C section

You’re not being silly! It is so daunting and it is a major surgery. I don’t mean that to scare you but that your feelings are so rational!
I had an elective with my first and the actual procedure itself was the easiest part. I found the bit before and waiting for your spinal to be the most daunting part. When they’re actually operating, baby is quickly with you and you are so focused on them, you switch off from everything else.
You can also do things like have your own playlist which can help you relax in theatre

It is daunting. I had a planned c se too for my firsr and I agree with Emily the set up is the most intense bit of them doing your spinal and getting you good to go. But once I was lying down ready baby was in my arms within 15 minutes it was so fast ! Takes a while after of them sewing you up but I don’t even really remember that time. My poor husband cried the whole time

which is totally normal. The team I had were amazing, it goes oddly fast and you have baby with you so soon you almost don’t notice the rest of it xx

I’m terrified for the operation.
I’ve heard of ladies (including my friend) who could feel them cutting in… my friend did get put to sleep when that happened.
I’m terrified for that long needle to go into my back.
I’m terrified for the recovery; sneezing, coughing and laughing will be horrendous…

I really hope baby girl arrives before so I can have a natural labour but I’m also so tired, I’m not sure I have the energy or strength left in me now.

I think it’s totally normal to be nervous (so am I!) and I reckon the waiting for it is probably the worst part. Everyone I’ve spoken to who’s had an elective C says it was the absolute best choice for them and that the actual op is so smooth. I’m also told they’re very very careful about making sure you can’t feel anything before they start, and the anaesthetist should be right there by your head in case anything feels off.

Our midwife has recommended making a birth playlist that they can play in theatre, and thinking about any things that might calm you down on the day (eye mask, partner doing head massage, aromatherapy, meditation etc).