Cesarean birth after care
The days following
the birth of a child, the postpartum period, can be one of the most difficult
times for mothers and their families. This period can be even more difficult
for mothers who have given birth by caesarean section. It is important for
mothers to take care of themselves after a caesarean section.
After any birth, the
mother must allow her body to rest and recover. Ideally, this means no
housework and harassment of other toddlers.
Since maternal
mortality is highest in the postpartum period, special attention should be paid
to the care of the mother. If you are a single mother or your partner needs to
return to work shortly after the baby is born, try to organize a support group
before the baby is born to help you during this time.
The support group may
include family members, church members, new mother support groups, or a
postpartum doula.
Take the time to
understand the limits of a new mother and the type of care that may be
required. Keep in mind that it is normal for a new mother to feel emotionally
overwhelmed and physically drained. Open communication with the doctor and
support group is very important.
Physical care after caesarean section
Before leaving from the hospital:
- You will be asked to get up and try to go to the toilet for the first 24 hours after surgery. This will help start the healing process and get you used to moving around with the incision. Remember to move slowly as you may feel dizzy or short of breath.
- Urinating after catheter removal can sometimes be painful. Ask the nurse or caregiver to suggest ways to make things easier for you.
- If staples were used for your incision, they will likely be removed before you leave the hospital.
- Discuss pain relief after surgery with your doctor. If you think you need medicine, get a prescription and information about side effects for you and your baby if you are breastfeeding. If you prefer to avoid medications, talk to your doctor about alternatives that are safe for you and your baby.
- Your uterus will begin the process of "involution", that is, shrinking of the uterus to the size that existed before pregnancy. You will begin to bleed profusely with bright red blood. This is called lochia and can last up to 6 weeks. You will need extra absorbent sanitary pads that the hospital will need to provide you after your delivery. Do not use tampons during this time.
- Gentle strolls around the hospital or rocking in a chair can help speed up recovery and reduce gas that can form after abdominal surgery.
After returning home:
- Your activity level should be kept low until your doctor suggests you increase your activity. At first, you should avoid lifting anything heavier than your child and avoid most household chores.
- Your bleeding from lochia will change over time and may increase with changes in activity and position. Use your bleeds to make sure you're not doing too much activity. Lochia will eventually change to pale pink or dark red, and then to yellowish or clear.
- Make sure you drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and eat healthy foods to restore your energy and prevent constipation.
- Keep changing tables and feeding supplies near you so you don't have to get up too often.
- Be alert for any fever or pain that could be signs of an infection.
What to avoid
- Sex until your doctor says it's safe
- Using tampons or showers
- Taking a bath until your incision heals and you no longer bleed.
- Public pools and hot tubs
- Lifting something heavier than your child
- Repeatedly using stairs
- Exercise, at least until your doctor gives you the go-ahead
Emotional care after caesarean section
- Spend more time every day to sit and talk with your child.
- If you have difficulty breastfeeding after a caesarean section, seek advice and support from a lactation consultant.
- Understand that you may need time for emotional decompression after surgery, especially if the procedure is an emergency.
- To help deal with any negative attitudes toward your experience, discuss the birth experience with your caregiver.
- Get clarification from your doctor for any questions you may have about your pregnancy experience. This can help alleviate any anxiety you may have about getting pregnant again.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help! The extra physical care needed after a caesarean section can make a woman feel inadequate, depressed, and alone.
Reasons to see a doctor immediately
- High fever
- Severe headache that begins right after birth and does not let up in intensity
- Sudden onset of pain in the abdominal area, such as tenderness to touch or burning sensation
- Foul odor from vaginal discharge
- Sudden onset of pain in the incision area that can include a pus discharge
- A swollen, red, painful area in the leg
- Burning urination or blood in the urine
- The appearance of rash or hives
- Extremely heavy bleeding that soaks a maxi pad within an hour, or the passing of large clots
- A sore, red, painful area on the breasts that may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms
- Feelings of anxiety, panic, and/or depression