Before a Cesarean Birth

Whether a cesarean is scheduled or not, the preparation is nearly the same. Either way, your healthcare team will get you ready for surgery. If you have a partner, he or she can often stay with you for most of this time.

For all cesareans

• All cesarean births, scheduled or not, require certain steps. To prepare for surgery:
• You will need to sign a consent form.
• If you have any hair on your stomach it may be removed to just below the top of your pubic bone. If hair removal is part of your normal routine at home you may do so before the surgery.
• A wash that cleans and disinfects the skin will be applied to your belly.
• An intravenous (IV) line will be started to supply medications and fluids.
• A catheter (small tube) will be placed in your bladder to drain urine.
• A fetal monitor may be used to check your baby’s heart rate.
• You will be given a spinal block, epidural block, or general anesthesia.

For a scheduled cesarean

Before scheduling a cesarean, tests may be done to confirm your due date. This helps to make sure that your baby is ready to be born when the cesarean is performed. Cesareans are often scheduled near the 39th week of pregnancy. Some healthcare providers may ask you to not eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before surgery. Ask your healthcare provider for instructions on what foods or drinks to avoid before the surgery.