Recovering from a C-section is a different experience than recovering from a vaginal delivery. Your body was just cut open, organs moved around, and your baby was hand pulled from your uterus. This is a whole different ball game. Not easier or harder, but different.
One delivery option isn’t “better” than the other, certain birth plans work better for certain women. However your baby arrives is a miracle and you are a strong Mama! Whether your C-section was planned or unexpected, your recovery will look different than a vaginal delivery and I am here to give you some advice.
Manage Your Pain
Your incision, and body in general, will be sore. Manage your pain around the clock if necessary to help make your recovery as smooth as possible. Alternate Tylenol and Motrin, or whatever medication your doctor suggests for you. While you do have to take care of yourself, you also have a new little one to take care of as well, so do what you can to help you be the best mama you can be at this moment.
Rest & Take It Easy
I know you want to laugh, “I’ll have a newborn, when am I supposed to rest?!” This is when your family, friends and support person are important to your recovery. If you can, sneak off for a nap here and there. Snuggle with your newborn on the couch and take it slow. The best way for your body to recover is to rest and take it easy. Don’t worry about standing at the sink to do dishes right now, let someone else handle the laundry and heavy lifting. When you walk, walk slowly. When you get up off the couch or your bed, do so gingerly. If you need to reach up or bend over, be very careful.
Take Care of Your Incision
Follow directions from your doctor regarding the care of your incision. Don’t stand directly under the running water in the shower. If your doctor prescribed any topical medications, use as directed. Be mindful of the clothes you are wearing, as to not irritate your incision.
Grab The Recovery Essentials
Make sure your medicine cabinet is stocked with pain medication. Find a good pillow(s) to help keep you slightly elevated when you sleep, as you won’t be able to lay flat. Invest in a belly binder or two, the pressure will help with your recovering incision. Also, take the extra supplies the hospital is offering you – this includes diapers, extra large pads, peri bottle, etc. You would rather have too many supplies on hand, than not have what you need, when you need it.
During a C-section you can’t necessarily do anything during the actual delivery, because you will be numb from the waist down, a curtain will be up and you will be laying on the table under close medical care and supervision. After the delivery though, is when you are back in control and need to take care of yourself. If you find yourself nervous about an upcoming C-section, or simply want to gather more information, I encourage you to check out the blog Surviving Your C-Section: What To Expect. It covers everything from preparation to recovery. Wishing you all the best Mama in your delivery and recovery!