Will I be awake during a C-section?

Yes, you'll be mostly awake and aware, but the lower half of your body won't feel anything because of the anaesthesia.

How long does it take to heal after a caesarean delivery?

You may begin to see improvement within 2 weeks, though it may take 6 weeks to recover fully.

Is feeling emotional normal after a C-section?

Of course. Hormonal changes and stress due to surgery can mess with your mood. Talking to family, partner, or your doctor about how you feel can really make a difference.

What You’ll Feel (and Not Feel) During a C-Section

Suppose you're preparing for a caesarean section. In that case, it's natural to have mixed emotions of nervousness about what's going to happen during delivery and relief that soon your baby will be in your arms. Many individuals fear uncertainty or pain, but knowing what to expect can make the journey better. Let's break down what happens during a C-section, so you know what to expect.

What is the Process of a Caesarean Section?

First, you’ll get an epidural or spinal anaesthesia. This will numb everything from your chest down, but you’ll still be awake. Here’s what you might usually feel:

A gentle poke or pressure when they give you anaesthesia in your back
A tingling or warm feeling when things go numb
You’ll slowly encounter less sensation from your chest downward

Once the anaesthesia becomes effective, the medical team will test the numbness before starting. You'll be awake but won't feel any real pain.

What to Expect During Surgery?

When the doctors do the C-section, you might feel some heaviness as your baby is born
When doctors assist with your childbirth, you might experience a sense of shock or fluctuation
You might feel a gentle heaviness in your chest, as if there's a push on your upper stomach

You won't feel the incision, pain, or stitching, but the internal movements signalling your baby's arrival.

Will You Feel Any Pain?

No, you shouldn't feel pain during a caesarean section. The anaesthesia ensures total numbness in your lower body. Nevertheless, you might feel:

Shivering or feeling cold is normal after anaesthesia
A sense of warmth and heaviness in your legs
Mild nausea for a temporary moment

If you feel any sudden pain or discomfort, immediately inform your doctor so they can adjust the anaesthesia.

What Will You Not Feel?

Here's what you won't feel during a C-section:

The incision being made
Any stitching sensations
Pain from the delivery of your baby or the placenta

What About Emotions During the Procedure?

Even though there's not much physical pain, your emotional waves could be high. It's absolutely okay to feel:

Excited about meeting your baby soon
Fear or anxiety of the unknown scenarios
Hearing your baby cry for the first time might bring tears to your eyes —happy ones

Your feelings might change fast, and that’s totally normal. You're undergoing a life-changing situation.

Have your partner with you if possible, while giving birth. They can offer you support and be there for those first moments with your baby.

What to Expect Right After Delivery?

Just after a successful childbirth, you’ll probably feel:

A sense of relaxation
A little pull when the doctor removes the placenta
Lots of emotion when you see your baby for the first time

You might have to wait a bit to hold your baby when the doctors close the incision, but lots of hospitals will let you have skin-to-skin contact immediately.

What Will You Feel During the First Few Hours of Recovery?

Once the effect of anaesthesia has reduced, mostly after 2 to 4 hours, sensations begin to come back in your lower body. You can expect:

A mild discomfort or ache in the stitching areas
A tight feeling in your belly when you move or laugh
Mild bloating or gas, which is common after having a C-section

Pain-relief medications are usually provided, so don't hesitate to ask for them if you feel so. Gentle walking after a few hours can help with blood circulation and recovery.

What Is Early Recovery Like?

Your body will recover, and you might encounter:

You’ll probably feel pain for about 1 or 2 weeks in the incision area
You’ll be worn out from the surgery and the new responsibilities of taking care of your baby
Sometimes, your scar might itch or feel like pulling as it heals

Most individuals feel okay doing light activities after a week, but it takes about 6 weeks to recover fully. Try not to lift heavy things, and don’t ignore your doctor’s instructions on taking care of yourself after giving birth.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Give your doctor a call if you have:

Fever with a temperature above 38°C (100.4°F)
Swelling, redness, or pus coming out of your cut
Severe blood loss or pain in the abdomen
A chest ache or breathing troubles

Emotional and Mental Well-Being

Feeling good mentally is just as important as getting your body back on track. However, your feelings can be messed up by adjusting to new duties, drowsiness, and fluctuating hormones. Discussing your emotions, asking for help, and taking small breaks can make recovery easier.

A caesarean delivery may seem daunting, but knowing what you'll and won't feel helps make the journey easy. You'll be awake and feel some pushing and pressure, but it won’t hurt. It might feel weird, but it’s okay. After it’s all over, take a rest. Take it easy and be patient with yourself to enjoy every little moment with your baby.

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 You’ll Feel (and Not Feel) During a C-Section

Will I be awake during a C-section?
Yes, you'll be mostly awake and aware, but the lower half of your body won't feel anything because of the anaesthesia.
How long does it take to heal after a caesarean delivery?
You may begin to see improvement within 2 weeks, though it may take 6 weeks to recover fully.
Is feeling emotional normal after a C-section?
Of course. Hormonal changes and stress due to surgery can mess with your mood. Talking to family, partner, or your doctor about how you feel can really make a difference.