Thread: Bellydancers w/ C-Sections

Hi,

I'm 36 weeks pregnant, and my little one is firmly in the footling breech position. No wonder it feels like someone's clog dancing on my pelvis. I'm trying numerous methods to get the baby to turn, and there are a few weeks before it becomes go-time. But I am also trying to learn about c-sections, because that will be my only option if the LO decides to stay put. I'd been planning a natural, drug-free birth, so this is a definite change of pace.

I've known lots of people with c-sections who've recovered fairly easily, but I don't think any of my bellydance friends have had one. So I have a few questions:

Did it affect your dancing, especially with abdominal muscle control?
Is the scar visible when you're in costume?
Any words of wisdom?

Obviously, the health and safety of my baby are guiding my decision, but I'm curious what other bellydancers have experienced.

I had one about 9 years ago, along with a beautiful little blonde dance partner. ;)

Mine was also unexpected, as apparently, women in my family are "good" at being pregnant and "bad" at actually delivering.

Recovery advice: after any abdominal surgery, stairs are the hardest thing to battle. Go up them facing backwards. It takes the strain off of your abs. Looks odd, but works.

Dance recovery advice:
1. My scar does not show, as it is right at the top of the hairline, and I won't wear my costumes that low. This assumes they can do a "bikini" cut, and not an emergency C.
2. Yes, I did notice a problem "reconnecting" with my lower abs. I still see a stunting in my undulations as I can feel and see (I may be the only one looking) that they don't roll as far down through the muscles. But, my lower abs have never been that strong, so I may be able to improve with focus.
3. The hardest thing for me to recover was my shimmy. My hips moved a LOT during pregnancy. The flexors tightened differently. My stance had to change. And somehow, when I tried to relearn to shimmy, I somehow got my back muscles to drive the movement, which is not an enduring way to move. So, I had to take "remedial" shimmy lessons. And, if I slack off of dancing for a bit, I have to remember to shimmy the "right" way, not the other way.
4. My belts fit differently, as the incision became a new defining line for my "baby leftovers" -- that lovely goddess belly that some Mom's have. So, I HAD to start padding my belts. (Instructions on my blog, linked in my signature.)

Your body is different, and you will encounter your own challenges. But, your little one will be well worth it!

Wishing you a smooth delivery and restful sleep after!

I had two C-sections, but I didn't start dancing until 5 years later.

Recovery from the surgery was slow. They tell you to allow 6 weeks, I think, before driving or generally expecting to have a normal life, and that was about right for me. (of course, I was pretty content to lie in and snuggle my warm fuzzy baby for several weeks, so that was OK with me!) My scar would still occasionally twinge when I sneezed or laughed hard as much as two years later! That surprised me.

When I started dancing, 5 years later, I had some trouble with my lower abs. There were still numb places throughout my lower belly at that time, too. I think I'd developed a habit of NOT using those muscles over the years -- if I'd been dancing the whole time, I'm certain that wouldn't have still been an issue by then. I've noticed among my students that lower ab control is an issue for MANY of them, and especially those who've had babies, whether it was C section or not. Some of that probably just comes from the muscles having been stretched during pregnanacy and, from developing the habit of not using them much at that time.

No permanent changes, though. My scar doesn't show, and I have as much control over my low abs as anyone (and more than some). So in the end, it's all good. Just be very patient during your recovery, it may take a while to rebuild strength and control.

I don't have any advice, but just want to say congrats and good luck! :)

Thanks for the feedback and well wishes! I'm glad to hear that you all recovered well.


It's interesting about the shimmies, anala. I have been dancing, but have been mostly doing gentle, flowing movements lately.


I hope that if I do have a c-section that it will not be an emergency so I'll be able to get the bikini incision. I guess I'll have to clarify with my doctor under what conditions would it be considered an "emergency." i.e., if I go into labor early and go to the hospital, would that be considered an emergency C, or if I got there early enough, could I get a bikini incision. I'm already at 4 cm dilation, so that makes me a little nervous, even though I know I could be like this for weeks.

