How is pain managed after an elective C-section?

Your doctor will prescribe pain relievers like paracetamol and ibuprofen to manage pain after an elective C-section.

Can I have skin-to-skin contact and breastfeed right after an elective C-section?

Yes, most hospitals encourage immediate skin-to-skin contact and support early breastfeeding as long as the mother and baby are stable.

Can elective C-sections be scheduled before 39 weeks of pregnancy?

Elective C-sections are usually planned after 39 weeks to minimise breathing problems for the newborn. Still, they may be done earlier for specific medical reasons such as maternal or foetal health concerns.

Elective C-Section Surgery: What Expecting Mothers Need to Know

Mostly, when people hear the words C-section, they think of emergencies or complications. However, not all C-sections take place suddenly. Many C-sections are planned ahead of time. This is called an elective C-section.

Unfortunately, there are still many misconceptions around it. Some people may say it’s the “easy way out,” but that’s far from true. An elective C-section is a major surgery, and the decision is usually made for medical safety, sometimes for the mother, sometimes for the baby, and sometimes for both.

What Is an Elective C-Section?

An elective C-section is a planned operation where your baby is delivered through a cut in your abdomen (tummy) and womb before labour begins.

It’s different from an emergency C-section, which is done quickly if unexpected problems arise during pregnancy or labour. With an elective C-section, you and your doctor decide in advance, so there’s more time to prepare.

Common Reasons for Choosing an Elective C-Section

Your doctor may suggest a planned C-section for medical reasons such as:

The baby’s position is breech (bottom first) or lying sideways.
Placenta previa occurs when the placenta blocks the birth passage.
Multiple pregnancies, especially if the first child isn’t head-down.
Previous C-section or complicated vaginal birth.
Health concerns including heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and infections.

Sometimes, moms also choose a C-section for personal or emotional reasons, such as fear of labour pain or wanting more control over the birth process. Both choices and medical reasons are valid and should be respected.

How Is an Elective C-Section Planned?

An elective C-section is usually scheduled around the 39th week of pregnancy, unless there is a medical reason to do it earlier.
Before the surgery, some checks are done. These include blood tests, scans, and a review of your overall health.
In preparation, you will be asked to stop eating and drinking about six hours before the procedure. Your hospital bag should also be packed with all the essentials you will need during your stay. Sometimes, medicines are given before surgery to reduce stomach acid or prevent infection.
Finally, your doctor will explain the procedure and possible risks. You will also be asked to sign a consent form before moving ahead with the surgery.

The Procedure: Step by Step

Most elective C-sections are done under spinal or epidural anaesthesia. This means you’ll be awake but won’t feel any pain. A small horizontal cut is then made just above the bikini line, and the doctor gently lifts your baby out.
If your baby is healthy, you can hold them skin-to-skin right away. A midwife will also guide you on early breastfeeding. Once the delivery is complete, the womb and skin are stitched, usually with dissolvable stitches. The entire procedure usually takes about 30–60 minutes.

Recovery After an Elective C-Section

Recovering from a C-section takes time, care, and patience. While every mother’s experience is different, here are some key things to expect during the recovery period:

Hospital stay: 2–4 days, depending on how you feel.
Pain management: Pain relief tablets will be given. Start gentle movements early to aid recovery.
Bleeding: Vaginal bleeding may last for 2–4 weeks.
At home care: -Avoid lifting heavy items (other than your baby) for 6 weeks.-Keep your wound clean and dry.-Rest well, eat nutritious meals, and stay hydrated.
Healing time: Most women feel much better in around 6 weeks, but full recovery may take up to 3 months.

Risks and Complications of Elective C-Section

Like any surgery, a C-section carries risks. These include:

For the mother: Bleeding, infection, blood clots, bladder injury, or longer recovery.
For the baby: Breathing difficulties at birth and minor accidental scratches.
Future pregnancies: Higher chances of placenta problems or needing another C-section.

Note: These risks are rare, but your doctor will explain them before surgery.
It is normal for moms-to-be to have mixed feelings about an elective C-section. However, choosing an elective C-section is a deeply personal decision that deserves understanding and support. Every birth journey is different. Respecting and supporting these choices helps the mother build a positive birth experience and emotional recovery. Open conversations with doctors and family, as well as planning for self-care and support, can make a real difference in healing and adjusting during the early days of motherhood.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on What is an elective C-section?

How is pain managed after an elective C-section?
Your doctor will prescribe pain relievers like paracetamol and ibuprofen to manage pain after an elective C-section.
Can I have skin-to-skin contact and breastfeed right after an elective C-section?
Yes, most hospitals encourage immediate skin-to-skin contact and support early breastfeeding as long as the mother and baby are stable.
Can elective C-sections be scheduled before 39 weeks of pregnancy?
Elective C-sections are usually planned after 39 weeks to minimise breathing problems for the newborn. Still, they may be done earlier for specific medical reasons such as maternal or foetal health concerns.