Having a c-section? Not sure how to plan? Consider these helpful tips!

Recovering from a C-section requires special care and attention for optimal healing and comfort. Here are some tips to help you through the recovery process:

Consider the 5-5-5 Rule

• 5 days IN bed: Spend the first 5 days resting in bed to minimize movement and allow your body to start healing.

• 5 days ON the bed: Spend the next 5 days mostly in/on the bed, but you can move around a bit more as tolerated.

• 5 days AROUND the bed: Spend the next 5 days moving gently around your room or home, gradually increasing activity levels.

• Keep physical activity to a minimum in the immediate postpartum period. Remember, you just had surgery! And you had a baby! It’s a double-whammy!

• No heavy lifting, intense exercise, and other strenuous activities for at least 6 weeks or as advised by your doctor.

Take What You Need

• Stay ahead of pain: Use pain medication as prescribed by your doctor. It helps to stick to a medication schedule for the first few days so pain doesn’t sneak up on you. 

• Set alarms or put your partner in charge of managing this. 

• Use stool softeners: The softer your poop, the easier it is to pass, reducing strain!

• Drink lots of water: Staying hydrated can both help you poop AND help with milk production if you are breastfeeding.

Give Yourself Props

• Foot stool: Use it when sitting to improve comfort.

• Shower chair: Makes showering easier and less tiring.

• Pillows are your friends!

• Bathroom pillow: Gently press a small pillow to your stomach when passing a bowel movement.

• Coughing/laughing support: Gently press a pillow to your stomach to support it while laughing or coughing.

• Seated comfort: Put pillows behind your back when seated.

Movement

• Gentle walking: Walking helps with gas pain and promotes circulation. Start out with small walks around the house.

• Log rolling: Helps you get in and out of bed without straining your abdominal incision.

• To get up: Roll to your side, then blow out as you move from your side to sitting. 

• Avoid jackknifing to minimize abdominal strain.

• To lie down: Sit at the edge of the bed, lean to lie on your side, then roll on your back. 

Support

• Visitor lists: Have lists ready for visitors detailing how they can help you, such as running errands, cooking, or cleaning.

• Ask a close friend or relative to set up a meal train for you. Be sure to let them know your likes and dislikes! 

• Lactation consultant: If you are breastfeeding or pumping, seek help from a lactation consultant to ensure you and your baby are comfortable and getting the support you need.

• OB/Midwife: Attend all postpartum check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your recovery and address any concerns.

• Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: You can start seeing a pelvic floor physical therapist 6 weeks postpartum or once cleared by your doctor. We will:

• Do a pelvic floor exam– your pelvic floor did carry a baby!

• Assess the scar, do scar massage, and teach you how to do your own scar massage. 

• Rehab and strengthen the abdominal wall.

Red Flags

• Contact your doctor if you notice any of the following signs of possible infection:

• Fever

• Warmth around the incision

• Increased pain

• Oozing at the incision site

By following these tips and listening to your body, you can promote a smoother and more comfortable recovery after a C-section. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.