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Common
Caesarean Recovery Questions & Their Answers
by Jaime Warren
What is the best
possible way to ensure a quicker recovery?
Many women find that walking, at least within a 24 hour period after their
Caesarean helps speed up the recovery process. While it may be painful to take
those first steps, walking helps to begin moving gas through as well as prevent
stiffness around the incision area.
When can I resume my normal activities?
Upon leaving the hospital you will be given a list of instructions on what is
safe and what isn't as far as normal activities go. It is best to wait 2-4 weeks
before beginning activities such as sweeping, vacuuming or anything that will
require bending, stretching or stooping. A good rule of thumb is to listen to
your body. If you feel as though you can perform an activity and you experience
no pain or discomfort, then proceed with the activity.
How much is safe to lift after a Caesarean?
The heaviest thing you should lift for at least 2-4 weeks after your Caesarean
is your newborn. Lifting anything heavier could seriously complicate your
recovery.
When can I begin an exercise routine?
It is usually best to wait at least 8 weeks after your Caesarean to begin an
exercise routine. When you do begin one, start out with very light, moderate
exercises and gradually build to the exercises you performed before your
operation. Listen to your body. If you experience pain or discomfort, stop
immediately. If you experience any bleeding or oozing from your incision,
contact your doctor immediately. It is important not to overdo it.
When can I begin taking baths?
It is usually okay to resume taking baths about 4-6 weeks after your Caesarean.
However, if you have had problems with your incision being infected or with the
wound re-opening, it is best to wait until your doctor gives you permission to
do so.
What happens if my incision gets infected?
In most cases antibiotics are given orally and the incision is treated with
topical medications. If the infection is serious, hospitilization may be
required so that intravenous antibiotics and fluids can be administered. If an
infection is present, your doctor will monitor you closely.
Is it possible for my incision to re-open?
While it isn't common for the wound to re-open, it does happen. It can occur if
you begin some activities too soon after your operation. It can also occur if
the incision is sutured incorrectly or if the wrong type of sutures are used. If
the wound re-opens it may need to have new sutures. If additional sutures are
not required, you may have to use special dressings to keep the wound covered
and safe from exposure. If the wound gets infected, antibiotics will most likely
be necessary.
How long will I have to use my pain medications?
This really varies from woman to woman. Some find that they only need the pain
medications for as little as a few days while others may need them for a longer
period.
Written by: Jaime Warren
All articles and advice found on this site are for informational purposes only.
I am not and have never professed to be a medical professional. All my advice
and information are derived from personal experience and self-education. -Jaime
Warren, Owner/Editor-In-Chief
CaesareanBirth.Com
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