You Got This, Mom: 4 Tips for C-Section Recovery

Your body goes through a lot to bring a baby into the world. That’s especially true if you undergo a cesarean section. Also known as a C-section, this common procedure is often unplanned, so it’s important for all mothers-to-be to know what to expect from C-section recovery. If you have a C-section, you may be able to resume normal activities in six to eight weeks. In the meantime, use the following four tips to navigate your C-section recovery.

Read More: The Ins and Outs of Natural Childbirth

1. Lay the Groundwork for a Successful C-Section Recovery.

A C-section is a significant abdominal surgery. Consequently, your C-section recovery begins with a few days of care in the hospital. During this time, your maternity team, including obstetricians and gynecologists (OBGYNs), monitor you for complications and prepare you to continue your recovery at home. While you are in the hospital:

• Ask questions about what to expect when you go home and pay close attention to your maternity providers’ recommendations.
• Be open with the maternity team about any discomfort you experience, such as surgical scar pain or pain during urination, so they can deliver treatments to help.
• Take short walks down the hall or around the unit when your maternity providers say it’s OK
• Use the bathroom as soon as the medical team recommends after surgery, which can help with healing.

2. Know What to Expect From Your Body During C-Section Recovery.

Once you go home, you’ll likely notice your body behaving differently than usual. As your body heals, it’s not unusual to experience:

• Heavy vaginal bleeding. This is known as lochia, and it can occur for up to six weeks after you have your baby. At first, the blood will be bright red. Over time, however, the blood and discharge will fade to lighter colors. Wearing menstrual pads intended for heavy bleeding can help you deal with lochia.
• Hemorrhoids. These are swollen veins in the rectum. Over-the-counter ointments can help reduce swelling. Additionally, you can sit in warm, shallow water — just be sure it doesn’t cover your C-section scar.
• Pain while breastfeeding. Try lying on your side when breastfeeding. That can take pressure off of your abdomen and reduce discomfort.
• Surgical scar tenderness. As your scar heals, it may be tender for several weeks or appear pink and puffy. However, as time passes, the scar will flatten, and its color will fade. Change your bandage at least once daily and gently wash the incision but don’t submerge it in water.

Read More: What Is a High-Risk Pregnancy?

3. Watch for Signs of Concern.

Illness or complications can sidetrack your C-section recovery. That’s why it’s important to watch for concerning symptoms and report them to your primary care provider or OBGYN right away. These symptoms include:

• Calf pain
• Extreme sadness or thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby, which could be signs of postpartum depression
• Fever higher than 100 degrees Fahrenheit
• Heavy vaginal bleeding for more than four days in a row
• Increased abdominal pain
• Persistent headache
• Rapid weight gain
• Signs of surgical site infection, such as redness or swelling
• Swelling of the hands, legs, face or eyes
• Vaginal discharge with a foul odor
• Vision changes
• Warmth, redness or tenderness in the breasts, which could be signs of infection

4. Prioritize Self-Care.

As you settle into the postpartum period, don’t disrupt your recovery by trying to do too much too soon.

“Your recovery after a C-section may take more or less time than other new moms’, and that’s perfectly fine,” says Dr. Tiffany Bersani, an OBGYN who sees patients at both the Beaufort and Okatie locations of Beaufort Memorial Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialists. “If you rush your recovery timeline, you could end up setting the healing process back. Your ability to provide the best care for your baby depends on your health. Consequently, it’s important to care for yourself and respect your limitations to give your body time to heal. That means listening to your body. For example, rest when you feel tired, and don’t lift anything heavier than your baby for at least six weeks after surgery.”

You can do much more to promote health and healing, including:

• Delegate everyday tasks. Lean on your spouse, partner, family and friends to take care of chores and errands. Use your time to rest and bond with your baby.
• Eat light and healthy. Throughout the day, eat several small meals and snacks. Include fruits and vegetables to ensure you get plenty of fiber, which can help prevent constipation.
• Keep moving (but don’t overdo it). Light activity, such as short walks, helps your body stay strong as it heals. On the other hand, moderate or intense exercise can be detrimental during recovery.
• Postpone sex. Your primary care provider or OBGYN will tell you when it’s OK to have sex, likely around six weeks after surgery.
• Seek support. Swap recovery and parenting tips with other new mothers. Listening to their stories and advice can be reassuring and help you build a network of support.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids to help avoid constipation.
• Take showers, not baths. It’s important to keep your incision above water, so don’t take baths or go in pools or hot tubs.

By putting your health first, you give yourself the best chance of a successful C-section recovery — and your baby a great start to life.

Are you looking for a gynecologist to help you after the birth of your baby? Request an appointment with one of our providers in Beaufort or Okatie or Port Royal.