C-section recovery : What to expect

What to expect after a C-section?

As per many studies, it is suggested that full recovery from a C-section takes 4-6 weeks. 

In the days after surgery, you can expect:

• Vaginal Discharge

This will continue likely for several weeks after delivery to get rid of the extra tissue and blood. The discharge will gradually get lighter from red blood, before it stops.

• Breast Swelling and soreness

The breasts swell up as they fill up with milk. You can help ease tenderness by nursing or pumping, and putting cold washcloths on your breasts between feedings.

• Afterpains

You might feel contractions, sometimes called afterpains during the first few days after the C-section. These sensations feel similar to menstrual cramps, but may be more intense.

• Hair and Skin changes

This is normal and is caused by changing hormone levels. When you were pregnant, high levels of hormones made your hair grow faster and fall out less.

• Weight loss

After your C-section, you might look like you're still pregnant. This is normal. Most women lose 13 pounds (6 kilograms) during birth, including the weight of the baby, placenta and amniotic fluid. During your recovery, you'll drop more weight as your body gets rid of excess fluids. After that, a healthy diet and regular exercise can help you return to your pre-pregnancy weight.

• Feeling blue

Also called the ‘Baby Blues’, this comes from hormone changes. While it is common to feel worried, anxious, or tired during the first few weeks, if you feel this way beyond couple of weeks, then call your doctor.

C-Section Incision Care

Here are some tips for taking care of your C-section incision:

• If the cut is closed with stitches, staples or glue, you should be able to remove the bandage and take showers, but check with your doctor first.

• Use mild soap and water and clean it lightly. Don’t scrub.

• Don’t soak in a bath or hot tub or go swimming until your doctor says you can.

• Take pain relievers to manage incision pain. Ask your doctor what they recommend.

• A heating pad can help with pain around your belly.

• Keep an eye out for any signs of infection.

Tips to Speed Your Recovery After a C-Section

1. Keep the incision area clean to prevent infections.

2. Don’t lift any heavy weight other than your baby for the first couple of weeks.

3. Drink lot of fluids

4. Eat fiber-rich foods and smaller, more frequent meals.

5. Try a fiber supplement if you are having constipation.

6. Visit your doctor regularly to monitor your health and assess the surgery site.

When to see a doctor after C-Section

After a C-section, people should call or see a doctor if they experience the following:

• Intense uterine cramps

• Uterine cramps that go away and then return

• Difficulty urinating

• Frequent headaches

• Anxiety or depression