have to have a C Section. Talk to your Doctor let him/her know your concerns. Tell him/her what you want and what will be done after baby comes. Your choice and feelings are best for you and your new born! Make sure your spouse/partner understands also! All will be great , I am sure of it! Think positive and remember to do things for the best of your health and your new baby!
Best of Luck,

C.

I had a c-section and held my son (and breastfed) 3 hours after delivery...I was wondering if you have had chiropractic treatments at all during your pregnancy. I live in Long Beach and there is a chiropractor here who specializes in pre-natal and family chiropractic. I know she has had some success with babys turning before delivery, but, in all honesty, I don't know all the details. I can give you her name and number if you are interested. R.

Just want to add that you should check out ICAN's website (stands for Int'l Cesarean Awareness Network) to help answer some of your questions:
www.ican-online.org

Also, check out La Leche Leage, as someone already posted a link to.
You can have a successful breastfeeding relationship after a cesarean. You also have other options than scheduled c-section, if you're willing to look into them at this point in the pregnancy.
I had my first via cesarean (second was a VBAC) and we didn't bf until 2 hours after (he went to NICU for an hour) and no, he was not placed directly on my chest, although those procedures can vary greatly from hospital to hospital and doctor to doctor. I did get to nuzzle and kiss him while being stitched up, as the nurse held him close to me for a few minutes.
Just express your desires and concerns to the staff you're with. Hopefully they'll listen to you. You have rights. Good luck in whatever you decide.
~N.

Dr. Taylor at South End Racquet has a non-painful holistic way of helping turn the baby if you are interested in trying one more thing. I saw him throughout my pregnancy and he is wonderful. He is a chiropractor by training but does much more than just adjustments. I'm sure he would talk to you about it.

When I had my son, c-section was emergency. My contractions had quit, not that I had many to begin with, and my water had been broken for 10 hours. I said if they had to do it, I wanted to hold him before he was taken to the nursery. I did get to hold him immediately--he was wrapped, but not cleaned off, and my husband went with him to the nursery. I was in surgery for stitches another 30 minutes, then recovery about 90 min. As soon as I arrived in my room, I was able to try nursing him. I was so hopped up on drugs, however, that I don't remember a lot of it. And it was midnight, after 30+ hours of this, so you can imagine how tired I was. Since it sounds like yours will be scheduled, things should be easier. We had no bonding issues at all. Hope that helps!

one thing- make sure you let your doctor and nurses know that you want the baby to stay with you. they will want to take the baby out of the room for you to rest-- but I wouldn't let them.. they may try to tell you it is for the best, but I was never comfortable with my child leaving my sight in the hospital, so they never did. i think you will actually get more rest knowing your child is with you than somewhere else in hospital being cared for by someone else. of course, this may not be possible if you or the baby needs any special care, but be sure to let them know you plan to breastfeed so they are not giving your baby unwanted formula and bottles. i hope everything goes smoothly for you! my girlfriend's baby turned on its own at the last minute, so don't give up hope!

I had a Cesarean and they can not put the baby on you directly after birth, but they will show the baby to you. Once you go into the recovery room, they will bring the baby to you and you can start nursing and bonding with your child, just make sure you let them know that is what you want to do.

D. W.

Hey M., I had to do the same. Unplanned C-Section and it took me a while to come to terms with it as well. I really wanted to go natural and have the baby put on me and nurse right away. Didn't exactly go like that. I was slightly out of it during the surgery so they just brought him to me so I could look at him. I wasn't able to start nursing right away because my milk didn't come in til about 4 days later. So we were on formula til then. I tried to breastfeed many times and it just didn't work for me. He wasn't a good latcher and was too long to do the football hold (I think your only option because of the incision). So I pumped for 5 months and fed him that way. Honestly whatever you decide, do whats right for you!! For me I feel like I read too many books so I was so disappointed that things didn't go the way they "beautifully" describe them. And the reality is, you will have plenty of time to bond so don't get too stressed if it doesn't happen that way in the hospital. It'll be great don't worry! : )

Hi M....I had a c-section back in December when my twin boys were delivered. They did not put them on my chest, but they did show them to me before they took them back to the nursery. They were put in the room with me about 10 minutes after I arrived and I was able to breastfeed immediately. I would talk with your doctor about wanting the baby to be put on your chest and see what he/she has to say about it...however you will be in an operating room and there will be a sheet that will block your view of the surgery and it may not be as comfortable as you would like. Its something worth asking about though.

M.,

My first child was born at 37 weeks (I had severe preterm labor from 22 weeks on), c-section and breech. I was so sick from the sedative they gave me (without asking if I wanted it) during the c-section all I could do for the first 10 hours after I was born was lay there with my eyes closed because the room was spinning so hard. So I didn't even touch my son until he was about 12 hours old and he was give a bottle by my MIL while I was "out" without anyone asking me. All that said, he still nursed like a champ until he was 2 years old and we are bonded like crazy (he's 4.5 now and I also have a 17 month old that was born VBAC - vaginal birth after c-section).

I think to a huge extend that situations are what you make them. A c-section isn't my idea of a good time but you can work around it and it won't prevent you from bonding with your child and it shouldn't prevent you from breastfeeding.

Good luck and congratulations! I hope your birth experience is very positive. Keep in mind that starting your breast feeding experience is usually rough no matter how the birth goes. There is a real learning curve for both you and the baby. If you have trouble, get a lactation consultant sooner rather than later. Just because it is natural doesn't mean it is easy. But most things that are worthwhile aren't necessarily easy.

:-)T.

Hi M.- Please do not let people scare you regarding the c-section. My daughter also was breach and refused to move! At 37 weeks, they tried to turn her, but found that I had too little amniotic fluid, so they decided to do the c-section right then! Best thing ever- and here is why. No pushing, no contractions and no pain of labor whatsoever. My daughter was born, and was immediately put on my chest while they sewed me up (sounds weird- but you won't feel a thing). Before I went into recovery, they asked if I wanted to breastfeed. The nurses are usually very pro- breastfeeding and want to do everything they can to help you to bond immediately with your child. Your stay in the hospital is extended because of the surgery, and it is wonderful to take advantage of all of the help while you regain your energy and strength. I had a very positive experience with the c-section, and I am sure you will also. Incidentally, my daughter is now 5 years old- and we could not be closer!

Hi M.,
I had my twins by c-section. After being in recovery for 2 hours - I was taken to my room and Katelyn was brought to me to nurse (Madelyn was still in the nursery for observation). I simply put a pillow on my side and put her on top of the pillow to nurse her so she wouldn't be on my tummy. You'll be pretty swollen and you'll be feeling some pain from the surgery, so you definitely don't want to put the baby on you. Good Luck!

I had both my sons via cesarean birth. My experience with my second son (19 years ago) was wonderful. He was placed on my chest right away and when I went into the recovery area, he went with me. I nursed him immediately and he stayed latched on (although asleep for most of it) for a good portion of the next 2 hours! The bonding was awesome! I don't know where you are delivering but I have nothing but great things to say about Scripps Hospital in La Jolla! I never felt that I had missed out on anything by not being able to deliver via vaginal birth. To this day, my sons and I share an extremely loving and healthy relationship!