1 of 19

Write now Article Tools

Page 3 of 3

so if you believe it will help you, be sure to ask your doctor about providing one for you.

At the hospital the nurses prod you out of bed and make you walk around as much as possible. But once you are home it can be tempting to sit on the couch with your newborn all day. While taking it easy and resting as much as possible is important, getting up for a walk every day will improve your pain level, mobility, and your mood. Even if it's just to the end of the block and back, a little walk can do a lot of good.

Get lots of rest

This is the hardest recommendation for many new mothers to follow. There is a baby wanting to eat every two hours, friends and family who want to visit, and dishes that won't do themselves. Nonetheless, you must get as much rest as you can. If you don't sleep, you will not heal. Let your visitors throw a load in the laundry or do some dishes, and say yes when they offer to bring you a meal, as long as you don't feel compelled to entertain or clean for them. For the first few weeks, try to have an adult helper around as much as possible, to entertain older siblings or to wait on you hand and foot. Do not feel guilty about accepting help if it's offered this is every new mother's right.

Trouble sleeping is not uncommon. If incision pain bothers you when you lay on your back, try sleeping slightly elevated, in a recliner or on a bed wedge. If you prefer lying on your side, use lots of pillows around your stomach and back to make yourself comfortable. Try to clear your mind and don't watch the clock. And of course there is the oft repeated adage, sleep when the baby sleeps. It can be hard, but as much as possible, it's a great idea.

Talk to others

Having an unplanned cesarean can be emotionally traumatic for many women. You may have had a particular idea of how your baby's birth was going to go, and ended up shocked and disappointed when a cesarean occurred. Or perhaps you are pleased with the birth itself, but are feeling sad and depressed, and don't even know why.

Whether it's called the "baby blues," post-partum depression, or birth trauma, many women are left feeling saddened and shocked after the birth of their child. Hormonal upheaval can turn what should be a happy time into a time of confusion and tears. Talking to your friends and family about your feelings may help, or you can seek out a support group for new mothers in your area. Many hospitals run such support groups, and La Leche League has meetings in most areas. There are also a variety of online groups and message boards where new mothers can connect and feel supported, and less alone. ICAN, or the International Cesarean Awareness Network, works to provide support for cesarean recovery, and has both online groups and local chapters.

If you are worried that your feelings of sadness or depression have gone on too long, or if they are too intense, or if others have become concerned, it may be time to talk to your doctor. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign of strength, as you do your best to take care of your baby by taking care of yourself.

The recovery period is a stressful time, whatever the method of delivery. Healing may seem to take forever, but by the time your baby is six weeks old, you should be physically ready to get back to your normal activities. Despite the challenges and lack of sleep, welcoming a child into your life is a joyous event, so don't forget to stop and enjoy your baby.

Learn more about this author, Tamara Kelly.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2
• 3

Add your voice

Know something about C-section recovery tips?
We want to hear your view. Write now!