15 Things I Wish Somebody Had Told Me About C-Sections

Becoming a mother is a complicated process, and many things can happen that no one will warn you about.

As someone who delivered via C-section, and having worked with many other women who’ve had Cesarean sections, We’re here to share some things that nobody warned us about before getting a C-section.

While a C-section delivery is generally safe and many mothers will have one during their pregnancies, it is still major surgery with potential complications and risks.

Things I Wish Somebody Had Told Me About C-Sections

1. It’s Not Always Planned

While you might immediately associate a C-section with an emergency, it’s actually possible to schedule one if there are medical reasons, such as breech positioning, maternal or fetal health issues, or if you’ve had previous C-sections. Scheduled C-sections are quite common, and you shouldn’t worry that something went wrong if you’ve been told you’ll be having one.

2. The Recovery Is Not a Walk in the Park

Having a C-section is major abdominal surgery, and while it involves a small incision, that doesn’t mean it isn’t major surgery or that it’s a walk in the park.

In fact, the opposite is true. You’re going to be in quite a bit of pain for at least the first few days, and movement will be very limited. You’ll be given pain relief medications, but that won’t take the pain away entirely. If you’re having a C-section, be prepared to take things slow and rest and recuperate as much as possible in the days following the surgery.

3. You Will Need Help (A Lot of It)

It’s one of the hardest parts for me to accept, especially because this has happened twice for me, but after a C-section, you really need someone to be there to help you, at least in the first few weeks.

You’ll need help moving around the house, lifting anything heavier than your baby, and often even with basic hygiene. This can be a parent, a friend, or a professional, but don’t feel guilty about accepting help during this period of recuperation.

4. The Incision Isn’t the Only Thing You’ll Be Dealing With

A C-section is major abdominal surgery, but when people talk about the incision, they usually mean the cut through the skin. When the doctor performs a C-section, they also make incisions through the layers of abdominal tissue and the wall of the uterus to get the baby out.

You’ll also have to deal with internal bruising and soreness from that surgery. This will be the hardest part of the whole recovery process, as the pain is not only around your skin incision but deep within your abdomen.

5. Emotions Can Be Complicated

One of the things I wish someone had told me before having a C-section is that emotions can be complicated after the procedure.

Even though it’s safe, routine, and the right choice in my situation, I still had to deal with feelings of disappointment, guilt, failure, and even loss because I wasn’t able to have the natural birth I had planned. It took me a long time, both physically and emotionally, to recover after my C-section, so it’s perfectly normal to feel all sorts of emotions, including grief. Don’t be hard on yourself during this time.

6. The First Bath Will Be Tricky

The truth is, bending over to pick anything up, including your baby, is going to be very difficult or impossible for you in the first few weeks.

Sitting up or even standing might be tough at first, so you won’t be able to give yourself a full bath. You’ll need help with hygiene until you can do it yourself, so don’t be shy about asking for help. It’s important to allow your body to fully heal, so don’t push yourself to do things before you’re ready.

7. You Might Have Trouble Breastfeeding Right Away

Breastfeeding after a C-section can be a little more challenging, especially in the first days after delivery.

It can take a while for your milk to come in, and finding a comfortable nursing position might be difficult due to the abdominal pain. You might need additional support from a lactation consultant. Just remember to be patient with yourself and the whole breastfeeding process.

8. You Will Feel Like a New Person When the Pain Subsides

I was surprised at how quickly the pain started to subside after my C-section. Of course, the first few days are the worst, but once the pain starts to fade, you’ll begin feeling like a new person. This might be a big relief for you, and you’ll start to notice other aspects of motherhood, such as snuggling with your little one and feeling more in control of your body.

9. It Takes Time for Your Body to Heal Completely

If you thought the outer layer of your incision would be the most challenging part of healing, you’d be wrong. Even though your skin might start to heal relatively quickly, that’s not the case with the internal abdominal healing.

Your whole body will need a long time to heal completely from a C-section. That’s why it’s so important to take things slow and not rush yourself into activity.

10. The Risk of Infection Is Real

As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection with a C-section. Some telltale signs of infection include increased redness or swelling around your incision, unusual discharge, or fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should reach out to your healthcare provider immediately. Infections can be a serious health risk, but they can be prevented by keeping the incision site clean and dry.

11. Scar Tissue Can Affect Future Pregnancies

If you plan to have more children after a C-section, it’s important to consider scar tissue. The uterus can heal from a C-section, and many women are able to have successful vaginal births after a Cesarean (VBAC).

However, the scar tissue on the uterus can sometimes cause complications with future pregnancies, so it’s important to talk to your doctor about your birth plan if you want more children in the future.

12. The Gas Pains Are No Joke

Gas cramps after a C-section are no joke and can be very painful. The surgery often disrupts your digestive system, so you’ll likely have some difficulty in that department after the procedure.

Your bowels might take a while to return to normal, and this means gas will build up in your system, causing major cramps. You can help relieve gas cramps by moving around, drinking water, and eating foods that relieve gas, but don’t be surprised if it takes a while for your digestive system to feel normal again.

13. You’ll Need to Take It Easy (No Matter What)

I’m often tempted to take on too much as soon as I’m well enough after a C-section, but this is not a good idea. It’s always important to listen to your body and take things slow.

It doesn’t matter if you have help or previous experience; your body will need time to recuperate. Rest assured that, by being patient, you’ll be back to 100% of your former self in no time. Naps and extra help in the first few weeks are necessary for a full recovery.

14. You May Experience Numbness Around Your Incision

One of the most common side effects of a C-section is numbness around the incision area. Since the nerves in your skin are either cut or irritated by the surgery, it’s normal to experience numbness after a C-section.

While the feeling usually returns on its own in time, it can be a little unnerving. However, if you experience persistent numbness or other unusual sensations around your incision, don’t hesitate to call your doctor.

15. It’s Okay to Ask for Emotional Support

The last but important thing to keep in mind after a C-section is that it’s okay to ask for emotional support.

This support can come from your partner, family, friends, or even a professional. Regardless of the source, you need someone to confide in and listen to your concerns. Emotional and mental health after a C-section is very important, so do not hesitate to seek professional help, especially if you’re struggling.

Conclusion:

There are so many things nobody tells you about having a Cesarean section. Having a C-section delivery is a major life event, and it comes with many surprises that you might not expect. Recovery is often tough and challenging, but it won’t last forever.

Soon, you’ll be back to your normal self, back to snuggling your baby, and back to feeling that sense of control over your body. The key is to take things slow, be patient with yourself, and ask for help when you need it.

Remember, having a C-section is not an easy journey, but there’s a supportive community of women out there who are happy to cheer you on every step of the way.

As you recuperate, both physically and emotionally, it’s completely normal to take the time you need to heal fully. Your body has just done something incredible by bringing a new life into the world, so now it’s time to give yourself the care and compassion you deserve.

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