With advancements in medical technology, Caesarean procedures are far less complicated these days. Nonetheless, the effects of the surgery vary from individual to individual depending on how healthy your pregnancy/baby development has been.

Recovering from a Caesarean also takes longer than vaginal birth. But with proper post-delivery care and attention, it’s possible to bounce back and regain your strength sooner than you had imagined.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind if You’ve Had a C-section Delivery:

Take Ample Rest

Like any other surgery, Ceasarean too takes time to heal. So don’t be in a hurry to be up and about. After you get back home, try not to move around too much, especially during the first week. Restrict household chores and take things easy. No matter how well you feel, it is important that you avoid heavy work for at least six to eight weeks. Try and get extra help to assist you with chores like bathing and dressing. The more you rest, the quicker you will recover.

Don’t Lift Heavy Objects

Don’t lift heavy objects Lifting heavy objects is a complete no -no. Even lifting light weight shopping bags should be avoided for at least four to six weeks as you action may put pressure on the tummy muscles and tear the scar. So, its better to be safe than sorry.

Driving Is Highly Avoidable

There’s no hard and fast rule that you have to refrain from driving. But chances are you may be hurting the incision area on the abdomen with the seat belt. Remember the wound is still raw! Also, the shocks you get when you brake and go through potholes, may not be good for you. So, it’s advisable to better you take your doc’s advice on this.

Go Slow On Exercises

It is normal to feel weak after any surgery and caesarean is no different. It may take a few weeks or months for your tummy muscles to regain their strength. Though, exercises play a significant role in knitting back the lax muscles, make sure not to do anything strenuous. Don’t be in a hurry to hit the gym until you’re up to it as you can end up doing more harm than good.

Do As The Doc Says For Incision Care

For taking care of the wound, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. The incision area normally has to be kept dry and dressed regularly. If the incision has been closed with staples or stitches, you can do the dressing at home itself with some help. If you’ve been given instructions to wash the wound site, do it so gently with warm water and soap, without scrubbing it.

Start Breast Feeding As Soon As You Can

You can start nursing your baby as soon as you feel well enough to handle the baby. Breast feeding has several advantages. It promotes bonding. Releases the hormone oxytocin to help contract the uterus and provides the baby with the immunological advantage of colostrum.

The best breast feeding positions for those who have delivered through a c-section is by lying down on the side or sitting propped with a nursing cushion for back support.

Avoid Greasy Food

Post surgery, your organs are still weak and sensitive so it’s best to avoid eating greasy and carbonated food.

Wear Comfortable Clothes

Wear clothes that are loose and airy. The whole idea is not to allow your clothes to rub against the sore region of the abdomen where the wound is still raw. Close fitting clothes may come in contact repeatedly with the wound and hamper the healing process.

Use A Caesarean Belt

Wearing a Caesarean belt post-surgery will protect the scar and prevent it from tearing. Another advantage is will help firm up the stomach and also keep it from sagging.

Walking Helps

Post operation, you may find it painful to take even a few steps. But don’t give up. With a little support from your caregiver, try and take a few paces. Walking will help improve blood circulation and prevent blood clots.