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5 Ways To Avoid Puking During A C-Section
Childbirth is a pretty grueling ordeal no matter which method of delivery you choose. Having a C-section, however, can add an additional layer of stress, pain, and discomfort to the process. Although you can try to have a drug-free vaginal birth, you can't skip pain relief when your mid-section is being operated on. Those medications can sometimes cause nausea, but luckily there are some ways to prevent yourself from throwing up during a C-section.
Drugs aren't the only culprit for C-section nausea, of course. Nerves can also play a big role, as going under the knife can be very scary and panic-inducing for some moms. It may be even worse if your C-section wasn't preplanned or is an emergency. In my opinion, unexpected major surgery seems like a totally valid reason to vomit.
According to Scary Mommy, having to puke when you're flat on your back and largely immobilized is not at all pleasant and can even cause a roaring headache. I was lucky enough to get through my first C-section without upchucking, and I may be using some of the following tips myself to make sure my next birth goes as well.
Here are five things that may help stop you from vomiting because of your C-section.
1Take Anti-Nausea Medicine
The best way to stop yourself from throwing up is to prevent nausea altogether. According to Cafe Mom, you can ask your doctore to give you a dose of a medication like Zofran to keep your stomach settled.
2Say Yes To The IV
Many hospitals make getting intravenous fluids during childbirth mandatory, but even if it isn't, you may want to insist on one. OB-GYN Dr. Mary Marnach told Just The Facts Baby that the IV fluids keep you hydrated and are an ideal way to administer anti-nausea medication.
3Use An Oxygen Mask
Breathing deep on an oxygen mask may help prevent nausea during and after a C-section, according to researchers in Brazil. The study did note, however, that oxygen may be more effective if you've been put under general anesthesia as opposed to other types of pain relief.
4Try Acupressure
Acupressure is so simple and painless that it basically can't hurt to try. Iranian researchers found that it was an effective way to help women undergoing a C-section to keep from throwing up.
5Get Acupuncture
If you don't mind being poked with needles, you may want to give acupuncture a try. According to research found on the National Center for Biotechnology Information website, acupuncture can be used to help stop you from feeling sick or vomiting during and after a C-section.
