Postnatal Care After A Cesarean Delivery

Monday, January 2, 2012, 15:10

Cesarean delivery has become really common these days. Some pregnant women prefer C section delivery as they are scared of vaginal delivery. However, postnatal care after a C section is very important as the stitches take time to heal. Often doctors advise bed rest for 2 months after a cesarean delivery. What other care is required in the postnatal stage after a C section?

Wound: As C section involves stitching and the incision take time to heal. Avoid taking bath for few days till the doctor advises. Water can lead to infections and therefore making the wound more painful. Avoid wearing tight clothes and it is best to wear cotton clothes including garments. This keeps the skin dry and free from moisture.

Dressing: Taking bath is difficult after a C section. Postnatal care after a cesarean delivery should include weekly dressing of the wound. Air dry the wound after bath (when the dressing is removed) and rub gently with a cotton cloth. Always keep the incision dry to avoid skin infections.

Slow walk: After few days of C section, you have to start walking slowly. This is very important. Postnatal care after a cesarean delivery is very critical. Stretching abdominal muscles for first 4-6 weeks can be dangerous. Avoid walking fast. Take help of your family member and walk slowly for 3-5 minutes.

Food: Apart from having a balanced diet, include vitamin C rich food. This speeds up the recovery process after a C section incision. Broccoli, asparagus, spinach, Brussels sprouts, green peas, oranges, peach, berries, grapefruit and apricot are few vitamin C rich food. Avoid having oily and spicy food for at least 20 days.

Postnatal care after a cesarean delivery is less painful and recovery is also fast if the care is proper. The incision takes 5-8 weeks to heal completely but after 5 weeks, you can gradually start your normal routine. Avoid lifting heavy weights for 6-8 months after a C section.