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C-Section Recovery: What to Expect

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C-section scar on belly

It’s important to set expectations before any surgical procedure. Here’s what you can expect during your C-section recovery.

Right after surgery, you will be in a quiet space with just your partner, baby and nurses. This will allow you to rest, feed your baby and have frequent health checks by your nurse. We will limit visitors during these first few hours so that you and your baby have a quiet, healing environment. After this time, you will be transition to postpartum care. You will continue recovering from your surgery and getting to know your baby. Your surgeon and baby’s doctor will check on you every day.

What to Expect the First 24 Hours

  • You may have ice chips right after surgery.

  • You may start eating and drinking as soon as you feel ready. This is usually about 2 hours after surgery. We encourage you to drink water or other liquids every day to stay hydrated.

  • We will encourage you to have skin-to-skin contact with your baby until you go home. If you get sleepy during skin-to-skin time, place your baby in the crib.

  • If chest/breast feeding: Try to start as soon as possible. Your nurse can help answer any questions you have. Lactation Services may also be available at your hospital if you need additional support.

  • Your nurse will check your bleeding, surgical cut, uterus and vital signs often throughout your stay to watch how well you are recovering.

  • We will remove your urine catheter in the first few hours (before you walk).

  • We will give you medicine to help with any pain or cramping in your uterus. You may also ask for medicine for itching, nausea and shivering.

  • You will continue wearing the compression sleeves on your legs while in bed.

What to Expect Before you Go Home

  • We may remove your bandage.

  • You may begin showering or bathing. You will be walking 3 to 4 times per day.

  • You will be able to sit up in a chair to care for your baby, eat meals and see visitors.

  • Expect to chest/breastfeed 8 to 12 times per day or more often if baby desires.

  • You will be prescribed a stool softener to help with bowel movements.

  • We will tell you how to care for your surgical cut at home.

First 24 Hours at Home

  • Review your discharge instructions. Be sure to follow any care instructions we have given you for your surgical cut.

  • Rest when your baby rests.

  • Take pain medicines as directed.

  • Continue skin-to-skin contact with your baby. (Reminder: It is not safe to sleep with your baby.)

  • Do not lift anything heavier than your baby.

  • Drink lots of water every day to stay hydrated.

  • Continue to breastfeed at least 8 to 12 times per day or more often if baby desires.

  • Walk at least 3 to 4 times per day, or more if you can.

  • Attend all follow-up appointments for you and your baby

Contact MetroPartners OBGYN

If you have any questions about your specific c-section, it’s best to consult your provider. Give MetroPartners OBGYN a call and schedule an appointment today if you are in need of gynecological surgery.