Gentle Cesarean: How to Have a More Natural C-Section
If you know you have to have a c-section but want a more "natural" experience, here's how to have a gentle cesarean.
Request an epidural or spinal block instead of general anesthesia. If mama cannot be conscious, the father should hold the baby skin-to-skin immediately after birth.
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Ask for a clear drape so that Mama can watch the baby lifted from her belly.
Do immediate skin to skin by placing the baby on mama's chest while mama's being sutured. The baby can even breastfeed immediately in the operating room.
Request a delay in cord clamping waiting until it stops pulsing.
Delay all usual post-birth procedures, like cleaning and weighing the baby, until parents are ready.
Allow a doula, grandparent, or friend to photograph or videotape the birth so parents can focus on bonding.
A gentle cesarean is a wonderful option for those who need a surgical birth.
