10 things that usually happen after a C-Section
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I had a C-section with the birth of my twins because baby “B” was breech. So, I had sometime to mentality prepare for it, even though you will never be fully prepared. Recovering from a C-section takes time and patience, it can be painful but so worth it everytime you look at your baby. Remember to ask for help when you need it and don’t try to be a super hero. You are a mom and you have to take care of yourself.
I have written two other articles about “ what to expect during a C-section” and “ What to avoid after having a C-section” that I really think you can benefit from and find helpful tips as well. Today’s article sort of ends my “mini” series on everything that has to do with having a C-section, but if I think of more helpful tips to write about, then expect that in the near future *wink* *wink*.
Today I’m sharing all about what usually happens after having a C-section. Things that you can expect and just be in the look out for because I like telling people what really happens. Don’t worry girl! I got your back 🙂 These things are sort of the “routine” of what you will go through after having a C-section and I experienced all of it. My mom and aunts that had C-sections also backed me up and so I’m super happy to share this with you. As you all know having a C-section is a major surgery and we need to treat it that way. Even though we don’t speak about it like it is, you know?
I hope you can find this 10 things that usually happen after a C-section helpful to you and I hope I answered most of your concerns regarding what to expect after your surgery. I wish you a happy labor and delivery and a speedy recovery of course!
10 things that usually happen after a C-section
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1.Bleeding
You will experience heavy bleeding right after your C-section, pretty much just like a vaginal birth. You will have to wear large pads and expect the bleeding to last for a couple of weeks.
Quick tip
Make sure tounderwear before giving birth so you can be prepared once you get home from the hospital.
2.Recovery room
Right after your C-section, you will be taken to a recovery room where the nurses will monitor you and make sure you are doing well after your surgery. The nurses will check your incision, body temperature, blood pressure and heart rate. You will also have plenty of time to bond with your baby and hubby while being in the recovery room. Once everything is good, you will then be taken to your room.
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Quick note
You will usually be in the recovery room for about an hour or so, it all depends on how well you are recovering. Once you’re ready to go to your regular room, your baby will be taken to the nursery to do further newborn tests. Make sure to rest during those first couple of hours alone without baby 🙂
3.Catheter comes off
Your catheter will be removed once your anesthesia wears off or the day after your C-section. It can be a little uncomfortable, so just be aware of that but it’s not painful at all.
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4.Pain
You may experience slight pain from your C-section incision, again it all depends on your pain level resistance. But, you shouldn’t worry because your nurse will give you pain medication if you ask for it. Don’t try to beat the pain, take your pain medication because it’s going to make you feel much better. Also, you will sleep more comfortable than if you were to be in pain.
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Quick tip
If you’re like me and do not like taking pills, I recommend you taking the pain medication the first night that you are there. Then if the second day you feel like you don’t need it, then don’t take it. Always take care of yourself and do what is best for you!
5.Eat after 24 hours
Okay, so this one all depends on your doctor. Many doctors make you wait 24 hours after you give birth before allowing you to eat. The reason for this, is that they want to make sure your organs are working properly after surgery, so until you pass gas or go to the bathroom they will not give you the “okay” to eat. You may be given liquids in the meantime 🙂
Quick tip
If you are really hungry, simply ask your nurse or doctor if you can eat. It never hurts to ask. Plus, if a certain amount of time has passed, your doctor may just give you the okay before the 24 hour period. Make sure you eat something light the first day and then proceed from there. If you’re not sure what to eat, ask your nurse, they will be happy to give you a helpful guide.
6.Pass gas and use the bathroom
What your doctor will be most concerned about is if after surgery you’re passing gas or have bowel movements. This is a great sign that you’re body is adjusting to it’s old self again. By you passing gas and going the the bathroom ensures that your are recovering normally. Your nurse will monitor the number of times you have bowel movements.
Quick tip
Do not hold in your gas and do not feel embarrassed when your nurse or doctor ask you if you have. It’s totally normal and it’s for your own good 🙂
7.Be active
One of the things that it’s recommended for you to do is to start walking right after you go to your room (after recovery room). You will be asked to walk slowly and at your own pace to the bathroom or to pick up your baby from their “bassinet”. You need to be active and even though it may be painful at first, it helps with your recovery.
Quick tip
You may need help walking to the bathroom or getting your baby the first day or two, rest assure that your nurse will help you. You can also ask your hubby, family and friends who are visiting to help you, that’s what I did 🙂
8.Nurses / doctor will check your incision
During your hospital stay, you will see a lot of visits from your obstetrician and nurses to check on your incision. They are going to ask you if you feel any pain or if you have any questions and all this kind of things. They will also make sure you are recovering well and will decided when it’s the right time for you to go home. Your baby’s pediatrician may even pay you a visit 🙂
9. Longer hospital stay
Your hospital stay will typically be around 3 to 4 days which is longer than if you give birth vaginally (typically 2 day stay). Having a C-section is a major surgery even though it may seem like it’s not. So, you need those extra days to recover well and your doctor also needs to make sure your incision, your blood pressure everything else is normal before giving you the green light to go home. Don’t worry the days will pass by fast and before you know it, you will be getting ready to take your baby home.
Quick tip
If you still feel pain or feel like you need to stay longer in the hospital, then please consult this with your doctor so you can stay longer. This of course also depends on your medical insurance and all that’s stuff. But, it’s your health and you need to do what you feel it’s best for you. Do not hesitate to ask to stay longer.
10.Incision check up with your doctor after 2 weeks
After two weeks of your C-section, you will have an appointment with your doctor so he/she can check on your incision. If you have staples or glue, he or she may take them off. It’s a little painful (I screamed, lol) but worth it. After 6 weeks you will have your regular postpartum appointment where you will also discuss the type of birth control to use 🙂
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Quick tip
This is the time to ask your doctor what ever questions or concerns you may have about your C-section recovery and incision.
These are most of the things that you should look out for and expect after having a C-section. Of course comment below if you had a different experience or if you experienced some of the things that I’ve mentioned!
I hope you found this article of the 10 things that usually happen after a C-section helpful and I wish you a save and fast recovery 🙂
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