Cesarean Recovery at Home

The recovery time that follows the birth of your baby is called postpartum and means “after birth.” Postpartum is a special time, as you get to know your baby. But it is also a time of adjustment; you may still feel some pain from giving birth.

As you recover at home with your baby, there are many ways for you to care for yourself as you continue to heal during this postpartum period.

The anesthesia and loss of blood from your Cesarean birth will probably make you feel tired, so it is very important to get plenty of rest. If possible, sleep when your baby sleeps. If your incision still hurts, use pillows to get comfortable.

Although these feelings may be scary at times, just remember that postpartum depression is common, and that it eventually goes away. It is important to get enough rest if you are too anxious, and to try to move your body if you feel tired much of the time.

During your postpartum recovery at home, it is very important to keep all your follow-up appointments with your health care team – who can address any questions or concerns you may have about how to care for yourself and your baby as you recover at home.