Four tips to help you recover after a c-section

As a first-time mum, I did all that I could to prepare for the birth of my little one as well as the days that followed. I had an emergency CS which threw my whole recovery/bounce back plan out the window.

It’s very hard to adequately explain what it is like to have a caesarean section. While no form of childbirth takes precedence over the other, healing from this surgery can take its toll on the mother. And like any other hardworking woman out there, if you’re used to being on the move, being asked to slow down and rely on others can be difficult.

Below are a few tips that will help you recover after a c-section.

1. Take it slow

Give yourself adequate time to recover. Not only do you have to care for a newborn but you also need to nurse yourself back to health. Don’t rush the process. Different people have different recovery rates. Take it one day at a time. Listen to your body. Rest when you need to and when you get a bust of energy go about tackling your to-do list.

2. Allow others to help you

The truth of the matter is that you had a major operation and thus you have a wound that needs adequate time to heal, not only on the surface but deeper inside as well. Thus, there will be days when even walking to the bathroom or carrying your little one will be a chore. Get help and most importantly allow others to help you. Hire a househelp to help with keeping your house clean. Ask a relative to come and stay with you to oversee the overall running of your house and to help with the baby. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness or that you aren't a capable mum. 

3. Follow the doctor’s instructions

One of the biggest mistakes we make as patients is “consulting” online communities about illnesses that we have or suspect that we have. That’s what your doctor is for. After a CS you will be given a list of instructions: how to bathe without getting your wound wet, what medication to take and when to take it, how much physical activity you can do, even what sort of clothing you should wear. If you do what your doctor tells you, you should have a full recovery in due time. If you notice anything that is out of your new ordinary, consult him and get a professional opinion.

Even so, it doesn’t hurt to exchange notes with other mums who are going through what you currently are. However, keep in mind that every situation is unique.

4. Maintain a healthy diet

Recovering from surgery requires healing of your muscle tissue which in turn needs appropriate nutrients. These nutrients can be acquired from eating a healthy diet.

Drinking plenty of water will also help flush out toxins from your body, and keep you hydrated as you breastfeed (if you’re a breastfeeding mum).

In addition to this, many CS mothers complain of constipation. Eating foods rich in fibre as well as drinking enough fluids should help ease the constipation as well as the discomfort it causes.