How can I recover from my Caesarean?

We asked three experts for their top tips on making a speedy recovery after a C-section

I’m 37 weeks pregnant and having a planned Caesarean as my baby is breech. I’m not worried about the op, but I’m dreading the recovery period. How bad will it be, and can I do anything to get back on my feet quicker?

Sara Cobham, 30, from Bristol

The obstetrician

Recovery after a Caesarean tends to be faster than with other major operations, as there’s very little trauma. The more fit and active you’ve been throughout your pregnancy, the faster you’ll recover.

You’re unlikely to be able to get up until the day after your operation. Until then, keep moving your legs and feet in bed to reduce the risk of blood clots in your lungs or legs. The compression stockings you’ll be given to wear will also help prevent blood clots.

Many women find getting up very painful, so take painkillers half an hour before. Once you’re up, you’ll be given exercises to do. Do them every day to speed up your recovery.

Around two per cent of women develop a wound infection. Symptoms include increased redness, oozing, heat and extreme tenderness around the wound. To avoid this, keep your scar clean (washing with water only) and dry, and expose it to air.

When you lift things, bend your knees, not your back, so you don’t strain your abdominal muscles. Don’t worry about your stitches coming apart – suture material is extremely strong. Most women are fit to drive after one to two weeks, although many insurance companies won’t cover you for six weeks after a Caesarean.

Finally, prepare yourself psychologically. Your psyche plays a major part in the recovery process, and if you accept that a caesarean is not a failure, but the safest option for you and your baby, you’ll recover quicker, both physically and mentally.
Dr Gabrielle Downey is a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at City Hospital, Birmingham

The Caesarean support worker

Most women are up and about within 24 hours of a section, but listen to your body. Just because someone else is walking around doesn’t mean you have to. You should also be able to have something to eat soon afterwards, as long as you’re well. Ask the midwife if a meal can be brought to you in bed.

High-waisted knickers are more comfortable than low-cut ones, which sit right on your wound, but avoid lace and nylon, which can stick to your stitches. Wearing slip-on slippers and shoes means you won’t have to bend to do them up, and if you use a lidded drinking cup, it’s less likely to spill if you’re struggling to sit up.

Many women find it very painful to cough, sneeze and laugh, so brace yourself by holding a pillow across the scar. Lifting can also be uncomfortable. If you have stairs at home, consider having two sets of baby equipment, one upstairs and one downstairs, so you don’t have to keep carrying things.

Arnica tablets may help to reduce bruising after a Caesarean – it’s worth talking to a homeopath, as they may be able to recommend a specific course of treatment. Drinking peppermint tea may also help if you experience pain from trapped wind in the abdomen.

Bear in mind that your emotions may be all over the place after your Caesarean, and it can help to talk to other women who’ve had sections and understand your feelings. Some areas have Caesarean support group (contact your local NCT group or ask your midwife to find out) but you can also read experiences and make contact with people through caesarean.org.uk.

Debbie Chippington Derrick is co-author of Caesarean Birth: Your Questions Answered (NCT, £6.50) and co-founder of caesarean.org.uk

The Caesarean mum

I’ve had two Caesareans – an emergency section with Abigail after my labour failed to progress, and a planned Caesarean with Max. For the first few hours you’re pretty numb, but once the spinal block or epidural has worn off, everything is painful – getting comfy in bed, walking, laughing, coughing, even picking up your baby.

My best tip is to take all the painkillers that are offered – a shot of morphine is bliss, although it does make you feel a little spaced out.
 
You’re also catheterised when you have a section (a tube is inserted through the urethra into the bladder to allow it to empty). Having a wee once it’s removed isn't painful, but it’s difficult at first and such a relief when you can go. Pooing is also difficult because of the pressure on your tummy muscles when you strain. If you have trouble, laxatives can help.
 
On both occasions, I came home on day three, with paracetamol to take every four hours. First time round, I didn't leave the house for two weeks – I was in too much pain.

But after Max’s birth, although I was sore, I was pushing the buggy within a week. The difference was that I rested more second time round, whereas first time I didn't realise the implications of overdoing it.
 
I had my stitches out after a week or so (dissolving stitches are often used), which was a relief as my skin felt a lot looser. My tummy was still tender, but after four to six weeks, all discomfort had pretty much gone.

My uterus contracted down quickly and I was back in my jeans within two weeks. The only lasting effect is some numbness around my scar.

Victoria Carter, 28, is a legal secretary from Essex and mum to Abigail, two, and Max, seven months