Postpartum Wellness

Things You Should Never Do After A C-Section

7 min | Updated on 30-03-2023 by HappyPreggie

Many expecting mothers despise the name C-section and are resistant to it. However, in some cases, a cesarean section is necessary, particularly when the mother and baby's health is at stake. The days after your baby is born, known as the postpartum period, can be one of the most difficult times for women and families. For moms who have had a C- section, this period might be much more difficult. After a cesarean delivery, it's critical for women to take care of themselves.

Things you should never do after C-section
(Image credits to Canva)

Because the postpartum period has the highest maternal death rate, additional attention to the mother's care is required. If you're a single mother or your partner has to go back to work soon after the birth of your kid, try to put together a support team ahead of time to assist you during this period. Read the whole article to know the things you should never do after a C- section.



#1 Don’t feel guilty about it


That pre-planned water birth would have been wonderful. But your doctor believed that this was the safest means of bringing your baby into the world, and there's no turning back now, is there? Enjoy your newborn, concentrate on your wellness, and don't feel obligated to justify yourself to anyone.

Don't feel guilty about it
(Image credits to Canva)


#2 Don’t stay on your hospital bed


Attempt to move around as much as possible once your catheter has been taken (take help from the hospital staff if needed). Rather than resting on a hospital bed, know for sure that this will speed up your recovery. You won't be able to move much, so take it gently; you may feel dizzy or light-headed otherwise.

Don't be in the hospital bed
(Image credits to Canva)


#3 Don’t ignore nature call


Don't ever ignore nature's call when you are required to use the restroom, as this could cause stress to your incision. Even if you have to get out of bed several times, do so. Getting up and walking hurts, but you have to do it.

Don't ignore nature call
(Image credits to Canva)


#4 Don’t eat spicy food


You might be hooked up to IVs for at least two days after giving birth and won't be able to eat anything. But don't start eating spicy gravy and brownies as soon as you're able. A C-section can throw your digestive system for a loop, and the last point you want to deal with is acidity and GERD.

Don't eat spicy food
(Image credits to Canva)


#5 Avoid lifting weight


Lifting weights should be avoided. You should never move anything heavy that could put pressure on your scar, other than your kid. Even if you've been discharged for two weeks, stick to this rule because internal healing takes time.



#6 Start exercising right away


Do not attempt to begin exercising immediately following your birth. Wait until your doctor gives you the green light. Wearing the same pregnant clothes after giving birth isn't particularly appealing, but you have to wait until you can fit back into your designer pants. Early abdominal pressure can be harmful and result in bleeding. Rather, go for a walk with your kid in your arms or push the stroller around the park; this will provide adequate exercise. You can, however, exercise with your child if you follow these guidelines.



#7 Don’t avoid your scar


Take extra precautions with your scar. Obey your doctor's after-care instructions to the letter. Until your incision is totally healed, avoid taking a hot bath or shower.

Don't avoid your scar
(Image credits to Canva)


#8 Keep yourself hydrated


Constipation should be avoided at all costs. Make sure you're getting enough water. Putting pressure on your abdomen while the wound is still healing could be dangerous.


Keep yourself hydrated
(Image credits to Canva)


#9 Don’t be your own doctor


Do not self-medicate with pain relievers. You may be on a course of painkillers prescribed by your doctor following your surgery; but, once the course is ended, do not self-medicate with the painkillers. This could be problematic if you're breastfeeding. If the pain persists after six weeks of healing, consult your doctor.



#10 Get a hold on the laugh, sneeze or cough hard


If you've recently undergone major abdominal surgery, you might not want to invite your most amusing pals to pay you a visit to the hospital. Laughter, a quick coughing fit, or anything other than the gentlest "ah-choo" will result in excruciating lower-abdominal soreness.



#11 Lose your belly belt


If your hospital does not provide you with one of these broad, straps to wear beneath your clothes for a few weeks, you can purchase one similar to the Belly Bandit. They're a hassle to put on, but they're useful for supporting your semi-numb, droopy tummy and encouraging it to look and feel more normal more quickly.

Lose your belly belt
(Image credits to Canva)


#12 Rearrange your furniture


However, it is not a good idea to overwork oneself. For at least a week after you arrive home, don't even consider doing laundry, putting away dishes, or climbing stairs (unless absolutely essential). You may have a surge of energy, but it will most likely pass as fast as it arrived—save your energy for holding your baby and other great things like bathing.



#13 Ask for help


You're going to need a lot of aid, so take advantage of any offers. Simply state what kind of assistance you require (making healthy food and cleaning the house are lifesavers; "reorganizing" your kitchen and hovering as you and your husband try to master diaper changing are not).

Ask for help
(Image credits to Canva)

 

Your doctor will create an incision in your lower abdomen and uterine wall to deliver your baby during a cesarean section (C-section). C-section is one of the most common major operations. Take the time to learn about a new mother's limits and the types of care that may be required. Keep in mind that a new mother's mental and physical stress is completely normal. It's critical to have open lines of communication with your doctor and support group.


What do you think about our piece on the Things You Should Never Do After A C-section? At HappyPreggie we believe you will find all our blogs very informative. Because we always care about the parents to be and the new parents. Do visit our website to learn more about our services.


Meanwhile, you can also read- 15 Common Health Problems And Diseases In Newborns or you can also read- Baby Crying Patterns: What Do They Mean?

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