Breastmilk is the best for babies. The World Health Organisation recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. Unnecessary introduction of bottle feeding or other food and drinks will have a negative impact on breastfeeding. After six months of age, infants should receive age-appropriate foods while breastfeeding continues for up to two years of age or beyond. Consult your doctor before deciding to use infant formula or if you have difficulty breastfeeding.
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Are you reading up on the various delivery methods? As mothers, we want the best for our baby! Though a C-section would take just about an hour, you’ll need a longer recovery period for C-sections compared to vaginal births. Here are some tips for a faster recovery.
What Happens After Your Baby is Born?
After the initial burst of joy, gratitude and relief when your baby is born, your placenta would be delivered and the surgeon would sew up your uterus and abdomen. Amazingly, the whole C-section procedure takes just about 40 to 50 minutes. Once your baby is checked by the medical team, you will be given your baby for skin-to-skin contact to encourage bonding. This is when you get to hug your baby close!
Afterwards, you will be wheeled out to a recovery room, to allow time for the anaesthetic to wear off. Your heart rate and blood pressure will also be checked. Want to ace at breastfeeding? Don’t hesitate to get help on positioning your baby.
Recovering From Your C-section
The days following childbirth may be the most challenging. In most cases, you’ll be up and about in 24 hours and out of hospital within 5 days. However, it takes around 6 weeks to fully recover from a C-section, so plan for extra help at home to give you time to rest and concentrate on your baby.
Don’t lift anything heavier than your baby during this time to allow your wound to heal! Avoid rigorous exercise and sex until given the all clear by your healthcare professional – usually at the 6-week check-up. If you are experiencing high levels of pain or fluid leaking from the wound during recovery, contact your doctor as soon as possible to arrange an appointment1.
Birth Options for Subsequent Babies
Having a C-section for your first baby does not mean you can’t have a vaginal birth in the future. In fact, about 70% of women who try for a vaginal delivery after a C-section are successful.
Some Tips
- Stock up on paracetamol and ibuprofen
- Cook and freeze a few days’ worth of nutritious meals
- Pack loose clothing that will be comfortable around your abdomen
- Get plenty of rest and be careful not to place any strain around the wound area
Click here to find out more about the nutrition that your baby needs after C-section.
1https://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Caesarean-section/Pages/Recovery.aspx
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/labor-and-delivery/in-depth/c-section-recovery/art-20047310
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