Emergency C's tend to be just that -- because of a dire medical emergency, instances where not delivering the baby NOW would risk losing one, if not both, lives.

If you need a C section, it will in all likelihood be the standard bikini cut.

And, you know what this type A, retentive, plans-everything chick learned during labor? Labor is the first of many curve balls your child will throw at you. Even if you plan a home birth, try to find a class at a hospital that will teach you the basics of other birth styles. Many are free, if I recall. It never hurts to study a little about other possibilities, so that you can make the best decision quickly when you have to. (I remember when we got tot he part about C sections, my husband and I looked at each other as if to ask "why do we need to know that?" )

My c-section was an emergency one so I have a vertical scar. Mine does show if my belt slips down. Of course mine was done 26 years ago and I have gained weight so my scar is very ugly and when the belt slips it looks like I have a double bellybutton, lol. It's just one of those things, it bothers me but not enough to NOT dance or be super sensitive about it. I try to wear my belt higher but as I mentioned sometimes it slips. I have a few friends that also have this problem but in my mind it's not any worse than those who have stretch marks. We're women, strange things can happen during pregnancy and child birth. It's all part of the process. Just remember nothing ever goes as planned. I have a beautiful 26 year old daughter and the battle scar to prove it

Like my husband's hat says, "Scars are like tattoos, but with better stories!"

Scarring can be a genetic thing, some people will have more or less depending on that (this is what my doc told me). I got lucky and my scar is practically non-existant, even in a bikini and it is also very low anyway. It did take me a while to get feeling back to the area and i still don't have great lower ab control, but I could probably work on it more. I was so disappointed when I had to have a c-section after many hours of being in labor, but like many aspects of childbirth, it didn't seem to matter when my son was placed in my arms the first time! Recovery was alot better than I expected, and I even had to move across the country less than 2 weeks afterwards. Everyone's experience is different, however. In any case, hugs and congratulations!

Anala, We have taken a few childbirth classes, one through the hospital and one w/ my prenatal yoga teacher. The hospital one did talk about c-sections somewhat, and they were supposed to talk more about the recovery aspect during the final class. Unfortunately we had to miss that night because we both had horrible respiratory infections. Of course, the night I need would be the one I missed!

thanks for your stories, carpediem and brokentiles! Carpe--I can't imagine moving two weeks after having any baby, much less by c-section. You're a better man than I.

Hi Rachel,

I had 2 c sections, recovered fast from both and 0 problems with anything dance related including scar showing. I was in very good condition during both pregnancies, gained only baby weight, breastfed after but then I was young- 23 and 28 for the birth of my kids. There was the scar was low and ugly especially after #2 but covered by the costume. If this is your situation, don't worry about a c section. The biggest problem with dancing after a c section is finding the time and energy to do it!!!!

Best of luck!

Susi

I've had 3 c-sections. I've found that recovery time takes a little longer with each one, but that could also be because I've been a little older with each one. They've cut along the same scar line each time, which as others have mentioned is so low it's right at the hairline, so no problem to cover up. Stretchmarks are a bigger concern for most women than the c-section scar, I think.

The first week is painful. Take care of yourself, take it easy. In fact, get someone to stay with you at home for the first two days after you get out of the hospital. Even if you feel really good before you leave the hospital, you won't after you get home. (I learned this lesson the hard way. Learn from my mistakes!)

After the first week, you'll find yourself slowly getting back to normal. Don't push yourself. Your body will let you know when it's ready to do things. It might take you a bit of time to recover muscle tone and strength, but it would after any pregnancy, regardless of the delivery. My youngest is 20 months old, and while it was a struggle for awhile, at this point my lower ab strength is up to par with anyone else in my class.

Congratulations and best of luck! I hope you get to have the delivery you've wanted, but even if you don't, the prize is well worth any sacrifice.

Both of my C-sections were emergencies, and both were bikini cut. (25 and 17 years ago).

Hey there! My son is 20 months old. I had a c-section, unplanned (but not emergency) and had a bikini-line c-section.

