The first few days after caesarean section
If you had a caesarean section, sometimes referred to as C-section, your stay in the hospital should average about three days after the surgery. During this time, you will be given pain medication as necessary. You may need narcotic medication such as morphine.
Despite the use of medication, you will be quite sore. At first, you may experience soreness at your incision site. Soon after, you will feel cramp-like “after pains” when your uterus starts to contract and shrink in size. Your bladder, which is attached to your uterus, will probably be bruised, and you will need to urinate often so your bladder does not get too full.
The next thing you will notice while in the hospital is the development of gas. Gas can be very uncomfortable, especially if it occurs under your incision site. If you find the gas to be painful, ask your nurse or doctor for help. Walking helps your body to pass gas.
You will be encouraged to try to walk again within 24 hours of your caesarean section, with the help of the nursing staff. First, you’ll sit up with the nurse’s help. Then, your nurse will provide you with support as you slide your legs over the side of the bed. Slowly, with support, you will stand on the floor. You may feel dizzy at this point, and might need to sit down and try again later. After you can stand up for a minute or so, try taking a couple of steps. Try to keep your body as straight as possible, although this may be painful.
If your stitches are not self-absorbing, they will need to be removed a few days after the surgery. This should not be painful but it might be uncomfortable. When the dressing is off, ask the nurse to explain what to expect in terms of the normal healing process, and what signs of infection to watch for.
Making a full recovery after caesarean section
A full recovery from caesarean section usually takes about six weeks. During that time, you may need pain medication. At first, you will need to walk carefully to avoid stretching your abdomen, and you will need some help going up and down stairs. You should avoid lifting anything over 10 lbs and refrain from driving for the first few weeks. If you notice any infection around the incision site, pain in your calves, fever, worsening abdominal pain, or other symptoms that worry you, see your health care provider as soon as possible.
During your recovery, you will feel exhausted. Women who give birth by caesarean section have a much more difficult time regaining their energy compared with those who give birth vaginally. You will need extra help to take care of your baby during this time, either from your partner or someone else like your mother, a friend, or a hired caregiver.
Breastfeeding after caesarean section
Some women find it difficult to breastfeed after having a baby by caesarean section. If you find breastfeeding a challenge, ask your health care provider to refer you to a lactation consultant. A lactation consultant can provide home visits, education, and counselling to help you with breastfeeding. |