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The prospect of recovering from a C-section combined with the joys and responsibilities of caring for your newborn can be intimidating ~ here's a little overview of what to expect, and how to make C-section recovery easier.
Pain After C-Section
Your doctor will prescribe a painkiller for use in the first weeks of recovery after your C-section surgery. In terms of pain management and your ability to get up and around, it is best to take the medication exactly as prescribed. Don’t allow to pain to become severe before taking your pain medication.
This stage will only last for 1-3 weeks, at which point your pain typically will be significantly less severe. Your body has undergone major surgery, you are probably not sleeping adequately, and you are taking care of a new baby (and possibly other children). Taking doctor-recommended pain medication can help you (both physically and mentally) get through those first difficult weeks and allow the healing process to begin.
Breastfeeding while taking prescribed painkillers is generally considered safe for both mother and baby. Only take the medication your doctor prescribes; do not exceed the dosage or frequency of the pain medication. Ask your doctor or lactation consultant if you have any questions about the painkiller’s effect on your newborn while nursing.
C-Section Incision Care
Your doctor should give you explicit instructions on caring for your c-section scar. If she does not, remind her to provide you with direction before leaving the hospital. Staples are typically used to close your incision, and normal care is as simple as pouring hydrogen peroxide on the scar a couple of times per day.
Apply vitamin E to the scar to lessen redness and speed healing. Staple removal takes place within a week after surgery, and is typically quick and not very painful. This visit to your doctor will also allow her to check on your incision’s healing. Don’t forget to ask any questions that you may have about your recovery or pain management.
C-Section Scarring
Standard c-section scars are only visible when naked or when wearing the lowest-cut underwear or bikini bottoms. In fact, in a routine c-section, the incision is called a “bikini cut,” and is made just above the public line. Lessen the redness of scarring by applying vitamin E a couple of times a day.
Physical Limitations After C-Section
In the weeks following c-section, you will need to avoid lifting anything heavier than your newborn baby. In addition, avoid strenuous exercise and sit-ups, and get as much sleep as you possibly can.
C-Section Recovery Tips
After cesarean surgery, coughing, sneezing, and laughing can be painful. Applying some pressure to your lower abdomen with a pillow will greatly reduce the pain.
Don’t be hero: Unless you have a great deal of help with your new baby and any other children, are able to sleep through the night, and don’t have to move, function or lift objects with any frequency, take the medication prescribed by your physician.
READ MORE
C-Section Surprises: What You Don’t Know About Having a Cesarean Section
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