My OB knew beforehand that I am a bellydancer. He SEWED my ab muscles back together to speed the recovery process in order to help me regain tone faster.

You can not tell I ever had any type of abdominal surgery (see my avatar pic). My incision line is virtually invisible. I was doing tummy flutters and belly rolls the day after my c-section (probably not recommended, but my OB thought it was great, actually). I was back in class 2 weeks later, and was back to dancing gigs 6 weeks after the c-section.

I did not have a long recovery, and I believe it is ALL due to remaining active up until birth. I was on stage at 32 weeks preg, in weeklong workshop with aziza at 28 weeks preg, and took a 2-day workshop with Mohammed Shahin at 32 weeks preg. I danced until 38 weeks preg at least an hour a day. I also swam daily.

I do not recall having much pain after the surgery, maybe a bit sore, but honestly, I had very very little pain. In fact, I think my monthly cramps are more painful. But then, God has a way of taking the memories of the pain of childbirth and watering them down with memories of your sweet baby's face, so maybe it hurt more than I remember

ETA... By the way, I posted the above to give you encouragement, but do NOT feel bad if it takes you months to recover! Having a baby is a HUGE deal, and it is a MAJOR accomplishment in and of itself. Take it easy on yourself, take the time to get to know your new little love, and above all ENJOY those moments while they last! Know that it gets easier with time (busier, but easier), and I will be the first to say that your priorities WILL change. You will still love dance, but you may find that you'd rather spend time with your babe than do anything else in the world. I still feel that way, and mine is a toddler now!

Oh, ETA again... I was not planning a c-section either, and when it became apparent that I would have to have one I was VERY down on myself. Luckily my OB sensed that I was disappointed, and was very quick to point out that nature was guiding the decision and that I should be very proud to have carried a child for 9 months, and that how he came into the world was, ultimately, inconsequential as long as he was healthy and I was healthy. PLEASE do not feel bad if you end up having a c-section!

Sorry it took me so long to get back here to update. Baby was still breech on Tuesday, but I wasn't any further dilated.

It's been really great to hear so many positive stories. In talking to my friends, it seems like the only people who regard a c-section as a great tragedy are people who haven't had them. When I mention scheduling a c-section or a procedure to possibly turn the baby (which would likely result in either a c-section or induction), my best friend gets a look on her face like I'm talking about something awful and that's not very helpful.

A vaginal birth is still my preference, but I think I'll just be thrilled to meet my baby.

Originally Posted by rachelw

Sorry it took me so long to get back here to update. Baby was still breech on Tuesday, but I wasn't any further dilated.

It's been really great to hear so many positive stories. In talking to my friends, it seems like the only people who regard a c-section as a great tragedy are people who haven't had them. When I mention scheduling a c-section or a procedure to possibly turn the baby (which would likely result in either a c-section or induction), my best friend gets a look on her face like I'm talking about something awful and that's not very helpful.

A vaginal birth is still my preference, but I think I'll just be thrilled to meet my baby.

And that's the thing: I think childbirth is nature's way of letting women know that they can only "control" their parenting up to a point. I wanted a relatively natural birth, in a hospital, but no drugs. Instead of a naturally occurring labor, I had to be induced. I made it several hours, then gave in to pain meds. After more hours, a C section was absolutely necessary. I wanted to breastfeed, that wasn't an option either.

While horribly frustrating at the time, all this taught me that there ARE other options. And, while they may not be your first choice, you may choose them because they are best for your family. And while others will always have an opinion, you have to do what is best for YOUR family, not theirs.

Best of luck to you dear! My you have a smooth delivery and a restful time getting to know your little one!

Originally Posted by AnalaVA

And while others will always have an opinion, you have to do what is best for YOUR family, not theirs.

A big giant AMEN to this!

And that's the thing: I think childbirth is nature's way of letting women know that they can only "control" their parenting up to a point.

Yes! This is exactly what I was thinking. I knew this on sort of an intellectual level, but it's amazing how much this makes me realize that there's a whole other person involved here and I can't control what they do. I can sit here and say "Turn over for mommy!" but that doesn't mean s/he will.

