Planned Caesarean Birth – Your Birth, Your Way

When we imagine the birth of our baby, many of us picture a spontaneous, physiological labour. But birth comes in many forms – and a planned (elective) caesarean birth can be a positive, empowering experience when you’re informed, supported, and prepared.

There are many reasons why someone might plan a caesarean birth. It may be due to a medical recommendation – such as if baby is breech, if there’s a history of complications in a previous birth, or if certain conditions make labour riskier for either parent or baby. But for some families, caesarean birth is their preferred mode of birth – and that is a valid choice.

You can be supported in choosing a caesarean birth, even if you do not have clinical risk factors. Your preferences matter. Your experience matters. It’s your body, your baby, and your birth.

For others, choice isn’t part of the picture. Medical complications or risks may mean that a caesarean birth is the only safe option – and that can bring its own set of feelings. If your birth plan suddenly changes, it can feel disorientating. It’s okay to grieve the experience you hoped for and feel grateful for the safe arrival of your baby. Both can be true.

The good news is that even with a caesarean birth, there are still choices you can make to support a calm, connected experience – and that’s something I explore in depth with families during my Mindful Birth Preparation sessions.

Your preferences matter. Your experience matters. It’s your body, your baby, and your birth.

Here are some ways to optimise your planned caesarean birth:

1. Create a soothing environment 

Ask for dimmed lights, gentle music, or bring in familiar scents (like lavender essential oil on a cotton pad) to help you feel grounded and relaxed.

2. Use mindfulness and breathwork 

Even during a surgical birth, these tools can be incredibly powerful. Focused breathing, grounding techniques and positive affirmations can help to reduce anxiety and enhance oxytocin – the love and bonding hormone.

3. Gentle or 'natural' caesarean birth techniques 

Some hospitals will support a slower birth, where baby is gently eased out with less assistance, and the screen is lowered so you can witness the moment of birth if you choose.

4. Delayed cord clamping & skin-to-skin 

These are still possible during a caesarean birth. In most cases, the cord can be left intact for a minute or two before clamping. Many hospitals will also support immediate skin-to-skin in theatre or shortly after in recovery.

5. Bring a birth preferences document 

Even for a planned caesarean birth, it’s worth writing your wishes down. Let your team know what's important to you – whether that’s music, photos, or who you want present.

6. Prepare for recovery 

A caesarean birth is major abdominal surgery. Rest, nourishment, support, and patience are key. Be kind to yourself. Accept help where it’s offered. Don’t rush your healing.

7. Do your research – knowledge is empowering 

Understanding the procedure, the options available to you, and the realities of recovery can help you feel more in control. You do have choices – around anaesthesia, partner presence, catheter timing, feeding support and more.

You deserve to feel empowered - however your baby is born.

Whether a planned caesarean birth is your decision or the only safe path, it can still be a birth filled with joy, intention, and connection.

If you’d like some personalised support, my Mindful Birth Preparation course can be tailored to support planned caesarean birth – helping you feel informed, calm, and ready for the journey ahead.

I’ve also written a guided relaxation script designed specifically for those preparing for caesarean birth using mindfulness or hypnobirthing techniques. If you’d like a copy, just get in touch!

Recommended read: Why Caesarean Matters by Clare Goggin. A gentle, evidence-based book that can support you to feel confident and empowered, whatever your birth journey.

I’m also available to support you postnatally after a caesarean birth if you feel you need it. There are a number of caesarean wound-friendly positions for breastfeeding or bottle feeding your baby, to ensure you can do this comfortably in the early days.

You deserve to feel empowered – however your baby is born.