Healing after a C-section

The recovery stage following a C-section can be between 3 and 5 days in hospital. After discharge from the hospital full recovery from the procedure can take up to 4 months.

• Rest as much as needed

• Avoid heavy lifting 

• Watch for signs of infection

• Walk often, slowly increasing the duration of the walks. This will help prevent the formation of blood clots.

• Do not do exercises that will strain the abdominal muscles until approved by a doctor. 

• Hold a pillow over the wound when coughing, sneezing, or laughing. This is to brace the wound and help reduce pain. 

WOUND CARE

• Wash your hands before doing any wound care. 

• Keep the site clean and dry

• Showers are okay, do not soak in hot tubs, baths or go swimming until the doctor approves it.

• Follow the doctors instructions about wound dressing and care

WHEN TO CALL A DOCTOR

• If you soak through a pad in an hour

• If you pass blood clots that are as big as a plum. 

• If the stitches start to open

• If yellowish or greenish discharge is noticed at the wound site

• If there is a foul-smelling discharge from the site of the wound

• If you develop flu-like symptoms

• If you have a fever that is over 38 degrees celcius

• If you have pain that does not go away after using pain medication.