Post c-section dos and don’ts

Postpartum bleeding after a C-section

Bleeding after a c-section surgery lasts shorter than with a vaginal delivery, as after the surgery the doctor manually cleans and scrapes the uterus of all extra tissue, debris, and blood. While in the case of a vaginal delivery, the uterus contracts to push all the debris so the bleeding lasts longer.

C-section recovery

Recovery from a c-section, however, lasts longer due to the abdominal incision. It is essential to care for this incision, that we keep it exposed after a few days of surgery, always keep it clean and dry, and don’t apply any medication to allow it to heal properly. Extreme pain on the incision site, foul smell, and puss are red flags that you need to tell your doctor about.

Tips for postpartum after a C-section

• Get enough rest and try to sleep when the baby sleeps.
• If the doctor approves, wear a postpartum corset if it makes you feel more comfortable especially when you move, sneeze, or cough.
• A c-section like any abdominal surgery causes upset in your bowls. You will feel bloated and gassy, so consume a high-fiber diet, with a lot of fluids to avoid constipation.
• Drink Herbal drinks like cinnamon and anise tea, in limited amounts to avoid affecting breast milk.
• Take the prescribed pain medications, and don’t endure the pain without help.
• Don’t carry heavy weights for a few weeks until you get approval from your doctor.
• Breastfeed, as breastfeeding helps in the production of oxytocin that helps with the contractions that clean the uterus and allow it to return to its pre-pregnancy size. Breastfeeding strengthens the bond between you and your baby and improves your mood postpartum.
• Choose a comfortable breastfeeding position that won't press on your belly and incision. The football hold or the laying on your side positions are the most recommended.
• Watch for any signs of infections like high temperature, foul smell, or puss from the incision site.

Baby blues after a C-section

We can’t determine for sure that a mother will have baby blues or postpartum depression just for having her baby through a cesarean. Your mental state postpartum depends on many other factors like:

• Having a positive birthing experience.
• Prenatal education and preparation.
• Getting help and support postpartum.
• Premature delivery.
• The newborn health and well-being.

 

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