Health education topics.
Nutrition after a Cesarean Section Good nutrition is needed to speed healing after your cesarean section (C-section) and give you needed energy. Keep up the same good eating habits you developed while you were pregnant. Eat healthy foods high in protein. Protein helps the healing process and is needed for recovery. Vitamin supplementation may be … Read more
Because you have had both major surgery (a cesarean is considered major surgery) and a baby, you may have a few restrictions on your normal activities. Your doctor will tell you what the best level of activity is for you based on your condition and how well you are healing. In general: • Avoid lifting … Read more
[toc title=”Table of Contents (+/-)” hint=”Click to show or hide”] Your milk comes in on the third or fourth day after your baby is born—medicine that stops breast milk from coming in is no longer used. It is very important that you take good care of your breasts. Breast care includes wearing a good support … Read more
In the past, it was thought that once a woman had a cesarean birth, all babies she had afterward also had to be born by cesarean. That thinking has changed. Today some women who have had a cesarean birth are being allowed to try a vaginal birth with later pregnancies. If no other risk factors … Read more
A woman’s body goes through many physical changes while returning to its pre-pregnancy state. After childbirth, it may take about two months to begin to feel “normal” again. One of the most noticeable changes is a reduction in the size of your uterus, called involution. During this process, you may experience cramps, or afterpains. Over the … Read more
Proper perineal care is important in preventing infection of the bladder and uterus after a cesarean. Keep the perineum clean and free from caked or dried blood. Change sanitary pads at least every 4 hours to help prevent infection. Change pads every time you use the bathroom and when you bathe. Do not use tampons … Read more
Because your body is healing from both surgery and giving birth, any type of infection can be very serious for you. Preventing infection in your lungs, incision, uterus, and urinary tract is very important. Proper handwashing is the best thing you can do for yourself and your baby to prevent infection. Preventing infection of the … Read more
Not too long ago, new mothers stayed in bed for a week or longer after giving birth. Much of this time was spent in the hospital where both mother and her new baby received constant care. Studies now show that early discharge is generally safe for both mother and baby. Bonding begins sooner, less time … Read more
As you leave the hospital, your nurses will remind you to schedule a postpartum check-up with your doctor. Your doctor will usually want to see you 4 to 6 weeks after a vaginal birth without problems. It is very important to keep your appointment. A check-up is needed to make sure you are healing as … Read more
Check your temperature every day for the first 10 days. If your temperature is above normal (98.6° F) check it every 2 hours until your temperature is back to normal. Call your doctor if you have any of the following signs of infection or a problem: ☎ chills and/or a fever over 100.4° F ☎ … Read more