https://boards.hellobee.com/ Pregnancy, Baby and Parenting blog, by Hellobee en Wed, 06 May 2026 21:30:22 +0000 https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721750 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 18:31:31 +0000 petitenoisette 2721750@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I don't have much to add for 1-3, but regarding 4, just be mindful you might be nauseous after. </p> <p>My c-section (unplanned after 40 hrs of labor) was at 4pm and that night was rough bc I couldn't sit up without puking. i was ok and able to eat the next am though. </p> <p>Keep on top of your meds (800mg Advil did the trick for me) and stool softener. I was able to drive after two weeks; according to my dr the driving restrictions are more about not being on narcotic painkillers. </p> <p>Good luck! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721741 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 17:18:05 +0000 Mamag511 2721741@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1) What tips/tricks/products aided in your recovery? Anything I should stock up on now?<br /> Getting up and moving really helped. That and staying on top of pain meds. I also couldn't stand anything on my incision, so I had to wear all high-waisted things for awhile. Didn't wear any type of support belt after and was ok!</p> <p>2) When did you get cleared for exercise? And when did you feel up to exercise again?<br /> I got cleared at 6 weeks. Was a good 5-6 months though before I really felt comfortable.</p> <p>3) Any tips for managing the scar and helping it heal/fade nicely? My coworker says hers is still painful and ugly 12 years later and if there's a chance of avoiding that I'd love to.<br /> My scar is barely noticeable. My OB was amazing with this! Mine is def still numb in areas and is more sore now that I'm pregnant again, but when I wasn't pregnant I didn't really notice it!</p> <p>ETA 4) When were you able to eat after? I have to fast from midnight beforehand and its scheduled at 1:30pm. I suspect I'll be ravenous!<br /> So my cs was at 2:30AM and I was on a liquid diet that entire next day. I think I ate again by 7 or 8 (but all clear foods). Day 2 I could definitely eat again. Hope you won't have to wait that long!!! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721728 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 16:43:42 +0000 PixieStix 2721728@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1) What tips/tricks/products aided in your recovery? Anything I should stock up on now?</p> <p>I had an emergency c section, and NO ONE gave or told me to use a belly band, or use a pillow to grasp on to my abdomen when sneezing/coughing/laughing, etc. I'd have coughing fits and start crying because it hurt. Apparently they were supposed to give me a support pillow, so I just suffered! I don't think I necessarily needed a band though. It's a really good hospital too, go figure. Aside from that, maybe some high waisted granny panties. :p Instead of wearing those mesh panties that the hospital provides, and maybe your own feminine pads (I didn't mind the giant hospital pads though).</p> <p>2) When did you get cleared for exercise? And when did you feel up to exercise again?</p> <p>Standard 6 weeks. Before that, I was doing stairs in my home every day, even though doc told me not to. I didn't listen because I got tired of being on the same floor in my home -- being depressed didn't help! But I didn't hurt myself. As others have said, get walking ASAP because it really does help. I went back to the gym probably at 2-3 months PP but did not do anything heavy on the abs. I was still only slightly sore and therefor protective of the area. Plus, numbness lasted several months for me.</p> <p>3) Any tips for managing the scar and helping it heal/fade nicely? Not really. I didn't do anything to mine, but I don't think the scar is that bad. Maybe because I've almost always been over weight and had large stretch marks even years before thinking of having children, but mine doesn't bother me.</p> <p>ETA 4) When were you able to eat after? Can't remember exactly. I had my c section at 4 in the morning. I want to say I ate a little something later for lunch but didn't have an appetite for a day or two. Even then, I didn't eat much until I got home from the hospital -- but that could just be because it was a rough emergency situation, first baby, and I was super depressed. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721724 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 16:37:48 +0000 lioneyes 2721724@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I had a scheduled C, ended up going into labor, but did NOT PUSH. And I think that really helped make it a MUCH easier recovery process. It is major surgery, but if you're not already exhausted when you go in, it's manageable.</p> <p>1) I bought a belly binder on amazon, but ended up preferring to use an ace-type bandage they brought me in the hospital. I wore this for a few weeks and I really think it helped, plus it made me feel like my stomach and back were more protected when lifting or pushing (light) stuff.</p> <p>2) When did you get cleared for exercise? And when did you feel up to exercise again?<br /> I was cleared to exercise at 6 weeks maybe? And I started doing Stroller Strides at 8. But was walking from the day after my section (I highly reco this! will help the healing!)</p> <p>3) Any tips for managing the scar and helping it heal/fade nicely?<br /> Mederma</p> <p>4) When were you able to eat after?<br /> I could have clear liquids, no carbonation and lemon ice only from after my section (DS born at 1:15pm) until the next morning. I was hungry but not THAT hungry after the surgery. I think I ate a turkey sandwich the next morning after I got my cath out and showered and generally felt more normal. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721707 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 15:55:41 +0000 Mrsbells 2721707@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@JennyPenny: i was on a liquid diet after the c-section and didnt get to eat solid food til the next day.