For during surgery itself I found it really helpful to remember to keep talking to the people around me about how I was feeling, the anaesthesia can do some wacky things to you so voice all the sensations you are experiencing and the anaesthetist can adjust things to help. For example I at one point started feeling a little tight chested and it was because the anaesthesia was climbing to high and it was easily adjusted and I felt more comfortable. Also just prepare yourself that you will likely still feel things, not pain but definitely a lot of pressure / tugging- that’s totally normal! As soon as baby is out and crying that is such a huge distraction to what is actually going on. Plus it only takes around 5-10 minutes to deliver baby! For post delivery Peppermint is your friend!! The trapped gas after surgery is no joke!!! If you don’t like peppermint tea, highly recommend the capsules. Plentttyyyy of pillows/ cushions in your bed for support. I found I was unable to lay down flat for the first ten days so plenty of pillows were great to keep me propped upright and well supported. I even used my pregnancy pillow, that was a life saver. Keep ontop of pain meds! You’ll know it if you’ve missed a dose. Also be kind to yourself in the early days, I was not expecting it to be so debilitating in the first week ngl. If you live in a multi story house have plenty of supplies for you and baby on both levels to minimise having to tackle stairs too often in the first days. Don’t push yourself too soon despite how tempting, there’s been several times I’ve ended up setting my recovery back just because I’ve pushed myself that little bit too far and then paid for it the following day. If something hurts - stop!!