And Sonja, I forgot to mention earlier that I am soooo impressed by your workout regimen. I was doing really well up until about a month ago and I came down with a respiratory infection that knocked me on my ass for two weeks. It's been hard getting back into the routine after that, not to mention how much bigger I am.

Just listen to your body while recovering. Ask for help, even if it is not offered, rest as much as possible the first few weeks to allow for good healing and do not lift anything.

Your body will go through A LOT of changes in the first few weeks after having a baby regardless of whether it was a vaginal or C-section birth. As well as that, you are getting to know this new little person who asks for a lot (especially at night) and establishing breastfeeding can take time.

It's also a good reason not to change any nappies for a few weeks! Good luck!

Well, well. Looks like it's going to be a c-section.

It looks like the placenta is in the front of my uterus, which would make the procedure to turn the baby less effective and probably more dangerous. Unless the baby flips on their own, a c-section is recommended. So I have scheduled a C-section for April 17. It feels a little odd to choose my baby's birthday, but there you have it.

I'm hoping that we can use that last weekend for a nice final date as pre-parents at a restaurant we can't take a baby to, maybe get a massage, etc.

Thanks for all your input, Bhuzzers. I will let you know how it goes!

Originally Posted by rachelw

Well, well. Looks like it's going to be a c-section.

It looks like the placenta is in the front of my uterus, which would make the procedure to turn the baby less effective and probably more dangerous. Unless the baby flips on their own, a c-section is recommended. So I have scheduled a C-section for April 17. It feels a little odd to choose my baby's birthday, but there you have it.

I'm hoping that we can use that last weekend for a nice final date as pre-parents at a restaurant we can't take a baby to, maybe get a massage, etc.

Thanks for all your input, Bhuzzers. I will let you know how it goes!

If I may offer one last bit of unsolicited advice . . . when you have your date, don't go for Mexican. I love Mexican, but it . . . stayed with me for a few days after surgery. Flavorful, but gentle food might be better. ;)

Good luck!

Good luck!! A last date is a great idea as soon you will be three.

Another bit of unsolicited advice: make sure you discuss your "expectations" of after the baby comes home. Who does what, what is needed, esp w a C-section you will need a lot of help. The more rest you have after, the better the knitting of the muscles back together and less likely to have ongoing problems later, like a hernia.

Will be thinking of you!

Haha, Thanks for the tip Anala. I also love Mexican food and I wouldn't have thought of that. I know I can't have anything after midnight, but it's probably a good idea to not eat anything too crazy the day before anyway. I should be getting specific instructions from my OB today but that's a good reminder.

Thanks Charni. My parents are going to be staying with us for the first two weeks or so, so hopefully they'll be a big help. After that, I'm hoping that friends will help us take care of dog walks, house work, etc. This comes at a difficult time for us as my husband is a horticulturist and landscaper. He'll be taking some time off, but this is his busiest time of year. Like, if Mrs. Claus gave birth in December. Maybe we can time our next baby for the late fall.

I was one of those strange women who have C-section by choice!

I had a great OB who was very careful and I recovered fast. I found just paracetemol and ibuprofen worked fine for the pain. My scar is very light and low. If that showed, then the audience would be getting an eyeful.

I did get some remedial massage as i had heard of people getting tightness around their scar from adhesions and the massages are supposed to break down the scar tissue.

I had some tightness doing backbends, or holding the happy cat or cow? position in yoga, but after about a year that was all gone.

I was told not to do anything like jogging or dancing for six months, which sounded an awful long time but I did what I was told.

The hardest bit of the whole deal was the first 24 hours. I can't have morphine so I had to be hooked up to a pump and the meds in that stopped me from sleeping. I had inflatable squeezy thing on my legs to maintian blood flow that kept me awake too.

I remember being a bit fearful about the epidural but it was really fine.

