6 Tips for C-Section Recovery
Oliver is 4 weeks old today which means I had my c-section 28 days ago! I still have some time to fully recover but am feeling so much stronger and more mobile. Today, I am sharing 4 tips that have helped me the most so far and 2 plans I have for my recovery in the future.
Pain Medication Schedule: Before I checked out of the hospital, a nurse informed me that many patients experience a decline in their comfort once they return home because they forget to take their medication on time. Even though she warned me about this, I was no exception. I forgot to take my meds on time the first few days and was in so much pain at one point that my entire body was shaking. My midwife made a house visit and noticed how much I was suffering. She encouraged me to take my medication that minute and took the initiative to write a new schedule out for me that I kept by my bedside. I didn’t want a ton of phone alarms which is why I chose a handwritten schedule, but phone alarms are definitely a wonderful option as well if you prefer it! Staying on top of my pain management was essential the first few weeks and I’m so grateful she helped me get back on track. I definitely recommend preparing for this in advance so that you don’t slip out of your medication routine once you get home.
Stool Softeners: In addition to the pain meds, don’t forget to take the stool softeners! I also recommend incorporating natural alternatives to add in like prune juice, celery juice, and a magnesium supplement. I noticed a huge difference once I began taking Magnesium Citrate so I’m linking the one I purchased here (affiliate). Be sure to check in with your health practitioner before adding in any supplements! Prior to my c-section, I never had major surgery before, so I had no idea that surgery could slow down your bowels. My original prescription was out of stock at Walgreens Pharmacy and I didn’t have access to my stool softeners until I called the doctor to get an alternative option a few days later. I had a few VERY painful poops and it was truly a nightmare. Be sure to stay on top of taking the prescribed stool softeners, along with the natural alternatives, until your body returns to normal.
Prepare to Have Help: Postpartum help is essential for any new parent, but especially for those who have a c-section delivery. Mario and I asked his mom to help us for the first few weeks in advance and she was able to come the day after we got home from the hospital. She stayed with us for several days the first two weeks and we truly couldn’t have had a smooth transition without her. She cooked for us, helped us clean, changed diapers, and watched Oliver while he napped so we could rest. She was also there for me when I needed a shoulder to cry on and helped me get up from the couch or bed whenever I needed it. Her support made a world of difference and I recommend asking for help from a friend or family member for the first 2-3 weeks because it’s really hard to do it all on your own as a couple.
Rest as Much as You Can: Prior to giving birth, all of my birthing classes emphasized how important rest was during recovery. My midwives in particular recommended 7 days IN the bed, 7 days ON the bed, and 7 days NEAR the bed. I followed these instructions and have been resting as much as I could. I had to get used to napping when the baby slept but even a month into recovery, I still take 1 nap while he sleeps almost daily. Sleep is essential for our bodies under regular circumstances, but especially when we go through a big change like childbirth whether it’s a vaginal or c-section delivery. I plan on continuing to take it very easy until I have my 6-week appointment and get an update from my doctor.
Belly Binder: When I was still hoping for a vaginal delivery, I planned on wearing a belly binder daily. Belly binders are common for c-section recovery as well and one nurse even offered to give me one to wear in the hospital, but I found it so uncomfortable that fresh into my recovery. I initially still planned on wearing one regularly, just not that soon. That was until the discharge nurse told me that belly binders don’t actually make your abs stronger and that it’s better to only wear on for more strenuous activity. So I haven’t worn one thus far in my recovery, but plan on wearing one once I start taking my long daily walks again or begin running errands. To fully recover from a c-section can take 3-4 months so I want to be sure I have the additional support when I become more active and really need it.
Scar Massage: I haven’t started this yet, but I was recently reading about how massaging the area around your incision can help the recovery process. It was recommended to begin after 6 weeks when the body has had more time to heal so I will likely check in with my doctor before I begin this. However, I feel it could be very beneficial to the healing process. The area surrounding my incision is still a bit numb and my understanding is that it can take a while to regain full sensation. I want to be sure my scar tissue doesn’t remain stagnant and plan on incorporating scar massages regularly once it’s safe!
These are a few key factors that have helped me a lot this past month along with some plans I have for the future. Whether you have a scheduled c-section or an unplanned one, I hope some of these tips can help improve your recovery experience!