The following is simply a list of all the things you can do before, during and after a caesarean birth to help improve both your experience and your recovery. This is worth thinking about even if you are planning a vaginal birth, as, in many countries, a quarter of births end in caesarean delivery (planned or otherwise).
Before:
- Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regime
- Accept the anti-nausea meds offered prior to surgery
- Be aware you do not need sedatives prior to surgery and have the right to refuse them (I am referring to sedatives, NOT anaesthetic)
- Remain hydrated, only stopping liquid intake 2 hours prior to surgery
During:
- A dedicated team member to keep you and your partner up to date and answer any questions
- A doula (as well as birth partner) permitted in theatre if you have been working with one in the lead up to birth
- Surgical gown on backwards (so it opens at the front) to enable skin-to-skin time in theatre if desired
- Delayed cord clamping unless in an emergency situation
- Baby passed straight to you unless medical attention is required. Weighing, cleaning etc. can be delayed
- Skin closure with stitches, not staples (unless staples are medically necessary)
- Appropriate pain relief regime begun immediately
- Pressure shoes or stockings applied
After:
- Encouraged to eat and drink within 2 hours, particularly peppermint to aid with gas (no fizzy drinks)
- Immediate breastfeeding support if breastfeeding is the intention
- Catheter removal as soon as possible, no later than 12 hours (unless specific medical reasons require it remain in place)
- Pressure stockings remain in place for duration of hospital stay
- Supported to walk the same day as surgery
- Keep on top of the pain medication regime – once you fall behind by an hour or more it can be difficult to build back up to an effective level
- Accept all the help you are offered; you can always say no thank you later
Once at home:
- Take it easy. Baby and you come first, not a guest’s cup of tea – let them make it and ask them to unload the washing machine while they are at it. Your on-going pain meds can mask signs that you might be over-doing it, so pay close attention
- Avoid touching the surgical site, but use clean hands if you really need to
- Keep an eye on the surgical site for early signs of infection
- Consider continuing to wear the pressure stockings for an extra few days
- Do not be tempted to resume exercise too soon, listen to your body – twinges reveal you may be over-doing it. With care you can begin very gentle exercise prior to 6-week wellness check (I am talking a gentle walk, I am definitely not suggesting situps, nor even a short jog etc.)
Some of these ideas are from an excellent article on ChildbirthU
And much more detail can be found in Caesarean Birth: A Positive Approach to Preparation and Recovery.