C-sections are increasingly common, for a variety of reasons, in many countries including the U.S. A C-section, or Caesarean sections, or simply “Cesarean” is a medical procedure that in which doctors create an incision in the abdomen and uterus in order to bypass vaginal delivery. Many are performed during complicated birthing situations, or simply at the mother’s request. Many expectant mothers considering a Cesarean have questions about the procedure, and even more have questions aftward. How will a C-section affect a mother’s period? Will it cause complications such as bleeding, scarring or swollen feet?
This article offers an overview of issues associated with Caesareans, as well as excerpts and links to more in-depth articles on specific concerns related to C-sections. Mothers can expect hospital stays of about 3 days following a C-section, according to WebMD. Deaths a C-section are more often than not a result of existing complications, not the operation itself, according to some reports. However, C-sections also increase the risks of future births, whether they are vaginal or additional C-sections. Natural births, by contrast tend to be easier and less risky the second time around.
Cesarean Scars
C-section scars can be vertical or horizontal, and can include marks from the incision as well as staples or stitches used to close it. Scarring tends to be between four and six inches long, between the length of an average finger and an average hand. While itching sensations on or around the scar can be normal, About Health recommends contacting a physician in case of pain or oozing that might indicate an infection. Scarring heals slowly over time, but is bolstered by good nutrition and other healthy habits. C-section scars will fade and narrow in a matter of years, but never completely disappear.
Exercise After A C-Section
Lifting heavy objects after a C-section is unsafe, and you should consult your physician on a reasonable timetable for resuming your exercise routine. Parents.com recommends three yoga poses for regaining streength after a Cesarean, including the bridge, the forward bend, and a modified cobra pose. Baby Center has tips on losing weight after a C-section, including light exercise that won’t damage your health. For serious athletes, extra care needs to be taken even after the standard 6-week moratorium on exercise.
“Think of a C-section as you would a surgery such as an ACL repair in the knee,” Jessie Mundell writes in Returning To Exercise After A C-Section. “The rehabilitation for this is a 9-12 month process. There are steps and checks along the way with the surgeon, the physiotherapist, and a set timeline of when it is safe to return to certain activities. In my opinion, this should be how C-sections are treated as well.”
Mundell’s article, accessible in the link above, provides detailed advice on specific exercises, as well as tips for mothers recovering from vaginal births who face similar stress on the pelvic floor.
Period After A C-Section
New mothers can expect their first postpartum period to be very different, and include spotting or heavier-than-normal bleeding. Serious bleeding after a C-section should be brought to the attention of a doctor. Periods can also take a few month to normalize.
Swollen Feet
After a C-section swollen feet can develop as the body keeps fluids taken in by the IV and exacerbated by Oxytocin drugs. Short term relief can be found by elevating the feet, to help fluid drain, according to eHow. Reducing salt intake and increasing light exercise like walking can relieve symptoms in the medium term. If swelling doesn’t go down about a week after receiving a C-section, mothers should consider getting their blood-pressure checked, according to eHow.
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