Breath work and Breathing During a C-Section [42]

Jen and Bethany explore how breath work and breathing techniques can support women before, during, and after a C-section. They break down how methods like Lamaze and hypnobirthing, often associated with vaginal birth, can be adapted to the c-section experience to reduce anxiety, promote calm, and enhance a sense of control.

They discuss:

• How breath work can reduce preoperative anxiety and help during c-section recovery

• The basics of Lamaze breathing and how to use it in the OR

• How hypnobirthing techniques like deep breathing and positive affirmations can be calming even during surgical birth

• The role of partners in supporting breathing and emotional regulation

• Why breathing can feel strange or difficult during a c-section due to spinal anesthesia, and how to manage that sensation

• Practical tips for integrating breath work into both the surgical birth itself and postpartum healing

Whether you’re planning a scheduled C-section, preparing for the possibility of one, or recovering from a prior experience, this episode offers simple, non-pharmacologic tools to help you breathe easier.