What to expect after having a C-section
It’s been a few days now, and you’ve finally got your little bundle of joy home with you. You’re exhausted but so happy that it feels as if the weight of the world has been lifted off your chest. But don’t forget to take care of yourself, too! This post will go over some tips on what you should remember after having a baby, from how to look after yourself at home afterward (including what to do in case you have had a C-section) and how best to get back into shape.
Effects of C-Section
A c-section is a major surgery, and your body has been through a lot to make everything work. Fortunately, technology and modern medicine make it much less risky to have a baby via C-section today; from urinary catheters to keep you comfortable while in the hospital, to the prescribed medication to give your body all the help it needs to recover as quickly and efficiently as possible. Yet, it’s essential to understand the recovery time as you’ll need plenty of rest. It can take weeks for the body to heal – up to six or eight in some cases – so don’t be discouraged if not everything feels 100% just yet! Take things slowly, do your best with what you have at home and get help from professionals when needed. In terms of healing, here is what you can expect from your body after having a C-section.
Firstly, your stomach will most likely feel tight or sore (you may even continue feeling contractions), but this should ease over time, and no heavy lifting until instructed by your doctor is highly recommended. You may also experience pain around the incision site due to swelling, which will also decrease gradually. Next, drink plenty of water to hydrate your body and try not to drink anything that will cause more discomfort like caffeine or alcohol; don’t forget about good old-fashioned rest!
Parenting duties at home
In addition, don’t forget about how they’ll need plenty of help too! It may seem like this little thing is just so needy all the time, but it really does depend on how much attention/stimulation they’re getting each day. Babies have an innate sense of what their parents need and often seek extra comfort if left alone for too long. Just make sure not to overdo it: too much attention can lead to overstimulation and crying!
In addition, don’t forget you need time for yourself. While your partner is doing the majority of the work at home (be grateful!), remember that they’re exhausted too. So make sure to take some time each day as a couple; get out together or do something just between the two of you, like cooking dinner or watching Netflix. You are not alone in this, but if you ever feel overwhelmed with parenting duties, ask for help from family, friends, and even professionals specializing in new parents, such as postpartum doulas! They’ll provide care while also giving your partner more space – everyone needs a break now and again!
Getting back into shape
It may take some time before you’re ready to work out after having a baby, so be sure not to put too much pressure on yourself by setting unrealistic goals. You can do many things at home that will have the same benefits as an intense workout session, like squats or lunges (which are best performed without any weights). It’s all about building up endurance gradually until it feels natural again; try adding one new exercise to your routine every week.
It may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t need to be! You just need the right information to make good decisions each day and you’ll be back on your feet with your perfect little bundle of joy in no time.
