For a woman who delivers her baby via a cesarean section (C-section), recovery will be different than if she had a vaginal delivery, says Beth Smathers, RN, a mother/baby nurse at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital. A woman may need to undergo a C-section if her health or the health of her baby is at risk.
C-section recovery
Because a C-section is a major surgery, the recovery process is longer than recovery from a traditional vaginal delivery. Most women need about four to six weeks to recover. This recovery period requires:
- Limited physical activity
- Not driving for the first few weeks
- Not lifting anything heavier than the baby
- Special care of the incision site
Post-surgery medication side effect: Constipation
There may also be side effects from the medications taken after a C-section. Pain medication, for example, may cause constipation. To lessen the symptoms of constipation:
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Eat more fiber
- Take a stool softener
“To help with all the side effects from a C-section, it’s very important – as soon as you’re able – to get up and walk,” she says.
Moving will help with soreness and bowel function.
Post-surgery medication side effect: Gas buildup
Because it may be hard to move after a C-section, many women experience gas buildup.
“Gas discomfort is almost as uncomfortable as the incision itself,” says Smathers.
Try her tips to ease gas-related pain:
- Walk around as much as you safely can
- Consume warm liquids at every meal
What to expect at the hospital
“When you come to the hospital to have a delivery, if you should have to have a C-section delivery, our staff is well-trained and well-prepared to help you have the safest delivery possible,” says Smathers.
For more information on childbirth at Piedmont, visit Piedmont Women’s Services.
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