Most c sections aren’t planned and you may be surprised at the recovery period. Keep in mind that a c section is major surgery and give your body the time it needs to heal. It takes about six weeks to feel better after the c section. Don’t try to do too much too fast and follow your doctor’s instructions.
In the hospital, take the pain medications you are offered. Don’t try to be brave and deal with the pain. You just had surgery. There are medications that are safe for breastfeeding mothers. Make sure your doctor knows you are nursing, so he can prescribe the right medicine.
The nurses will get you up and moving around within twenty four hours of surgery. This may be painful, but it is important. Pain medication will help with the discomfort. Walking will help you heal faster and will prevent complications. It will also help with the gas pain in your abdomen.
You will be able to breastfeed your baby as soon as you feel up to it. The cradle hold may be uncomfortable, due to your incision. The football or side lying positions may be better. These positions keep the baby off your incision. The nurse or lactation consultant can help you master these positions.
In most cases, you will go home about four days after the surgery. Before you go home, you will be given instructions for the care of your incision and regarding activity. Follow all the directions during recovery. You will also be given a list of warning signs. Call your doctor if you experience any of these signs.
Once you get home, remember you are recovering from surgery. Take it easy and don’t try to do too much. Sleep when the baby sleeps and get plenty of rest. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Let your husband, mother, other family member or friend pitch in to help. If possible, hire a cleaning service for the first month to help with the cleaning.
You will experience pain around the incision for the first few weeks. Avoid heavy lifting during this time. A pillow can be used for supporting your abdomen. Limit the number of trips you make up and down the stairs. The rate of recovery varies among women. For some, it can take up to six months to completely heal. Others feel great in a few weeks. Listen to your body and give yourself all the time you need to heal.
Some women need to heal emotionally as well. Since most c sections are not anticipated, you may not have had time to adjust to the idea. If you had planned a natural delivery and ended up with a c section, you may feel upset. Some women feel like failures, while others are angry at being denied the birth they wanted. Try not to dwell on this. The most important thing is a healthy baby. If you still want the natural birth, you may be able to have a VBAC next time.
The emotional impact should not be ignored. Some studies have shown a slightly higher rate of post partum depression among mothers who have had a c section. Be aware of this possibility. If you begin having symptoms of post partum depression, help is available. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms.