Mother, Baby & Kids

Vaginal Prep Before a C-Section You Might Not Know About

Image credit: @_jen_hamilton_ on TikTok

Are you expecting a baby soon and considering to deliver your baby through a C-section?

Well, did you know that the doctors or nurse would perform a vaginal prep before they start the surgery?

Jen Hamilton, a labour and delivery nurse replied to a video regarding vaginal cleansing before the surgery.

@_jen_hamilton_

Replying to @Sabrina Morgan

♬ original sound – Jen Hamilton

Why A Vaginal Prep Is Done

In the video she was replying to, the user was saying that the vagina was cleaned using something similar to a Scrub Daddy sponge.

Jen said that the device is not at all similar to the sponge and looks more like a popsicle or a super tampon and it’s also squishy.

She then explained why doctors and nurses do that prior to the C-section.

People were asking why it’s necessary as we were told not to clean our vagina as it cleans itself.

Jen proceeded to say that it is necessary when you’re having a C-section done as your abdomen is going to be cut.

She said that a female’s abdomen is a host to different kinds of normal and naturally occurring bacteria that lives on your vulva and inside your vagina.

It’s completely fine in normal situations for the bacteria to live there.

However, if the bacteria were to move up through your vagina and into your uterus when you’ve had the surgery, you can get endometritis.

This is a condition that can make you septic and possibly kill you.

What People Have to Say About This

Image credit: @_jen_hamilton_ on TikTok

In the other video which has now been taken down by the creator, people were asking if they can refuse this vaginal prep.

As a response to the initial comments from the other video, Jen urged women not to refuse this vaginal prep.

In Jen’s own video, people have also been sharing that they weren’t made aware of this procedure before the surgery.

Many were saying that they feel violated now that they know this happens.

One of the users commented, “I have had 3 C-sections and never ONCE been told this would happen.”

Another commented, “I get WHY they are doing it. What I don’t understand is why they aren’t TELLING us!”

How to Prepare for Your C-Section

If you are planning to go through a C-section, here’s what you should do to prepare yourself.

OB-GYN, Robyn Horsager-Boehrer shared tips to prepare before your procedure.

1. Restrict Solid Foods

The first tip is to restrict solid food eight hours before the surgery.

This would help reduce the likelihood of vomiting or lung complications.

2. Shower with a Special Soap

Doctors might give you a special soap ahead of time for you to use the night or morning before the surgery.

The soap is used to kill bacteria on the skin and reduce the risk of infection.

3. Don’t Shave Your Stomach or Pubic Area

Shaving with razors actually creates small nicks in the skin which can promote infection after delivery.

If it’s totally necessary to remove your hair, your nurse will take care of it for you.

Don’t Worry

Keep calm, mummies!

You’re in great hands and your doctors and nurses know what they’re doing.

Remember, you can talk to them if you’re feeling uncomfortable or you have any questions.


Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.


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