For general information on post-natal recovery & regaining your pre-pregnancy body read our Postnatal Recovery & Exercise article, but..................

What about Post-Caesar?

It’s recommended to limit all activity for at least 6 weeks after delivery, this includes bending & lifting, even being careful when getting in and out of bed. This is because during the c-section all the layers of the abdominal muscles are cut to access your uterus and your baby, so a fair amount of healing is required. Any activity that may cause your incision to open or become damaged will cause further damage and increased scar tissue. This will be extremely painful and further prolong your recovery so don’t take the warnings lightly.

Some general post-Caesar recommendations

• Put pressure on your stitches with your hands or a pillow when coughing
• When getting out of bed or up from a lying position - Roll onto your side, swing your legs over the edge of the bed & use your arms to elevate your body rather than your abdominal muscles
• Start your pelvic floor & abdominal exercises as soon as you feel comfortable, for some this may be a few days after birth, for others a week or more
• After 6 weeks if you are feeling up to it start your exercise regime with walking