how to heal and recover after your c-section

Recovering from a Cesarean section (C-section) is no small task. As a major surgery, it requires proper care and attention to heal optimally. As a maternal health expert and founder of boober, a platform for expectant and new parents to find care providers, from birth doulas, lactation consultants to mental health therapists, I’ve seen first-hand the challenges faced by parents who have had a C-section. Here are some tips on how to heal and recover after your C-section.  

1. Take it Easy: The first and most important tip is to listen to your body. Even if you feel good, remember that this isn’t the time to push yourself. Rest and sleep as much as possible, especially in the first few weeks. It’s crucial to get up and walk around to promote healing and reduce the risk of blood clots, but balance this with plenty of rest.
2. Focus on Nutrition: Good nutrition is key to recovery after birth, especially following a C-section. Eating a diet rich in protein, vitamins C and K, and iron can help your body repair tissues and build new ones. Hydrate well to support the body’s healing processes and maintain milk production if you’re breastfeeding.
3. Pain Management: C-section pain management is critical. Ask your doctor about safe options if you’re breastfeeding. You may be prescribed medication to manage your pain, but regular repositioning and using supportive items like pillows can also help relieve discomfort.
4. Practice Mindful Breathing: Deep breathing exercises can help reduce the risk of developing pneumonia, a potential complication after a C-section. These exercises can also have a calming effect, which may aid in overall recovery.
5. Care for Your Incision: Proper wound care is crucial following a C-section to prevent infection. Keep the area clean and dry, and follow all your healthcare provider’s instructions about showering and changing dressings.
6. Get Support: You’re recovering from a major surgery while also caring for your newborn, a dual task that can sometimes feel overwhelming. Enlist the help of your partner, a family member, postpartum doula, or a friend, especially in the first few days and weeks.
7. Pay Attention to Your Emotional Health: The physical aspect of your recovery is critical, but don’t overlook your mental and emotional wellbeing. The hormonal changes after childbirth combined with the stress of surgery and caring for a newborn can sometimes trigger postpartum depression or anxiety. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if you’re feeling overwhelmed, extremely anxious, or having disturbing thoughts.
8. Be Active: Once you’re given the green light by your doctor, gentle exercises can aid recovery. Walking can enhance circulation, promote bowel function, and potentially speed up recovery. But remember, this isn’t the time to jump back into high-intensity workouts.
9. Give Extra Care to Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding after a C-section may pose some challenges due to post-surgery discomfort. Experiment with different breastfeeding positions that don’t put pressure on your incision, like the football hold. A lactation consultant can provide invaluable support during this time.
10. Seek Professional Help: If you have any concerns about your recovery process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. Signs to watch out for include fever, worsening pain, redness or swelling at the incision site, heavy vaginal bleeding, or difficulty breathing.

Every person’s recovery from a C-section is unique. Listen to your body and give yourself grace during this healing process. The support of family and friends can significantly aid recovery. Don’t hesitate to use resources like boober to find postpartum doulas, lactation consultants, mental health therapists – these professionals are there to help during your transition to parenthood.