Did you know that 1 in 3 women have c-sections in the United States? Yes and this number is increasing each year. I myself had a c-section for the birth of my twins. That’s why I’m sharing with you the things to do after a c-section. So you can heal properly and quick!
Having a c-section is a major surgery, even though we may not associate it that way. It’s important to understand and to know what are the things that you should do right after having a cesarean section. Take this post as the do’s after having a csection.
You may have a lot of questions regarding your c-section recovery and I’m here to help! In this article you’ll find home remedies that are going to help you with your csection healing. I’m also sharing with you some of the most common questions women asked after having a cesarean section.
How long does it take for a cesarean to heal?
It takes up to 6 weeks to heal completely.
How painful is a c-section recovery?
I’ll be honest, it is painful! It literally hurts to laugh, cough and even sneeze. But, rest assure that with each day that passes by, you are going to feel less pain. Also, do not forget to take your pain medication if need to.
When should I expect my period after Csection?
Your official period will start within 5 to 6 weeks after your recovery. This factor also depends if you’re planning on breastfeeding, which can effect your period.
If you’re exclusively breastfeeding, you will not get your period until you wean off your baby. (Source)
10 things you should do immediately after a c-section
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1.Rest
One of the first things to do after a c-section is to rest. Your body needs to heal properly and painlessly. Which means the more you rest the faster your recovery will be.
2.Pass gas
Yes, akward!! But, everyone from your doctor to your nurses are going to wait and see if you pass gas. This only ensures that your body is healing and it’s an indication that your digestive system is going back to normal. Yay!
3. Move around
You are going to be advised to start taking your first steps a few hours after your c-section surgery. Even though this may be the last thing that you want to do, trust me it’s beneficial to you and your healing body.
Walking can help clear your lungs, improve circulation and promote positive healing.
4. Drink plenty of liquids
The first 24 hours after a c-section, you will not be able to eat any solids. So, drink plenty of liquid. Stay hydrated as it helps with constipation, maintain your energy level and helps you not feel gassy.
5. Breastfeeding
Did you know that fewer women who had cesarean births start breastfeeding or they quit breastfeeding sooner? It is important to get educated and get the help you need in order to reach your lactation goals. I suggest you check out this breastfeeding resource!
Having this type of surgery may delay milk production. If you want to breastfeed successfully and learn as much as you can about it, check out Milkology!
6. Move your legs and ankles
Like I’ve mentioned before, moving is very good for your overall recovery. If you can’t seem to get yourself up the first day after your cesarean, then I suggest to simply move your legs and ankles. Make easy circular movements back and forth. This helps and prevents blood clots!
You may find that wearing compression socks can help tremendously. I wore it when I was in the hospital 🙂
7. Care for your incision
Caring for your c-section incision is not hard at all. In fact just make sure you remember these things to do after a c-section and you’ll be closer to the road of recovery.
Do’s of a C-section:
- Make sure you do not scratch incision area
- Look out for swelling and infection
- keep incision area dry and clean
- Hold pillow over incision area if you need to cough, sneeze or laugh (reduces pain)
Here are more helpful csection articles:
11 fast and realistic c-section recovery tips
7 things you should avoid after a C-section
8. Eat food rich in fiber
Food rich in fiber helps combat constipation. Some of the food you can start eating right now are:
- Fresh fruits
- Fresh vegetables
- nuts
- beans
I recommend checking out the Postpartum Cure program! In this amazing program for postpartum moms, you’ll learn how to properly nourish your body, so you can heal quickly, produce a healthy milk supply and lose the baby weight.
9. Sleep on your back
Sleeping while recovering from a cesarean section can be uncomfortable. So, I found that sleeping on your back is your best bet. Because you won’t rub your incision area and also helps you not put pressure on it.
10. Take it one day at a time
I know that having a c-section and recovering from it is not easy. It takes time and a lot of patience. It is difficult to care for yourself and also care for your newborn. That’s why it’s crucial for you to not skip any of these tips and always ask for help.
Take it one day at a time and you will see that you’re going to start feeling better, regaining your energy and healing properly and quickly!
I want you to feel encouraged about your c-section healing and your road to recovery. Stay positive and know that you will soon start feeling like yourself again!
I hope you found these tips useful and helpful in healing from your c-section.
resources:
Mayo clinic: Guide to a healthy pregnancy book
Pregnancy childbirth and the newborn book
