Over 50? Keeping Up With Your Healthcare Needs

Recovering From A Cesarean Section

2 March 2016

Nellie Ryan

If you had just given birth via an emergency Cesarean section, and you did not study this procedure before you went into the hospital to give birth, you may wonder how to handle your recovery properly. Recovering from a major surgery at the same time you are trying to enjoy the new baby you now have in your life can be a bit overwhelming. Here are some steps you can take to ensure you stay relaxed and comfortable when recovering from a C-section birth.

Rest As Much As Possible

The first week or two you are home with your new baby, you will need help from another person as you will still be having difficulty getting around as your body heals. Take advantage of any help offered! Having someone make meals, do laundry, and take the baby for short stints so you can sleep will be helpful in your healing.

Use Medication As Directed

When you are healing from a C-section, you will be prescribed pain medication to use at home as you heal. Do not wait too long between doses as your pain may return during the interim. It would then take a few dosages to get the desired results in being completely pain-free.

Continue To Breastfeed

Some women wonder how they will be able to breastfeed their baby when their abdomen is in pain. You can try to hold them in the football hold or try the side lying position. Each of these do not require you to place your baby near your incision. The pain will decrease as time goes on, making breastfeeding easier as a result. Do not give up! Ask your doctor for some recommended breastfeeding latch positions that will not be painful for you in the process.

Tend To Your Incision

Most women worry about the condition of their incision after a Cesarean section. The incision will start to itch as it begins to heal. Try your best not to scratch at it so you do not get bacteria near the wound. Change your dressing regularly and keep the incision dry for a few days. Your doctor will give you specific instructions. Do not hesitate to call them with any questions if you feel it is not healing properly.

Be Prepared For Gas

As your bowels get back up and running, you will find you may have some painful gas pains. This can be alleviated by pressing a pillow against your abdomen as you pass gas. It may take a few days before you have your first bowel movement. Be sure to drink plenty of water to help soften your stool. If your doctor did not prescribe a stool softener, give them a call to see if they can do so to help your first bathroom experience after birth go by with minimal effort. 

Ask an obstetrician, like those at Wooster Obstetrics and Gynecology Inc and other offices, for more helpful tips and information.

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