A Caesarian Section, or C-Section, is a surgical procedure to deliver a baby through an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. According to U.S. Centers for Disease Control, about 33 percent of American women who gave birth in 2011 had a C-Section delivery.
C-Section can either be planned, or done in response to an unforeseen complication. However, a Caesarian delivery may be necessary if:
- The mother has multiple fetuses.
- There are complications in labor, such as labor not progressing normally.
- The baby’s health is in danger.
- The fetus is too large to be delivered vaginally.
- There are problems with the placenta.
- The mother has an infection such as HIV or herpes.
- The infant is in a breech position i.e. upside down.
In order to prepare for C-Section, the mother is given pain medication with an epidural block, a spinal block, or general anesthesia. During the procedure, the baby is delivered through incisions in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. Stitches that dissolve later are used to close the uterus, as well as on the skin on the abdomen.
Although caesarian delivery is safe, it is still a major abdominal surgery and comes with its share of risks and complications. If you’ve had a caesarian delivery, you might have to spend three to four days in the hospital. Recovery from C-section takes much longer as compared to a vaginal delivery.
Do’s and Don’ts after Caesarian delivery
If you’ve had a C-Section, here are some things you should keep in mind after the delivery:
- Rest as much as possible
It goes without saying that like any other surgery, recovery from Caesarean section too takes time. So don’t be in a hurry to hit the gym as soon as you’re back from the hospital. Get as much rest as possible in the first week. Even if you feel fine, avoid heavy work for at least six to eight weeks.
- Don’t lift heavy objects
Observe the rule of thumb – don’t lift anything heavier than your newborn, especially during the first six weeks. This enables your abdominal muscles to heal properly. You may even find it difficult to get up from a lying down position. So you can try to roll on your side and then get up more comfortably.
- Care for your incisions
You might feel an itchy sensation around your stitches when they’re healing. Ask your doctor about creams or lotions that you can use to get some relief. Once the stitches are dissolved, you can get gentle massages to help you recover. If you need any kind of help while recovering from your C-section, we at KIMS Cuddles can ensure your every need is heard.
- Get help for constipation
Many women experience constipation after C-Section. Some are even scared to have a bowel movement as they think it might open their stitches. You can ask your doctor for stool softeners that you can take. Also increase the amount of fluids – drink more water, fruit juices and eat lots of fruits.
- Avoid foods that can make abdomen uncomfortable
Experiencing gas can make your abdomen uncomfortable. You might experience pain and irritation after trying certain gassy foods and aerated beverages. Eat light and healthy foods to get some relief.
- Talk freely with your partner as well as your doctor
Hormone levels fluctuate in the postpartum period. If you’re experiencing stress, mood swings or feeling low, talk to your partner and express your feelings. In extreme cases, like severe postpartum depression, you might need medical attention. So discuss with your doctor as to what course of action is most appropriate for you. We at KIMS Cuddles make sure we take care of your emotional health as well.
- See your doctor if you experience:
- Excessive bleeding from vagina
- Redness and pus in the wound
- Severe pain in the wound area
- Swelling in your legs
- High-grade fever
- Go for follow up visits
It is important to go for follow-up check up to ensure you’re healing properly. Your doctor can also advice you on contraception because it is important to space pregnancies post C-Section.
The doctors at KIMS Cuddles will guide you through and beyond your Caesarean section. We ensure childbirth and baby care is stress free for the mother.
*The opinions presented in this article are not to be substituted for medical advice under any circumstance
