How do I recover from a c-section?

Bottom lineRecover from a c-section - major surgery needing about six weeks for the wound - by keeping it clean and dry, wearing loose high-waisted clothes, walking gently to prevent clots, avoiding heavy lifting and driving until cleared, supporting your tummy when coughing, taking pain relief, and resting; contact a clinician for signs of wound infection, heavy bleeding, severe pain, or a red, swollen leg.

A cesarean is major abdominal surgery, so recovery takes longer than a vaginal birth - usually around six weeks for the wound, and often more to feel fully back to normal. Gentle care and patience help you heal well.

Care for your wound

• Keep it clean and dry, and follow your team's dressing advice
• Wear loose, high-waisted underwear and clothes that don't rub the scar
• Watch for infection - increasing redness, swelling, heat, pus, a foul smell, or fever

Move and rest wisely

• Walk gently and often once able, to aid healing and prevent blood clots
• Avoid heavy lifting (nothing heavier than your baby) and strenuous exercise for about six weeks
• Support your tummy with a pillow when coughing, laughing, or getting up
• Rest and accept help - don't rush

Manage pain and the basics

• Take pain relief as advised
• Keep up fluids and fiber to ease constipation, and don't strain
• Avoid driving until you can do an emergency stop comfortably and your insurer/clinician agree

When to get help

Contact a clinician for signs of wound infection, heavy bleeding, severe pain, or a red, swollen, painful leg (possible clot).

Femora helps you track your recovery and wound healing so you can pace activity and catch warning signs early.