A Guide to a Family Centered C-Section
What is a Family Centered C-section?
A family centered c-section focuses on honoring the mother by making the experience as close to a vaginal delivery as possible. Also known as a gentle c-section, the goal of this approach should be to focus on immediate family bonding and respecting the mother’s wishes. A family centered c-section can look different for each family depending on what the desires of your heart are.
How to Achieve a Family Centered Cesarean
Some women initially plan for a vaginal delivery however, sometimes things don’t always go the way we imagined. To avoid added stress we suggest discussing this with your partner and coming up with a plan should you find yourself being rushed in for a c-section. It can be helpful to write this out and have a document ready to present to the doctor.
Remember these nurses and doctors work for you. Essentially you are paying them for a service and it is their duty to respect you and your wishes as long as it does not interfere with the health of you and your baby.
Be sure to discuss your desires with your midwife or OBGYN prior to delivery and ensure they understand and respect your goals.
Having a doula can be a great addition if you are a first time momma. They not only provide labor support but with the right person you can have an advocate there protecting you and your wishes. Giving birth can be a whirlwind experience filled with new feelings and emotions for both you and your partner. Having a neutral person there can be tremendously helpful in so many ways.
Things to Ask for When Planning a Family Centered C-section
A clear surgical drape that allows you to view the birth, or to drop the drape when baby is born
Music to listen to during the surgery, this can help calm your nerves
Have a nurse or doula take pictures
Immediate skin to skin for you and baby
Request baby’s assessments be done on your chest or while being held by your partner
Delayed cord clamping
Immediate breast-feeding if possible/desired
Benefits of a Family Centered C-section
Enhances bonding between mama and baby
Reduces stress for mom and baby
Regulates baby’s body temp and heart rate
Gives you a sense of empowerment and control
Creates a more satisfying birth experience
Sources: https://www.northfieldhospital.org/family-centered-cesarean-birth
Birth Plan example linked here. This can be tailored to fit your specific birth preferences.