<br /> In terms of the way the scar heals you dont have much control but once it heals you can massage it to help get the numbness away and improve the circulation<br /> I think the older c-sections from many years ago were a lot worse these days the scar ususally heals up nicely<br /> I used a belly binder and it helps with getting up and stuff but I wonder if that caused the delayed healing because the tight binder pushed the skin so one side was overlapping wrongly.<br /> I would just keep in mind that is is a slow heal process, getting up and moving around can be very tough in the first few weeks. I would say it took months for me to feel ready for exercise. I am 6 months pp and still have pain now and then </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721684 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 15:03:41 +0000 ShootingStar 2721684@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>My recommendations are to take the pain meds, and try to move to an earlier time. But if you really can't move it, I had jello several hours before my 2nd one and that counts as a clear liquid. I was then able to eat when I was back in recovery. I had been pretty nauseous during the surgery so I started with a couple crackers. That might have been maybe an hour after being back in my room and 2 hours after surgery started? Hence my recommendation to try to have it moved earlier. Best case scenario you aren't eating until around 3:30/4:00 that day. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721575 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 12:39:56 +0000 littlecasita1122 2721575@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I wish someone would have warned me about the swelling after. They pumped me full of fluids and my legs and ankles were so so so swollen for a good 10 days. It made walking around the hospital difficult and I could barely make it up the stairs once we were home. Being comfy, stretchy shoes with you to wear home! I had to use my slippers. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721547 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 11:50:15 +0000 paigeface 2721547@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1) What tips/tricks/products aided in your recovery? Anything I should stock up on now?</p> <p>I really liked having a stomach binder as well. It was comfortable and made me feel better. They gave me one at the hospital to take home with me. I also stocked up on really soft panties that didn't rub the incision. </p> <p>2) When did you get cleared for exercise? And when did you feel up to exercise again? </p> <p>My doctor cleared me at 8 weeks and I felt good to start exercise again then but I did take it easy. I feel like your body will let you know when you're ready and how intense to workout.</p> <p>3) Any tips for managing the scar and helping it heal/fade nicely? My coworker says hers is still painful and ugly 12 years later and if there's a chance of avoiding that I'd love to.</p> <p>Mine still is numb and feels odd as @Banana330 said. It's been a year and 1/2 and I still think it looks kind of big but my husband always mentions it looks like its much smaller. I have started using coco butter on it every morning in hopes to shrink it. </p> <p>I also totally agree with @erinbaderin to get up and start walking as soon as you can. A nurse pushed me even though it was painful and I cried but I am glad she did. I started to feel like myself again when I started to get around. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721535 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 11:31:17 +0000 Banana330 2721535@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1. Use a pillow clenched tightly to your stomach if you're getting out of bed, have to cough or sneeze or laugh! Stool softeners are still your friend. Keep taking your pain meds on the schedule. I didn't have a belly binder last time, but might try one this time. Agree with walk around as soon as possible. high waisted pants were helpful too. </p> <p>2. Listen to the restrictions. I wasn't allowed to drive, lift anything heavier than DD or push the stroller for 6 weeks. I did go for walks and get out but I'm glad it didn't over do it. I didn't do anything other than gentle walks until 6 weeks. It still felt weird to lay down on a numb belly after 8 weeks but I went back to yoga. </p> <p> 3. once your scar is healed, start massaging it regularly to prevent scar tissue build up. Mine felt numb and weird for ages.</p> <p>4. I was an emergency c section in the evening. I can't really remember eating but for sure the next morning. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721515 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 11:04:22 +0000 bubblegum 2721515@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@JennyPenny:<br /> 1) What tips/tricks/products aided in your recovery? Anything I should stock up on now? My best tip is when you feel up to getting up and walking, DO IT! It will be hard but I swear once I was up and walking AND able to shower, I felt so much better. I loved wearing this <a href="http://www.target.com/p/maidenform-174-self-expressions-174-women-s-high-waist-boyshorts-525/-/A-50359168" rel="nofollow">http://www.target.com/p/maidenform-174-self-expressions-174-women-s-high-waist-boyshorts-525/-/A-50359168</a> after. I think I started wearing them like 4 weeks after surgery and it helped me feel like everything was place. </p> <p>2) When did you get cleared for exercise? And when did you feel up to exercise again?<br /> 6 weeks for anything intense! I was up for it maybe at 8 weeks. </p> <p>3) Any tips for managing the scar and helping it heal/fade nicely? I think it really depends on the type of stitching your doctor does. I did do anything but just clean it well and it looks amazing! Especially compared to other scars I've seen. I hear bio oil is great though if you want to try.</p> <p>4) When were you able to eat after? My c-section was at at night so I ate the next morning buttttt I also didn't fast because I was suppose to be natural sooooo not sure how soon they let you eat since I just chose to wait until morning.