C-Section Awareness:
A Guide on how to care for yourself and body post operation
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April is #InternationalCesareanSectionAwarenessMonth.
It focuses on ALL topics surrounding cesareans including reducing preventable cesareans and supporting cesarean recovery. Recovering from a c-section is tough so we wanted share some easy tips that helped us aid our recovery.
1. Heal
The use of coconut oil on the incision area is a natural remedy to help your skin heal and recover. Each evening before bedtime, massage the oil over the scar in a circular motion.
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Herbivore Coconut Oil, LOOKFANTASTIC, £32
2. Repair
Silicone strips restore and strengthen connective tissue to flatten and soften the scar, improving overall aesthetic outcome. Once your scar has fully recovered, place strip directly over the clean, dry and healed incision area and wear daily.
Silicone Scar Sheets, AL'IVER, £14.96
3. Rest
This will seem like an obvious one but sleep is crucial in giving our bodies the time to rest and heal. We know this is tough with a new born but use the people around you to take over while you get some shut eye.
Lavender Oil, Neal's Yard, £7.13
4. Big Briefs
Yep, the bigger the better. A pair of high-waisted cotton knickers that come up over the incision area will help reduce infection.
Organic Cotton High-Waisted Briefs, Organic Basics, £58
5. Good Nutrition
Good nutrition is just as important in the months after delivery as it was whilst you were pregnant. Eating a good balance of foods will help you regain your strength and speed up your recovery.
Feeding Your Pregnancy E-book, www.ellieclarkewellbeing.com, £25
6. Water
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, as this will help with constipation. If you need additional help with this, try a stool softener (oh the glamour!)
Re-usable Water Bottle, Chilly's, £25
One final note from us, just remember your body will continue to undergo physical changes for a while after your baby is born. Some related to c-sections may include:
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Cramping/afterpains as your uterus returns to it's pre-pregnancy size.
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Diastasis Recti or the separation of your abdominal muscles.
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Skin changes like loose skin or itchiness.
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Mental health changes - you have undergone major surgery, be kind to yourself during the healing process.
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If you're unsure on anything, make sure you ask your doctor. Peace of mind is priceless. For more information please visit the NHS website.
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