What to expect from a cesarean section?
When the time comes for your
baby to be born, if there is a possibility of a problem for you or the baby,
your doctor may advise you to have a cesarean section. This is a surgical
procedure that allows your baby to come out through a small incision in the
abdomen and uterus.
While some cesarean sections
are planned, others are not. Therefore, it is helpful to understand what
recovery will look like, even if a cesarean section is not part of your birth
plan.
What to expect
A cesarean section is a major
surgical procedure that requires anesthesia. Unless you need an emergency
C-section, the form of anesthesia you receive will usually keep you awake
during labor. You may need to stay in bed for the entire day after this. You
should expect to stay in the hospital for 2-4 days. The total recovery time can
last up to 6 weeks.
You may not feel any
discomfort right after the operation. But as the anesthesia wears off, you may
start to feel pain, especially around the cut. Expect to be tired and you may
need help to lift your newborn.
Other side effects of the
surgery include:
- Constipation and gas
- Vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Cramping
- Itchiness
- Nausea
Make your recovery easier
Rest helps you recover from
any type of surgery. So when your baby sleeps, you should sleep too. Drink
plenty of fluids to help restore what you lost during surgery and
breastfeeding.
If you have pain, talk to your
doctor. You can take painkillers even if you are breastfeeding. And as soon as
your doctor gives you the go-ahead, get up and walk around. If you're
constipated, walking can help keep you moving. It will also help prevent blood
clots and related problems.
The most important thing is to
listen to your doctor. Avoid doing what you normally do until your doctor says
you are fine. Do not lift anything heavy or do anything that could put pressure
on the incision. And hold your stomach when you sneeze or cough.
Infection prevention
Other precautions you should
take after a cesarean section will help prevent infection. You should avoid sex
or put anything in your vagina, even a tampon, for a few weeks. Contact your
doctor if you have:
- A fever higher than 38 C
- Pain worsening at your incision
- Redness, swelling, or a discharge at your incision area
- Discomfort when you pee
- Heavy vaginal bleeding or a foul-smelling discharge
- Leg pain or swelling
It's okay to be disappointed if a cesarean wasn't your first choice. Try to focus on your health and the health of your baby, and not on the delivery method. If you feel depressed or sad for more than 2 weeks, talk to your doctor.