When we are expecting a baby, we all think about having a normal delivery. But sometimes, for the safety of you and your baby, doctors have to perform a cesarean section. This may be planned in advance, or it may be necessary due to an emergency during labor. Whatever the reason, it is important to be well-informed about how your body will recover after this.
What exactly is a cesarean section?
Simply put, a cesarean section is a major operation. In this, doctors make a small incision in your abdomen and uterus and remove the baby through it. This is usually done while you are under anesthesia. But unless it is an emergency, the baby is often removed while you are conscious, meaning you are awake. So you can see the baby being born.
Because this is a major surgery, the recovery time is longer than a normal delivery. So it will be a great help to know what is happening to your body and what you need to do during this time.
What to expect after surgery?
After the surgery, you will need to stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days. It can take about 6 weeks to fully recover.
You may not feel much pain right after the surgery. That's because you've been given anesthesia . But as the anesthesia wears off, you may start to feel some pain, especially at the incision site. That's normal, don't worry. You may feel very tired. You may need help to lift your newborn baby in the first few days.
In addition to these things, several other side effects may occur:
- Constipation and flatulence: Surgery and anesthesia can cause a slight decrease in bowel function, which can lead to this condition.
- Vaginal bleeding : This is similar to menstruation. After surgery, the uterus is cleansed and a discharge comes out like this. In medical terms, we call this `(lochia)`.
- Abdominal pain: This type of pain can occur when the uterus shrinks back to its previous size.
- Itching around the scar: It is normal for the skin around the scar to itch as it heals.
- Nausea : Some people may experience nausea and vomiting due to anesthesia.
How to make the healing process easier?
There are a few simple things that can help you recover quickly during this time.
Have a good rest.
This is the most important thing. Rest is essential for the body after any surgery. The advice "sleep when the baby sleeps" is very important at this time. Don't overwork yourself thinking about household chores. Ask your family for help.
Drink plenty of fluids.
If you are breastfeeding during and after surgery, your body will lose a lot of fluids. Therefore , drinking plenty of water and other fluids (e.g. fruit juice, porridge) is essential for a speedy recovery.
Don't be afraid of pain.
If you have pain, talk to your doctor about it. There are safe painkillers that you can take while breastfeeding. Don't put up with the pain, because once the pain subsides, it will be easier for you to take care of your baby and walk around a bit.
Walking is essential.
As soon as your doctor gives you the okay, slowly get up and start walking. Although it may be difficult at first, walking a little can help prevent serious conditions like blood clots and provide relief from stomach cramps.
Imagine if you have to laugh out loud, cough, or sneeze, just hold your surgical scar with your hand or a pillow. That will greatly reduce the pain.
The most important thing is to listen to what your doctor says. Avoid lifting heavy objects or doing anything that puts pressure on the scar. Be patient until the doctor says, "Okay, you can do it now."
Infection prevention and risk factors
It is also very important to take care of the wound after surgery to prevent infection. Therefore, avoid sexual intercourse for a few weeks. Also, do not insert objects such as tampons into the vagina.
If you have any of the following symptoms, tell your doctor immediately or go to the hospital's Emergency Department (ETU). These could be signs of an infection or other serious condition.
| Warning Sign | Description |
|---|---|
| Fever | Body temperature over 100.4°F (38°C). |
| Increased pain in the scar | If the pain of the road to recovery increases day by day instead of gradually decreasing. |
| Scar infection | The area around the scar may become red, swollen, or pus-like fluid may drain out. |
| Pain during urination | Burning or pain when urinating. |
| Heavy bleeding | Heavy vaginal bleeding (wetting more than one pad per hour) or a foul-smelling discharge. |
| Leg pain or swelling | Especially if only one leg is red, swollen, and painful (this could be a sign of a blood clot). |
Think about your mind too.
You may have hoped for a normal delivery. It's normal to feel sad and disappointed that you had to have a cesarean section. But instead of dwelling on it, try to be happy that both you and your baby are healthy.
But if these feelings of sadness, anxiety, and constant crying persist for more than two weeks, it could be a sign of postpartum depression. This is also a treatable condition. So don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about it. Your physical health is just as important as your mental health during this time.
Take-Home Message
- A cesarean section is a major surgery. It takes about 6 weeks to fully heal. Be patient.
- Get plenty of rest, drink plenty of water, and eat nutritious foods.
- Don't tolerate the pain. Ask your doctor for appropriate painkillers.
- Start walking as soon as your doctor gives you permission, but avoid lifting heavy objects.
- Be aware of risk symptoms such as fever, swelling of the scar, and excessive bleeding. If you notice anything like this, seek medical advice immediately.
- Take care of your mind as well as your body. If you have any concerns or worries, talk to your doctor or someone close to you about them.
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