Cesareans: Planned vs. Emergency

Tacoya Richard and Ryan Garretts moments after their daughter, Lily, was born by Gentle Cesarean.

Planning for and giving birth is usually a time of great joy and change, but it can also bring unexpected challenges and even stress. Most new mothers plan for a vaginal birth. But we know that birth is unpredictable and anything can happen. Do you know what your provider or hospital will do if your labor stalls? Are you aware of the medically necessary reasons to have a cesarean section? Do you have a plan in place if there is an emergency and you need a surgical birth?

The rates of c-sections have increased dramatically in the last 30 years. According to a 2021 study from the World Health Organization (WHO), cesarean section use continues to rise globally, accounting for more than 1 in 5 (21%) of all childbirths. This number is set to continue increasing over the coming decade, with nearly a third (29%) of all births likely to take place by cesarean section by 2030. While these numbers are alarming, the purpose of this article is to prepare for the event of a c-section.

So how can you be prepared if you need or want a c-section?

​First things first: create a plan. If you are planning for a cesarean, you will still need a birth plan. It should include things like your birth team/support, what you want the birth space (OR) to look, feel and smell like, preferences on whether staff can chat during the procedure, clear or blue curtain to see (or not see) baby being born and of course, your "Golden Hour" desires. In an emergency situation, a c-section will look and feel slightly different. You will still want to put a plan in place in case your baby needs to be for emergency reasons. However, there may be restrictions or limitations to your plan in this case. And your baby may need to be taken to the NICU as well.

The biggest differences in a planned cesarean versus and an emergency cesarean will be urgency and atmosphere. These two things make a big impact on the experience. Depending on where you birth, the protocols for either scenario may vary. It is always good to ask about both options ahead of birth to ease fears and concerns. Whether you want or need a cesarean birth, you should be prepared for the OR and your fourth trimester recovery. Hiring a doula is a great way to get educated and plan for either scenario as well as help you with postpartum recovery.

Planned or Non-Emergent:

• Slower pace
• Birth doula and/or partner present
• Spinal epidural and fully conscious
• Skin-to-skin in OR
• Birth photography
• Choice of delayed cord clamping, lowered curtain, music playing, gentle transition for baby

Emergency:

• Fast pace
• No doula support generally (partner may be present)
• ​Under general anesthesia and asleep
• Delayed skin-to-skin (once you wake up, partner may be able to)
• No photography
• Will miss the first moments of birth and bonding
• Baby may need to be taken to the NICU