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Coping after a Caesarean
Emotional Side-Effects
Reactions to a Caesarean section vary and are largely affected by
how well the mother was prepared for the operation and what kind of
experience she endured. If she hadn't even contemplated the
possibility of a Caesar or doesn't fully understand why it was
necessary, she may end up feeling extremely negative about the
birth. Feeling cheated, disappointed, guilty, angry or sad take over
from the happiness she should have enjoyed. If she had a general
anaesthetic she may even have a sense of unreality that this is
actually her baby, although moms do report that this passes once
they start feeling better and get to know their baby.
After a Caesar the new mom usually doesn't have immediate contact
with her baby and may not have the strength to spend that much time
with her newborn once she is back in the ward. This may also make
her feel inadequate. But, with enough rest and the wearing off of
the anaesthetic, she will in time begin to marvel at the most
perfect little creature in the world!
If you do happen to have negative feelings about the birth, it may
be wise to talk to other mothers in the ward, who are in a similar
position, this won't only offer you valuable support, but a
permanent friendship could be formed from sharing birthing
experiences.
Mobility
Although it may seem extremely cruel at the time, the nurses will
insist that you become mobile as soon as possible after the
operation, this will not only benefit the quality time spent with
your newborn in those first few hours, but will also improve your
circulation aiding in a faster recovery. Do ask for assistance
though, as this experience is quite painful and you may feel dizzy
and a little nauseous. It may also help to ask for your bed to be
lowered, which will give you a chance to sit on the edge of the bed
before taking on this great hurdle. Take your time, remembering that
the sooner you get moving the sooner you will recover.
You may be asked to use the toilet on your first day, and if you
have problems opening your bowels, you may be given a mild laxative.
The catheter will usually be removed 24 hours after the operation,
with the drip remaining in place for about two days. On the day of
being discharged from the hospital (usually after 4 days), the
dressings will be removed from the wound, and the doctor will check
for any signs of infection, if all seems to be healing well, the
stitches will be removed a few days later.
Pain at the site of the incision
As the anaesthetic gradually wears off, you will start experiencing
pain, but the severity of this depends on whether this is your first
or second caesaean (subsequent incisions are usually less painful
than the first). The cut will be covered with suitable dressing and
you will be entitled to pain relieving medication
Afterpains
During breastfeeding you may notice a sudden increase in blood flow
or abdominal cramping, but these contractions are a normal process
in the uterus regaining it's former shape and vital in the closure
of the exposed blood vessels, thus preventing further haemmorrhage.
Removal of stiches or clips
Your doctor will check your wound daily for any signs of infection
and to monitor the correct healing process, if everything is in
order he will remove the stitches/clips four to six days after the
delivery of your baby. This procedure is quite painless, but there
may be slight discomfort during the removal of the dressing, but
again this depends entirely on your personal pain threshold. Once
this is complete, your doctor will advise you on the proper care of
the wound when you leave hospital.
Tips for afterwards
- Rest as much as possible on the first day
- Keep your intake of fluid up, to help counteract infection
- Choose to shower rather than bath, as this will ensure that
the wound is washed by clean water
- Dry the scar thoroughly after showering with a clean tissue or
paper towel
- Aid the healing process, by exposing the scar to fresh air and
if possible a little sunshine
- Support your abdomen with you hands when sneezing or coughing,
or try bending over so as to not put added pressure on the scar
- Don't lift heavy objects for at least six weeks prior to the
Caesar, and always remember to bend your knees when lifting other
objects off the ground
- Breastfeeding is absolutely possible after a Caesar, and it is
only through trial and error that you will find the most
comfortable position
Going Home
It is quite normal for you to feel unsteady on arriving home,
eventhough you may have felt quite fit during your stay in hospital.
You must remember that you have just had a major abdominal operation
as well as the emotional side-effects of the anaesthetic, so forget
about the housework (you have a wonderful excuse) and take time to
rest getting to know your bundle of joy. It may take a month for you
to recover fully, so don't compare your state of health to friends
who have had a vaginal delivery. Joining a postnatal support group,
may help you cope through this difficult period, or even just
getting out of the house for a morning. Ask a friend to help out
with transport, as you will be advised not to drive for a while
after the operation, in case of an emergency stop which may damage
your scar.
Love-making
Some woman may initially feel unattractive with their altered
appearance, but the bloated feeling will soon pass and the scar will
quickly fade from it's bright red state. As soon as you feel ready,
you may resume love-making, and you and your partner may just have
to experiment with different positions that put the least pressure
on your scar.
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