A c-section is a procedure in which incision are made in your abdomen and uterus to remove the baby, rather than delivering vaginally. Cesareans are quite common and most go smoothly, leading to a normal recovery. Here’s are five tips for a fast and full recovery.
1. Rest, rest, and rest some more.
Even without a C-Section, new moms need several days of rest. Don't worry about the laundry, the cooking, or anything else that normally makes your to-do list. Stock your fridge before you deliver, and call in favors for anything around the house that just can’t wait. Sleep when Baby sleeps. Focus on resting your body.
2. Engage in some mild activity.
Rest is important, but so is getting some physical activity. Don't do anything strenuous, like running or rearranging the furniture, but aim to get up and walk around the house at least once an hour or so. Walking will help your blood keep moving and prevent clots, as well as reminding your body that it has things to do eventually.
3. Drink plenty of clear fluids.
Fluids will help your body's cells remain hydrated so they can heal properly. Not only are you going to need extra water for breastfeeding, but enough hydration can also prevent constipation. Straining to use the bathroom is likely to be painful on the incision. So drink up and take the stool softeners prescribed by your obstetrician. If you’re not sure how much you should be drinking, the general rule is about half your bodyweight in ounces (so if you weigh 150 pounds, drink at least 75 ounces a day). Recovering from a cesarean or breastfeeding necessitates even more than that.
4. Follow pain management guidelines from your doctor.
In the hospital, your nurse will administer pain relievers on schedule; your doctor will likely send you home with prescription pain relievers. Use them. They will keep you from feeling too much pain, allowing easier rest and faster recovery. Eventually, the pain should subside enough that you will be able to transition to over-the-counter pain relievers. Be sure to ask your obstetrician or pediatrician which ones are safe if you are breastfeeding.
5. Go to your postpartum check-up, even if you feel fine.
Some women think they don't need that six week check up if they feel fine after their delivery. No matter how great you feel, you need to be evaluated to ensure there are no unnoticed complications or underlying conditions. This is especially important with a C-section. Your doctor needs to make sure both the incision and your uterus are healing well. Do not skip the post- partum check up.
Perhaps the most important part of healing from a cesarean is to make sure you don't expect too much from yourself during recovery. Plan to use your entire maternity leave, and accept help from loved ones when they offer. Don't feel guilty about snuggling with your newborn while someone else worries about daily chores. Follow your doctor’s instructions, and don’t forget to take care of you.
