A cesarean section (C-section) is the second method of childbirth, involving the surgical delivery of the baby from the mother’s uterus. Although doctors generally prefer natural birth because of its many benefits and fewer complications, a C-section becomes necessary in certain medical situations to protect the mother or baby.
After undergoing a cesarean delivery, it is essential to take special care of yourself and your newborn. In an interview with Nadormagazine, obstetrics and gynecology consultant Dr. Shaimaa Qassem shared 10 important tips for mothers during the first two weeks after a C-section.
1. Try to Control Coughing, Sneezing, and Laughing
After a C-section, you may experience coughing or sneezing due to the effects of anesthesia, whether general or spinal. Anesthesia can temporarily reduce lung efficiency, and lowered immunity after childbirth may increase susceptibility to colds. Additionally, surgical gases can put pressure on the diaphragm.
To ease these symptoms:
Drink warm herbal fluids.
Try to minimize intense laughter.
Support your abdomen when coughing or sneezing.
2. Always Use a Pillow for Support
A small, soft pillow should be your constant companion during the first days after surgery. Use it to:
Support your incision when coughing or sneezing.
Hold against your abdomen when laughing or crying.
Help you sit up, bend, or get out of bed.
This reduces pressure on the incision site and minimizes pain.
3. Choose Your Food Carefully
Avoid foods that cause bloating and gas, such as cabbage and cauliflower, as these may also affect your baby (especially if breastfeeding). Gas pressure can strain your incision.
Also avoid:
Heavy, greasy foods.
Foods that cause constipation.
Large amounts of legumes.
Instead, focus on:
Soups.
Fresh salads.
A variety of fresh fruits.
Preventing constipation is crucial, as straining can harm the incision.
4. Avoid Looking at Your Incision Yourself
Constantly checking your wound may negatively affect your emotional well-being and slow recovery. Bending to examine it can also cause pain.
Instead:
Ask a nurse or healthcare provider about the healing progress.
Focus on rest and recovery rather than appearance.
5. Take Painkillers Regularly, Not Only When Needed
Do not wait for severe pain before taking medication. Follow your doctor’s prescribed schedule to maintain comfort and promote healing.
Consult your doctor for:
Safe painkillers that do not affect breastfeeding.
Suitable antibiotics to prevent infection.
Consistent pain management helps you care for your baby and yourself more effectively.
6. Expect Numbness and Tingling Around the Incision
Numbness or tingling occurs because small nerves are affected during surgery. Itching is often a sign that healing is progressing.
After bandages are removed:
Apply a moisturizing cream.
Gently massage the area in circular motions for two minutes, several times daily.
Use a small towel-wrapped ice pack for five minutes if needed.
These sensations may return months later and are usually normal. Keep the area clean and avoid scratching.
7. Don’t Feel Guilty About Having a C-Section
Some mothers feel they “missed out” on natural labor. However, a C-section does not diminish your motherhood. You carried your baby for nine months and endured surgery and recovery. Postoperative pain can be just as intense as labor pain.
Your birth experience does not define your strength as a mother.
8. Don’t Neglect Light Movement
After recovering from anesthesia:
Start with gentle movement in your hospital room.
Gradually increase walking at home.
Light activity improves circulation, speeds recovery, and reduces the risk of blood clots.
9. Consider Probiotics for Your Baby (With Doctor’s Advice)
Babies born via C-section may miss exposure to beneficial bacteria acquired during vaginal birth. With your pediatrician’s recommendation, probiotic drops may help:
Support digestive health.
Reduce colic and gas.
Strengthen immunity.
10. Avoid Sudden Movements
For the first weeks:
Avoid climbing stairs (use elevators if possible).
Do not lift heavy objects.
Avoid intense crying or straining.
Postpone heavy household chores.
Do not hesitate to ask for help from your mother, spouse, or close relatives. Rest is essential for proper healing.
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