Usually, women’s main concern regarding a C-section is the spinal anesthesia, fear of pain, discomfort, or how they will feel at the time of application. However, a point that is not always questioned — but deserves more attention — is what cesarean postpartum is like and what care it requires.
The C-section is considered a major surgery because, in addition to the large incision made in the abdomen, which cuts through several layers of tissue and muscle, there is also an incision made in the woman’s uterus to remove the baby. There are significant risks of infections and other complications during cesarean postpartum1. The recovery time varies from woman to woman. Some recover well from surgery and are able to get up, shower, and do what is necessary without major issues or complications, while others need more time before they feel safe and managed to get up again.
It is natural that in the cesarean postpartum, as soon as she leaves the operating room, the woman experiences some uncomfortable symptoms such as feeling very cold, itching all over her body, and shivering. These are side effects of the anesthesia and medications used during the procedure, but you can inform the nurse of what you are feeling so she can provide medicine to relieve the symptoms and blankets to help with the cold. Some doctors advise the mother to avoid talking for a good while, as this helps prevent the buildup of gases that could cause even more abdominal bloating. So try to relax as much as possible after the C-section and, if possible, sleep to rest2.
The recommended period requested by doctors for the woman to stay lying down in recovery after a cesarean delivery is 10 to 12 hours. At the end of this period, a nurse will ask the mother to get up to take a shower. As mentioned above, some women can do this without many issues, while others may need help from a nurse or even their companion. Sudden movements or even the simple act of sitting, getting up, and lying down will be complicated, especially at first, and should be done with the utmost care because of the C-section stitches. That’s why the presence of a husband or a family member is always recommended to help care for the baby, even in the hospital room, in cases where the baby stays in the room with the mother.
Typically, the hospital stay for mothers who had a C-section is 3 days. Of course, if any issue arises that requires extra care, the doctor in charge will request a longer stay or as much time as needed for both the mother and the baby to be released.
Risks of Cesarean Delivery
Although nowadays it is a much-requested option by women and recommended by many doctors, there are many risks associated with cesarean delivery that should be pointed out to all women, as it is a very delicate surgery. The risks go beyond just the mother’s health, as the baby’s health can also be affected. When C-sections are scheduled ahead of time, there is a significant risk of the baby being delivered prematurely and having respiratory problems that require a ventilator.
As with any surgery, the risk of infection is always significant, not to mention wound healing problems that can occur after a cesarean. Keloids and hernias3 are examples of problems that may arise during healing and at the incision site. It can also affect sensitivity in the area, affecting about 20% of women after cesarean delivery. As for suture care, they should be washed as usual during showers with neutral soap; there is no need for special soaps, and the stitches should be removed 8 days after the C-section. If the woman is experiencing a great deal of discomfort and pain in the area, she can take the painkillers prescribed by her doctor at discharge.
If there is any secretion or pus coming from the incision site, the doctor must be consulted immediately, as it may be a sign of infection, and proper care must be taken to prevent complications.
See also: Postpartum Menstruation – When Does it Return to Normal and Risks of Getting Pregnant
