175: What to Expect During a C-Section: Part 1

Whether it’s scheduled or unexpected, I firmly believe that a cesarean birth is still a birth, and every mom deserves to feel informed, supported, and empowered through it. But the truth is, many women go into their C-sections feeling unprepared and unsure of what to expect during a C-section. That’s why I knew we needed to record this episode, and I found the perfect guests to help us do just that: Dr. Jen Wagner, a board-certified obstetric anesthesiologist, and Bethany Scott, a registered nurse, doula, and fellow C-section mom. We had such an incredible discussion that we ended up talking for hours! There was so much valuable information being shared that we decided to split it into two episodes, because we truly didn’t want to leave anything out. These kinds of honest conversations are exactly what we need to help shift the narrative around cesarean birth. Who are Bethany + Jen? Dr. Jen Wagner is a board-certified, fellowship-trained obstetric anesthesiologist with years of experience supporting women through labor and delivery, especially during C-sections. She’s not only a practicing physician but also an educator and advocate for integrating evidence-based medicine with patient-centered, trauma-informed care. After giving birth to her daughter via C-section in 2018 and her son via VBAC in 2020, Dr. Jen became even more passionate about improving the birth experience for others.  Her dear friend and co-host,  Bethany Scott, is also here to chick-chat with us. Bethany is a registered nurse, certified birth doula, and mom of three born via C-section — plus one angel baby. Her journey started in the fashion world, but after moving to New York City, she followed her true calling into women’s health. Bethany began as a doula, later transitioning to labor & delivery nursing and OB/GYN triage. Through her own powerful experiences with birth and postpartum, she recognized the lack of preparation resources specific to C-sections. She decided to create the kind of support she wished she had. Today, Bethany is passionate about helping women feel seen, supported, and empowered throughout birth and beyond.  She and Dr. Jen now share their insights and perspectives through their podcast, The C-section Experience Podcast, which helps women prepare for and process their birth stories with more confidence and compassion. What Did We Discuss? In this part 1 episode, Dr. Jen, Bethany, and I chick-chat about what really happens before, during, and immediately after a C-section — whether it’s scheduled or unscheduled — and how to make the experience feel more like a birth and less like a procedure. It's essential for moms to understand what options are available to them every step of the way, and we feel like this episode does that. Final Thoughts I hope this part 1 episode gives you the information that you were looking for to prepare for the procedure and your birthing experience. Next week, we are going to dive into more of the postpartum experience and what you can expect. Bethany + Jen's Resources Website: csxpodcast.com Instagram: @thecsxpodcast TikTok: @thecsxpodcast Thank you for listening to our podcast. Cheers to an empowered & supported cesarean birth! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Om Podcasten

Welcome to Chick Chat: The Baby Chick Podcast, your go-to podcast for navigating the crazy, beautiful chaos of pregnancy and motherhood!  We know that pregnancy and motherhood are no joke. While they are miraculous and wonderful, they can also be overwhelming and exhausting. Our baby expert and host, Nina Spears - The Baby Chick, knows this all too well as an experienced baby planner, doula, childbirth and newborn care educator, and mother. On this show, she has real conversations that celebrate the joys, challenges, and everyday triumphs of growing and raising tiny humans while exposing the truths that moms really want to know. From pregnancy tips to parenting hacks, our experts and real-life parents share stories, advice, tips, and laughter to guide you through the thrilling and wild adventure of raising your family. By tuning in to Chick Chat, expect candid discussions on everything from morning sickness and sleepless nights to first steps and parenting styles. You’ll hear expert insights on topics like pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, breastfeeding, formula-feeding, toddler tantrums, baby sleep, potty training, childproofing, self-care for parents, and so much more. Each episode is crafted with love and warmth, creating a village where mothers can find support, knowledge, and a community that understands the complex magic of motherhood. We understand the unique challenges that mothers face, and we’re here to empower moms with knowledge, support, and inspiration along the way! Whether you're a seasoned parent or awaiting the arrival of your little one, Chick Chat is here with the latest parenting trends, timeless advice, and genuine conversations that make you feel right at home. So, take a moment to relax, tune in, and let's “chick chat” about the joys and challenges of pregnancy, birth, and motherhood. Subscribe now to ensure you don't miss a single show; visit our website, baby-chick.com, for show notes, and connect with us on Instagram @thebabychickchat to continue the conversation together. Come be part of our growing community of moms supporting moms. Because in the world of motherhood, you deserve the village you’ve always dreamed of!