A WORD FROM DR BRONWYN MOORE

“The cost of the procedure varies significantly,” says Dr Bronwyn Moore, a gynaecologist and obstetrician at Netcare Park Lane Hospital in Gauteng. Her advice is to get a quotation for all the costs, which include that of the obstetrician (and assistant), the paediatrician, anaesthetist and the hospital costs. Find out what proportion will be covered by your medical aid. Think about taking out gap cover before falling pregnant to cover shortfalls. As far as recovery time goes, you should be up and about the day after the operation, but bank on not driving for two to three weeks. You should be able to resume a gentle exercise routine at six to eight weeks. Dr Moore cautions that this all depends on your mindset and whether you’re fit and healthy before the procedure. Lastly, make sure you discuss all the risks and benefits with your healthcare practitioner before making a final decision about how you want to give birth to your baby. All the alternatives for delivery have their pros and cons, but the final choice is up to you.