Why You Should Prepare for a C-Section – Even If It’s Not Your First Choice

Did you know that in 2023/24, 42% of all deliveries in England were by caesarean section? That’s nearly half of all births. While many expectant parents plan for a vaginal delivery, the reality is that a C-section may become necessary, whether for medical reasons or due to unforeseen circumstances during labour.

So, even if a C-section isn’t your first choice, preparing for the possibility can make all the difference in how you experience birth—helping you feel calm, informed, and in control.

Why It’s Important to Prepare for a C-Section

Many parents focus solely on preparing for a vaginal birth, only to feel unprepared and overwhelmed if a C-section becomes necessary. But just like birth itself, a positive experience is often about mindset and preparation.

A planned or emergency C-section doesn’t mean you’ve failed—far from it. Birth is birth, and every way of bringing your baby into the world is valid. The key is knowing your options, understanding what to expect, and having strategies in place to support your recovery.

How to Prepare for a C-Section (Even If You’re Hoping for a Vaginal Birth)

1. Learn About the Process

Knowledge is power. Understanding what happens during a C-section—what the procedure involves, how long it takes, and what recovery looks like—can reduce fear and uncertainty.

Even if you’re planning a vaginal birth, discuss the possibility of a C-section with your midwife or consultant, so you know your options in advance.

2. Create a Gentle C-Section Birth Plan

Yes, you can still have a birth plan! A gentle or family-centred C-section focuses on making the experience as calm and personal as possible. You can request:

✅ Delayed cord clamping to allow more oxygen-rich blood to reach your baby
✅ Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth
✅ A calm environment with dimmed lights and music
✅ A clear drape so you can see your baby being born if you choose

3. Attend a C-Section Workshop

Our C-Section Preparation Workshops are designed to help you feel informed, empowered, and confident about birth—whatever path it takes. We cover:

🔹 What happens before, during, and after a C-section
🔹 Techniques to stay calm and in control using hypnobirthing and relaxation
🔹 How to create a positive birth experience (even if it’s not what you planned)
🔹 Recovery tips for a smoother postnatal period

4. Prepare Your Recovery Space

Unlike a vaginal birth, recovery from a C-section takes a little more planning. Set up a comfortable space at home with:

💜 Pillows for extra support (especially for feeding)
💜 High-waisted, soft clothing to avoid irritating your incision
💜 A basket of essentials within easy reach (snacks, water, nappies, wipes)
💜 A plan for help with household tasks so you can focus on healing

5. Practice Hypnobirthing for C-Sections

Hypnobirthing isn’t just for vaginal births! It’s a powerful tool for staying calm, relaxed, and in control before and during a C-section. Breathing techniques, visualisations, and affirmations can help reduce anxiety and make the experience feel empowering rather than passive. Check out my MP3s for C-Section Preparation!

Future Pacing: Imagine Your Calm, Confident Birth Experience

Picture yourself on the day of your baby’s birth. Whether it’s a vaginal delivery or a C-section, you feel calm, prepared, and in control. You breathe deeply, knowing you have the tools and knowledge to navigate whatever comes your way.

Later, as you hold your baby in your arms, you feel proud of yourself for making choices that supported you both. You remember the peaceful moments of your birth—how you stayed present, how you felt reassured, and how you welcomed your baby in the most loving way possible.

That is the power of preparation.

Want to feel calm and confident about your birth—whatever happens? Join one of my C-Section Workshops and prepare for a positive experience, no matter how your baby arrives. Get in touch today!