As well as the epidural in your back, you will have a catheter inserted to drain your bladder, and a drip in your arm or hand to give extra fluids or pain relief if needed. You may also have a heart monitor on. A screen will be put up while the procedure is taking place. Some partners like to peek over the screen but others prefer not to see what is happening. You may like your doctor to tell you what he is doing, so that you know the minute your baby is born.
Many parents like to have music playing in the theatre as well.
Your baby is then lifted out. It only takes a few minutes. Your baby will be quickly checked over by the paediatrician and then shown to you. If your baby is very small or unwell he may need to go straight to the special care baby unit. Otherwise your partner can hold him while the placenta is delivered and you are stitched up.