The C-Section Experience: Empowering C-Section Education and Support

Jen Wagner & Bethany Scott
  • 5.0 (39)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The C-Section Experience podcast is your guide to navigating c-section births with confidence and clarity. Through education, birth stories, and unwavering support, we aim to help you prepare for and process your birth journey. Whether you're planning a c-section or have faced an unexpected one, The C-Section Experience is here to support you. We break the stigma, erase the shame, and ease the fear around cesarean births. Our mission is to empower you with knowledge and expert insights so you can confidently advocate for yourself and create the best possible birth experience.

  1. 23H AGO

    Can You Choose to Have a C-Section? Understanding Elective Cesareans [63]

    Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide   Jen and Bethany discuss elective C-sections, also known as cesarean delivery on maternal request (CDMR)—exploring why some women choose a planned C-section without a medical indication, what the research says, and how obstetricians view these requests in real clinical practice. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience, Jen and Bethany cover: Why some women prefer a planned C-section Fear of labor pain, a history of birth trauma, the desire for predictability and control, anxiety around fetal distress, prior difficult labors, and more. The current stance of U.S. obstetricians How OBs think about CDMR, why most are cautious, and what guidelines suggest about timing, safety, and patient counseling. The importance of autonomy + informed consent Why non-judgmental, thorough, two-way discussions matter when patients request a C-section—and how clinicians can support decision-making without pressure or shame. How common (or uncommon) maternal request C-sections actually are Risks, benefits, and considerations for multiple C-sections Including placenta accreta spectrum, recovery differences, and long-term planning for future pregnancies. Who This Episode Is For Anyone who's: considering a planned C-section processing previous birth trauma curious about their options preparing to talk with their OB wanting evidence-based clarity without the judgment Key Takeaway Choosing a C-section—whether for medical reasons or personal reasons—is deeply individual. Women deserve respectful, informed, and compassionate conversations about their choices. This episode helps you understand the landscape so you can approach your decision with confidence.   Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: hi@csxpodcast.com.   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

    28 min

  2. NOV 11

    Tips for Your First Week Home After a C-Section [62]

    Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide   The first week home after a C-section is a mix of exhaustion, emotions, and endless questions - and Jen and Bethany are here to help you navigate it all. In this episode, they walk through the first seven days after coming home, sharing realistic, day-by-day guidance for rest, recovery, and sanity. From managing pain and medication to setting up your space and remembering to eat (and breathe!), this conversation covers the things that really matter when you're healing from surgery while caring for a newborn. They discuss: Rest, recovery, and realistic expectations for the first week What to eat and how to stay nourished when you're exhausted Incision care, movement, and safe ways to start gentle activity Setting up your home to make recovery smoother Mental health check-ins and carving out small moments of calm How to stay on top of medications and avoid common mistakes Managing visitors, asking for help, and giving yourself grace With honesty and warmth, Jen and Bethany remind listeners that recovery isn't linear — it's a process that deserves patience, compassion, and support. Whether you're preparing for your C-section or already home with your baby, this episode is your 7-day roadmap for healing, resting, and finding your strength again.   Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: hi@csxpodcast.com.   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

    32 min

  3. NOV 4

    What is a High Spinal? [61]

    Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide   Jen and Bethany unpack one of the most serious, but fortunately rare, complications in obstetric anesthesia: high spinal anesthesia. Their goal is to help listeners who may have experienced this event, or who have questions after hearing about it, find clarity and reassurance through understanding.   Dr. Jen explains what a high spinal is, how it happens, and what signs and symptoms patients and providers look for. The conversation covers how anesthesia providers recognize and manage this emergency—especially focusing on breathing support, blood pressure stabilization, and maternal safety.   They also discuss when and why high spinal events are more likely to occur, such as when epidural and spinal techniques overlap, and what protocols are in place to respond immediately.   Beyond the medical details, Jen and Bethany explore the emotional and psychological impact of experiencing a high spinal during childbirth. They emphasize the importance of trauma-informed care, open communication, and seeking support after such a frightening event.   Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: hi@csxpodcast.com.   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

    19 min

  4. OCT 28

    12 C-Section Hospital Bag Essentials Every Mom Should Pack [60]

    Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide   Jen and Bethany break down what to pack in your hospital bag for a C-section—so you feel calm, organized, and fully prepared for your big day. You'll learn: C-section hospital bag essentials — including your ID, insurance card, nursing bra, comfortable clothes, breast pump, cozy blanket, and toiletries. What to pack for your baby — swaddles, newborn outfits, diapers, wipes, and feeding supplies. What your partner should bring — comfort items, snacks, entertainment, and supportive reminders. How to create a calm environment while packing and why this mindset matters for birth preparation. They also share real-life packing tips, discuss common over-packing mistakes, and offer a special listener discount: 50% off their signature hospital socks at csxpodcast.com. This conversation reminds every mom that self-care starts before birth—and that even something as simple as packing a hospital bag can be an empowering, grounding ritual. Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: hi@csxpodcast.com.   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

    39 min

  5. OCT 21

    Should You Request an Anesthesia Consult Before Birth? [59]

    Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide   Most parents don't know they can request an anesthesia consult during pregnancy—yet it can change your birth experience. Dr. Jen (obstetric anesthesiologist) and Bethany break down what an anesthesia consult is, who should get one, ideal timing (late 2nd–early 3rd trimester), and how to ask. They cover medical reasons (cardiac, respiratory, clotting disorders, scoliosis/back surgery, Chiari malformation, neurologic conditions, airway history), pregnancy-specific scenarios (anticoagulation, placenta accreta, Jehovah's Witness), and experience-based reasons (birth trauma, anxiety, failed/complicated neuraxial, high spinal, spinal headache, difficult epidural). You'll learn what info to prepare, how consult notes follow you into delivery, and how to align your priorities—comfort, presence, pain control—into a clear plan. What we cover What an anesthesia consult is and why it matters—even if you plan a vaginal birth Ideal timing (late 2nd–early 3rd trimester) and virtual vs. in-person options How to request a consult through your OB/MFM or on your own What to bring: meds, specialist notes, imaging (e.g., spine MRI), prior anesthesia records Building a plan around your priorities (awake/present, anxiety control, pain control Key takeaways You can ask for an anesthesia consult; it's typically covered and documented in your chart. Earlier conversations = smoother day-of decisions (and backups). Repeat your key concerns to OB, L&D nurse, and anesthesia—redundancy keeps you safe. Name your priorities (presence vs. anxiety vs. pain control) to tailor meds and approach. If past care felt scary or unclear, a consult can help you process and plan for next time—even pre-conception. Action steps   Ask your OB/MFM to place an anesthesia consult (target: 26–32 weeks). Gather records: cardiology/hematology notes, recent imaging, anesthesia notes from prior birth/surgeries, med list + doses. Write a 1-page summary: history, fears, must-know preferences (e.g., bonding plan, partner role if GA). Confirm how consult notes will be visible to your L&D team on admission.   Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: hi@csxpodcast.com.   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

    48 min

  6. OCT 14

    Should Pregnant Women Avoid Tylenol? [58]

    Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide   Jen and Bethany unpack the recent Tylenol-in-pregnancy panic—where it came from, what the evidence actually shows, and how risk–benefit thinking should guide real decisions (especially if you're having a C-section or surgery in pregnancy). We talk association vs. causation, sibling-matched data, fever and infection risks, NSAIDs across trimesters, opioids, and why blanket "never" statements hurt moms.  What you'll learn Why association ≠ causation—and how sibling studies change the picture The difference between treating pain/fever vs. doing nothing in pregnancy NSAIDs by trimester Opioids: real risks, real indications How to use risk–benefit thinking like your care team does A simple breathing tool for anxious moments Takeaways Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time—that guidance hasn't changed. Untreated fever/pain can carry their own risks. Big, scary claims without context are red flags—ask for data, not headlines.   Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: hi@csxpodcast.com.   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

    42 min

  7. OCT 7

    Dad Diaries: Essential C-Section Tips for Dads [57]

    Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide What's it really like to be a dad during a C-section? In this episode of The C-Section Experience, Jen and Bethany shine a light on the often-overlooked experiences of fathers and partners in the operating room and beyond. Bethany shares her own family's story while walking through responses to ten candid questions answered by dads who've been through C-sections with their partners. From the emotional weight of watching surgery unfold, to advocating for their partner, to figuring out how to best help at home—this episode gives dads a voice and offers actionable tips for those preparing for the journey. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The emotional challenges dads face before, during, and after a C-section. How dads can advocate for their partners in the hospital. What to expect during recovery at home and how to play an active role in caregiving. Practical ways to manage visitors and discharge stress. The importance of humor, connection, and teamwork in navigating early parenthood. This episode reminds us that dads need support, too. By hearing directly from fathers who've walked this path, new and expecting dads will feel more prepared, less alone, and better equipped to show up for their partners and babies.   Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: hi@csxpodcast.com.   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

    46 min

  8. SEP 30

    What Every Mom Should Know About Pain During C-Section [56]

    Download our FREE C-Section guide here:   CSX Guide In this episode of The C-Section Experience, Jen and Bethany conclude their two-part discussion on intraoperative pain during cesarean deliveries—a topic rarely talked about but deeply important for moms. They revisit the pain assessment challenges explored in Episode 4 and highlight Heather Nixon's innovative approach of continually assessing pain levels throughout surgery. The conversation dives into practical solutions, system improvements, and how communication and trust between patients and providers can make all the difference. Listeners will learn about: How anesthesiologists monitor and respond to intraoperative pain during C-sections The psychological impact of pain on mothers and why validation matters Options if pain relief is incomplete (including the use of general anesthesia) Common misconceptions about general anesthesia and when it may be appropriate The four key things every mother should know before a C-section to feel prepared and empowered This episode emphasizes patient education, proactive communication, and the importance of evolving pain-management practices through feedback and continuous improvement. Whether you're preparing for a planned C-section, processing a previous experience, or supporting someone through surgery, this conversation provides insight, validation, and practical takeaways.   Website: csxpodcast.com    Email us: hi@csxpodcast.com.   Follow us on instagram: @thecsxpodcast Birth Services + postpartum support: lemontreebabies.com. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content in this podcast should not be considered medical advice.

    39 min
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5
out of 5
39 Ratings

About

The C-Section Experience podcast is your guide to navigating c-section births with confidence and clarity. Through education, birth stories, and unwavering support, we aim to help you prepare for and process your birth journey. Whether you're planning a c-section or have faced an unexpected one, The C-Section Experience is here to support you. We break the stigma, erase the shame, and ease the fear around cesarean births. Our mission is to empower you with knowledge and expert insights so you can confidently advocate for yourself and create the best possible birth experience.

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