My Best C-Section Recovery Tips


I had a birth plan with my first baby. A beautiful, unmedicated, doula & midwife assisted birth. When it ended in a c-section I suddenly had to re-adjust my head, heart and body to a whole new birth recovery experience. Since then I have had 9 more c-sections and will be welcoming baby #11 with my 10th. With this track record I have learned a thing or two about recovering from a c-section. Things I wish I knew with c-section number 1!  To help you recover from a c-section here are the best tips I've learned through my experiences.

Granny Panties - Gigantic, high waisted, un-sexy cotton panties that go right up over your belly button. They fit comfortably well over your scar and the typically huge bandage with plenty of room for your still swollen belly.

Rest - You have a newborn to care for 24/7 around the clock AND you just had massive abdominal surgery! Treat yourself like you are post-op -- because you are. For the first 2-3 weeks I would highly recommend you arrange 24 hour in-home support from your spouse or anyone else willing and able to help.

Only Lift The Baby - To avoid tearing your inner tissues only lift the baby for the first 6-8 weeks. Get someone else to lift the laundry hamper, toddler into bed, packages etc.

Freezer Meals - When people ask if there is anything we need I let them know that food is appreciated -- either prepared if they enjoy that or gift cards so we can order in. My hubby appreciates it so much as cooking is not his forte.

Meals for Me - I prepare individual serving microwaveable meals in advance that are lower carb & high protein so I stay low sugar and support my speedy recovery.

Stay Hydrated - Hydration is key to recovering from any surgery.  I keep a no spill flip top refillable water bottle nearby so that I can drink deeply every time I nurse to make sure I am keeping hydrated.

Nursing - I find sitting up easiest for the first few days with a pillow or two to support the baby rather than resting my arms on my abdomen. I keep a comfortable wingback chair in my room just for this purpose. Rockers may be harder to get in and out of.

Stay Ahead of the Pain - There is no need to experience debilitating pain post c-section.  In Canada where I live we leave the hospital with instructions to take alternating ibuprofen & acetaminophen every 4-6 hours. I set timers on my phone and wean myself of slowly after 7-10 days when I feel ready.

Visits With Kids - Plan daily visiting hours for your kids so they can look forward to a little visit with mom & baby. We like to play a short game, cuddle, talk & of course, take pics with the baby.

Look At Your Scar - To track your healing & help you come to terms with your body I highly recommend using a hand mirror to keep a visual tab on your healing. This has helped me head off topical infections that could get very painful. I also helped me when I developed an incisional hernia.

Listen to Your Body - If your belly is aching it's telling you to slow down, get off your feet and take care of yourself. If you develop a fever, redness, swelling, puss or start bleeding or clotting heavily get medical help ASAP.

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If this blog blessed you feel free to join my Big Family Moms community where I have lots more resources and encouragement for moms like you overcoming struggles and growing in grace. Here's the LINK if you like.

 

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