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Childbirth/My second c-section

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Expert: - 10/16/2009


Question
I ended up having to have a  with my first pregnancy due to my narrow birth canal. I am now on my second pregnancy and my doctor went ahead and scheduled for me to have another cesarian this time. Last time I was in labor for two days before they decided to take my baby via c-section. I was just wondering what to expect this time. I know they won't induce me like they did last time, but Im just unclear on how this one will be. Will they just put me out and preform the cesarian or will I be awake like I was last time?

Answer
Krista,


You are never under general anesthesia for a c-section, unless it is a true emergency situation and both your lives are in imminent danger.  It's much too risky to be put to sleep.


If you're having a repeat c-section and not even thinking of attempting a VBAC, then you will just be given a date and time for the surgery.  Then you'll be prepped and receive an epidural or spinal anesthesia, just like last time, and then have the surgery.




Best,
Catherine

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Catherine Beier MS CBE

Expertise

I can provide evidence-based information and current research findings concerning childbirth and pregnancy. My specializations include natural childbirth, pregnancy and birth interventions, fetal positioning, labor induction, choosing a care provider, midwives, homebirth, unassisted birth, natural pain relief, medications in pregnancy and birth, informed consent, understanding the risks and benefits of childbirth choices, doulas, waterbirth, childbirth methods, childbirth education classes, cesarean section, and VBAC.

Experience

I have been a childbirth educator, mother, author, public speaker, researcher, and birth advocate for the past 9 years. I am also the author of Giving Birth Naturally, a site dedicated to natural childbirth and pregnancy information. I publish evidence-based articles on pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care, and post-partum care. I'm also a mother of three children, two daughters and one son all born naturally. To learn more about what normal birth looks like, view the natural childbirth video of my son being born at home unassisted.

Publications
My book, Birth Outside the Box, was published in 2007.

Education/Credentials
I hold a Master's degree in communication disorders with an emphasis in child development. I am also an independent childbirth educator.

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