Guide to recovery after a C-Section

Guide to recovery after a C-Section

Becoming a mum can be one of the most wonderful, beautiful and awe-inspiring moments. A moment that fills you with unimaginable joy and love.

But it can also be overwhelming, painful and not at all what you expect. Especially if your birth plan flew straight out the window! However, no matter how you give birth, recovery time for your superhuman body is essential both mentally and physically.

In this blog, we describe which physical exertion is and is not recommended in the first eight weeks. We also describe in which phase silicone scar products can be used for a better recovery of the scar. Every recovery after a caesarean section is different. We therefore give you a guideline of what you can and may physically do again within a specific period of time.

 

1-2 Days: Hospital Recovery

  • Stay in the hospital for the first 1-2 days after surgery
  • Doctors monitor your recovery and provide necessary care
  • On the second day, bladder catheter is removed
  • You can independently use the toilet, shower, and walk, seek assistance from hospital nurses for breastfeeding
  • Sleeping on your side may be uncomfortable, which is normal
  • For the first six weeks, get out of bed in a side-lying position to protect abdominal muscles

2-7 Days: Continuing Recovery at Home or in the Hospital

  • Recovery continues in the hospital or at home with maternity care
  • Prioritize rest and minimal activity
  • Experience common discomfort;
  • Keep the wound clean by rinsing in the shower; change plaster or bandage daily if leaking
  • Ensure sufficient fluid and nutrition intake for digestive system recovery
  • First bowel movement post-C-section can be uncomfortable; include enough fiber in your diet

1-2 Weeks: Light Household Chores

  • Limit to light household chores in the first two weeks
  • Avoid heavy housework for the first six weeks to prevent pressure on the wound and stitches
  • Be cautious with quick stair climbing
  • Exercising is not recommended during the first six weeks; gradually reintroduce activity
  • Resume driving cautiously when focus is restored and pain has subsided; avoid long trips initially

Scarring is another added worry that new mums face. Scars can be raised, itchy, red and painful.

Have you considered Scarban Silicone treatment?

Recommended by specialists and clinically proven, Scarban reduces the above symptoms on both old and new C-section scars. Faster recovery will make your scar:

  • Flatter – less elevated/thickened
  • More flexible – less painful, with less skin tension
  • Less red – less visible