Understanding The Basics Of C-Section Recovery
If you are expecting a baby and your doctor has recommended that you have a cesarean section to deliver, it is important that you start planning now. The better prepared you are before the procedure, the easier the recovery is going to be. Here are a few things that you need to know about cesarean section deliveries and the recovery process afterward.
You Will Stay In The Hospital Longer
One of the things that many people don't realize is that the hospital stay is longer when you have a cesarean section than if you have a vaginal delivery. That's because you've just had surgery, so you need to be monitored more closely and you'll be a few days before you can go home.
Most vaginal deliveries lead to a hospital discharge within one to three days provided that there are no complications. However, a cesarean section means that you'll be in the hospital for at least five days in most cases. If there are any complications, the stay can be longer.
Rest Is Important
Your doctor will tell you that rest is an important part of your post-surgical recovery period. You need to be sure that you plan for plenty of rest after you go home. When you have a newborn, rest is often the last thing on your mind. However, proper recovery requires as much rest as you can get.
Make a point to work out an assistance schedule with your family and friends so that you have someone on hand to assist you with the baby's care and the other household needs for the first four to six weeks after the delivery. It takes up to six weeks to fully recover from a c-section, though you'll probably need less help as the time progresses.
Ask For Breastfeeding Support
Ask your obstetrics provider about support for breastfeeding if you're having a cesarean section. Breastfeeding can be a bit more challenging in the days and weeks following a c-section procedure because of the incision and the discomfort around it. You'll want to have a specialist to help you figure out the easiest and most comfortable positions for your baby to nurse while you're in the early recovery stages.
Walk When You Are Ready
As much as rest is recommended during the healing stages, you will also be told that you need to start walking around some during your recovery. Don't try to walk until you feel physically ready, but don't resist the process if you do feel like you're ready.
Even slow, gentle walks around the house or pushing the stroller to the mailbox can help. Take it slow and easy, and don't push yourself. Click here to get more info.
