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When it is required or requested that you have a cesarean section there is a lot to think about before you have the surgery. I call it surgery, because thats truly what it is, although you are also experiencing childbirth at the same time, it is major surgery as well. Many people do not realize this, and think that you should be able to recover just as easily as natural childbirth.

I have had both a planned cesarean section, and a non planned both due to health reasons, and I have found that it takes a lot to recover properly afterwards. It is important that even if you are not planning to, or have been informed of having a c-section, that you plan for one just in case.

Here are some tips and suggestions for recovering after a cesarean section delivery;

ASK FOR HELP:
It is important that your partner or spouse is aware of the length and pain of recovering from a c-section. You will need a lot of help and support during this time, especially if you have other children at home. If your spouse cannot take the time off of work to be at home to help with everything from chores to the baby, you will need someone you trust to be there instead. This will ensure that you can get the rest and relaxation you need, as well as time with your newborn baby. It can take up to a few weeks to fully recover, if not longer and it will be hard for you to sit up or even walk early on. If you over push yourself by doing too much too early, you can seriously harm yourself by doing so.

DO NOT OVER EXERT YOURSELF:
By over exerting yourself, you can delay your recovery time, or even worse cause an infection that can send you back to the hospital. Start your routine slowly, and although it is important to exercise a little each day to build your strength, do not push yourself. I can express that I truly know how hard it is not to go back to your normal routine right away, and do everything you can for your new baby, but I can also share that with my first I experienced infection and an opening in my incision. This caused my recovery time to lengthen that caused more pain than unnecessary. So take your time, and remember that you just had major surgery.

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF:
Although it can be hard to remember, especially with a new baby to look after, but it is important you look after your health. Eat right, and take care of your incision as directed by doctors. Do not remove your staples or stitches out by yourself, and make sure to replace the covering over your incision regularly until your doctor tells you it can be removed.

WEAR APPROPRIATE CLOTHING:
Although every new mother loves to get back into their pre-pregnancy clothes as soon as possible, it is important that you stay comfortable. You should wear reasonably loose clothing, and do not put pressure on your incision as that can cause infection as well.

TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR:
Go to the regular check ups as directed by your doctor, and get your staples or stitches out on time. I waited and took too long, and with a few days difference, my skin was growing over my staples. This caused pain and discomfort when I had them removed as well as unneeded scaring. Also, if you notice any fluid, or excessive pain coming from your incision or abdominal area go to your doctor immediately. Talk to your doctor before you leave the hospital and ask if there is anything you can look out for.

Recovering from a cesarean section, doesn't have to be any worse than it already is. Take your time, ask for help, and stay comfortable. Take this time to relax and enjoy your new baby, while taking care of yourself as well.

Learn more about this author, Chrissy Harrison.
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