2 of 19

Write now Article Tools

Post-Operation Caesarean Section Care at Home

While a Caesarean section only takes minutes to complete, it takes weeks to recover from one. A caesarean section changes everything about how the first few weeks with the new baby will be. Planning ahead for the mother's care is essential so that she can best care for her new child.

The pain following the caesarean section is the most difficult part of the recovery process for a new mom. The onset of pain begins as the uterus begins contracting to its normal size. This may feel like menstrual cramps. For most women, the cramping goes away within 24-48 hours of the procedure. This is one of the things women having caesarean sections have in common with those giving birth vaginally.

The real pain begins when the new mother begins to walk. The first steps cause pain that feels like a burning sensation and sharp pains around the incision area and lower abdomen. While the new mother may not feel like getting out of bed for fear of pain, it is essential that she get up and move around some, as this will help with the recovery process. Walking also helps to begin moving gas as well as preventing stiffness around the incision area.

It is very necessary for a woman recovering from a caesarean section to take the pain medication as prescribed for her. Sometimes well meaning people will discourage the new mother that breastfeeds from taking her medication for fear that it will harm the baby. There are pain medications available that are considered safe for both the mother and baby because such small amounts of the medication are transmitted through breast milk. For the new mother to be able to care for her baby, she first has to care for herself. If she is overwhelmed with pain, she cannot properly care for her child. If there are fears of taking pain medication while breastfeeding, her doctor should be consulted.

As recovery progresses, the pain will slacken off, but new discomforts may begin. An aching sensation around the incision is normal as both nerves and muscles are cut during the procedure. Numbness, itching, and cramping can also be normal. Numbness may occur in and around the incision area. Sometimes, sensation is never regained due to nerves being cut. As the incision heals, itching will occur. Because of the numbness, scratching the area may not provide much relief. Be aware that if itching is accompanied by fever, chill, drainage, or dizziness, a physician must be contacted immediately. These symptoms could be signs

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

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