Best of luck for your big day. I hope you have a quick recovery and enjoy your baby as the time will fly

Ladies, I just wanted to add how much I appreciate the experiences and wisdom on this thread. I'm three weeks into my recovery after a c-section, and it was pretty rough for me at the beginning. I'd also really tried for a natural childbirth, and had it for the first, oh, three days of labour (I'm not joking), but by the end of day four, having finally pushed for two hours to no avail, I wound up with the surgery. That baby was not coming out, no way, no how.

The point about labour being a lesson in parenthood is well taken -- I never imagined that the natural, med-free part of my labour would be traumatic, or that the epidural and later the c-section would be wonderful. I really hope nobody feels guilty about a c-section they need. Some of us can push babies out through our vaginas, and some of us would have died in labour two hundred years ago.

And I'm glad to know the experiences of dancers after the c-section... I'm so eager to get moving again, but I also really wonder how my belly will feel. I need to treat it very gingerly right now!

Rachelw, hope things went smoothly!

Philoclea, you are a strong woman who will be a strong Mom. Sending you wishes for healing-- you just went WAY above and beyond for your baby!

RachelW, here's hoping your first week as a MOM is going GREAT!

Hey everyone,

Thanks so much for all the well wishes!

Just wanted to drop in and update. So, three days before my scheduled c-section and a week before my actual due date, I woke up one morning and discovered that I was in labor. We got to the hospital and a quick check from the nurses showed that my cervix was fully dilated and I was ready to push (or would have been, had the baby not been breech). I was totally shocked, as an hour earlier I'd been in bed asleep, unaware that I would be having a baby that very morning. I'd gotten up a few times overnight to go to the bathroom and didn't notice any contractions, so I have no idea when they actually started.

So, they rushed me into the OR. They had to knock me out because the spinal anesthesia was not taking effect fast enough and the baby was coming faster than anyone could have predicted. My husband wasn't able to be there. He was waiting in the hallway, expecting the nurses to come get him when they were ready to start and suddenly one of the nurses came walking out with a baby...it's a girl! I'm disappointed that I wasn't able to be lucid for her first moments and that my husband wasn't able to witness it, but she's healthy as can be. She's definitely a keeper.

It's been over two weeks and the soreness is going away. The last few days I haven't had any pain meds. I have a numb spot where I think my transverse abdominals are, between my bellybutton and the incision. It's such an odd sensation to have that disconnect after being so familiar with my abs for so long. Obviously, no dancing yet, which is driving me a bit nuts. The scar is definitely too low to show when I'm dancing, but it looks like it's healing well. The nurses were very impressed with the progress it made while I was in the hospital.

Anala-thanks for the stairs tip. It was definitely helpful in the first few days, since I have to go up stairs to get in my front door.

Congratulations!

Originally Posted by rachelw

So, they rushed me into the OR. They had to knock me out because the spinal anesthesia was not taking effect fast enough and the baby was coming faster than anyone could have predicted. My husband wasn't able to be there. He was waiting in the hallway, expecting the nurses to come get him when they were ready to start and suddenly one of the nurses came walking out with a baby...it's a girl! I'm disappointed that I wasn't able to be lucid for her first moments and that my husband wasn't able to witness it, but she's healthy as can be. She's definitely a keeper.

It's been over two weeks and the soreness is going away. The last few days I haven't had any pain meds. I have a numb spot where I think my transverse abdominals are, between my bellybutton and the incision. It's such an odd sensation to have that disconnect after being so familiar with my abs for so long. Obviously, no dancing yet, which is driving me a bit nuts. The scar is definitely too low to show when I'm dancing, but it looks like it's healing well. The nurses were very impressed with the progress it made while I was in the hospital.

rachelw, many congrats on the healthy birth! I know what it's like to have the mixed feelings... of course having a healthy baby is number one, but it's easy to feel disconnected from the baby when you have a c-section or for various reasons can't really be "present" for the birth. I finally managed to write about it here, but my feelings are still pretty complicated. It's hard! Even when we're lucky and have healthy babies.

And I know what you mean about going nuts at not dancing. I miss yoga, at least light stretches for my back, and I really miss dancing. My six-week appt is on Monday, and I'm hoping I get the go-ahead to dance again!