Giving birth is no easy feat, whether it’s through a natural birth or a c-section. Having experienced both, I’ve found that while natural births can be challenging before delivery, recovering from a c-section can be even tougher. However, there are things you can do to aid in the recovery process for a c-section. I wish I had known about these when I had mine, as they have been beneficial to many others since then. I’ve also applied some of these tips during my natural birth recovery, and they were quite effective.
One helpful suggestion is incorporating broth into your diet, especially bone broth. It’s rich in amino acids like proline and glycine, which are crucial for collagen production and healing skin. Broth also has gelatin, which supports wound healing and skin recovery. There’s a reason why broth has been a staple in hospitals for those recovering from injuries or illnesses, though unfortunately, we’ve moved away from traditional broths, opting instead for versions laden with MSG. Traditional broth can really help with c-section recovery and also aids digestion and eases post-cesarean constipation.
I was initially skeptical about using pressure and compression post-c-section, but after trying it, I became a believer. This method involves applying light pressure, which can ease pain and speed up healing after a c-section. It also helps with non-cesarean deliveries by reducing pain and helping the uterus return to its normal size faster. During my cesarean recovery, I used a specific binder recommended by a postpartum nurse. You might want to check if your insurance covers similar devices, as they can be beneficial for both vaginal and cesarean deliveries. There are also more affordable options that fit around the abdomen, which worked well for me in later deliveries.
From my experience as a doula, I’ve noticed that the circumstances of a c-section greatly affect recovery. Emergency c-sections or ones with significant blood loss tend to have longer recovery times. However, if the surgery is calm and allows for immediate bonding with the baby, recovery seems quicker. This approach, known as a gentle cesarean, is gaining popularity and appears to help with healing.
Given that a c-section is a major surgery involving a substantial incision, using a belly salve during pregnancy can prevent stretch marks, and applying a healing salve afterward can reduce them and speed up scar healing. With approval from my doctor, I applied the healing salve often after my c-section, and it helped. This salve is also useful for the perineum after vaginal births.
Consult your doctor, but I took glutamine supplements post-surgery based on research suggesting they significantly speed up recovery. Glutamine aids in wound closure by promoting fibroblast proliferation and helps maintain lean body mass. It’s crucial after injuries when the body needs more than it can usually produce. It supports your immune system and is essential for brain function and digestion.
After receiving a recommendation from a postpartum nurse, I learned about the importance of gentle scar massage once the scar had fully healed. This massage can prevent adhesions, soften scars, and restore sensation to numb areas.
Constipation is common post-surgery and can be quite uncomfortable after a c-section. To prevent this, my midwife advised me to stay hydrated and take magnesium to ease stools. I’ve tried various forms of magnesium, and they’ve been effective.
Lastly, we often overlook the importance of sleep. After surgery or childbirth, especially if both coincide, the body needs extra rest to heal efficiently. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get enough sleep after my c-section because my baby was in the NICU, and I believe this delayed my recovery. Sleep supports quicker tissue healing, and though it might be challenging to get good rest with a newborn, it’s worth prioritizing and seeking help to ensure you get enough rest. This article offers some tips for improving sleep quality.
Have you experienced a c-section? What strategies helped you recover? Feel free to share your experiences below!