</p> <p>One thing I want to as that was very true for me was it legit felt like my organs were all over the place for MONTHS. It took awhile for things to settle and the scar was sensitive as well. Just be prepared. I say after two weeks I felt about 80% myself and after 4 weeks I was pretty great. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721507 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 10:53:58 +0000 JennyPenny 2721507@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@krispi: @ValentineMommy: @Mrs. Blue: Ok, cool. I'll just ask for one at the hospital and save the bellefit for later maybe. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721498 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 10:40:41 +0000 Mrs. Blue 2721498@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@JennyPenny: It might work, but it's hard to tell. I think the zipper might rub wrong. The thing that is nice in the early days with the velcro ones, is you can get it however tight you need even when your size/shape is going to change immensely in those first couple weeks. You definitely want something that gives the lower abdomen a lot of support. I have had c-sections at two different hospitals, and they always provided one as soon as I ask, so hopefully, they just have something and you can use the one you have whenever you're ready to switch. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721496 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 10:36:43 +0000 ValentineMommy 2721496@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1) What tips/tricks/products aided in your recovery? Anything I should stock up on now?<br /> Definitely a stomach binder. I wore it immediately after and it helped so much with support. Also, once you're cleared to walk after your csec, do it. Walking around the hospital (laps around the maternity ward) helped me heal so much faster after ds2 and gets your digestive system up and running again. </p> <p>2) When did you get cleared for exercise? And when did you feel up to exercise again? I was cleared at 6 weeks. I personally didn't feel ready at that point though. Prob closer to 8 weeks for me. </p> <p>3) Any tips for managing the scar and helping it heal/fade nicely? Since I knew I was having more babies (and csec) I never really did anything to mine. It healed aesthetically just fine. I will say, it's going to hurt/be uncomfortable/weird feeling for much longer than you'd think is normal. Like, I still had weird twinges at a year pp. It's fairly normal however. Pain, on the other hand, is not, I don't think. This time, since she's our last, I bought earthmama angel baby c-mama healing salve as well as some silicone strips. I started using the earthmama salve on my stretch marks, and even dh was amazed at how they faded already! Hopefully it's just as good on the incision. </p> <p>4) When were you able to eat after? With ds1 I was able to eat right after. With ds2, I had to wait longer because he came before his scheduled date. I ended up throwing up after him too. That wasn't fun. </p> <p>Also - I used the bellefit dual girdle after ds2. I had to wait maybe a week or two, because it was too painful to get on before then. I used the belly bandit before then, which is less comfortable, but much easier to get on/off. I had that one left from when I had ds1....if I hadn't had it, I would have just used the hospital binder they sent me home with until the bellefit worked. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721486 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 10:24:16 +0000 krispi 2721486@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>That would probably work. I haven't worn one before, but it looks like the zipper might come pretty close to the scar area. If so, that might not be good for the early days. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721453 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 09:56:09 +0000 JennyPenny 2721453@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@krispi: @Mrs. Blue: @mrskansas: For those of you recommending belly binders - I used a bellefit with DS1 and still have it. Do you think this accomplishes the same thing? <a href="https://www.bellefit.com/product/dualgirdle/" rel="nofollow">https://www.bellefit.com/product/dualgirdle/</a> </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721446 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 09:51:09 +0000 2PeasinaPod 2721446@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1) What tips/tricks/products aided in your recovery? Anything I should stock up on now? Get a good belt - I actually had a very itchy reaction to the one they gave me in the hospital with my 1st son, so I bought a breathable bamboo one for my 2nd son and it helped so much. It just helps you to feel like you're not going to pop a stitch if you sneeze. Also stock up on pads. You'll be surprised what comes out even though you've had a c-section. And bandages for your incision. It's in a bad spot where it rubs on your pants, so you'll want something as a buffer in between. </p> <p>2) When did you get cleared for exercise? And when did you feel up to exercise again? Cleared for exercise at 6 weeks pp. With my first, I was out walking the baby in the stroller around our neighborhood after 2 weeks. With my second, my incision actually opened up b/c I was doing too much. Recovery with my second c-section was so much harder. Please listen to your body and take it easy. You'll only want to go up or down stairs once/day for the first few weeks. </p> <p>3) Any tips for managing the scar and helping it heal/fade nicely? My coworker says hers is still painful and ugly 12 years later and if there's a chance of avoiding that I'd love to. I think this all depends on you and how your doctor stitched you up. For both of my CS, the doctors stitched me up perfectly. You can barely see my scar, but there is a small bulge there from internal scar tissue. It happens after 2 sections. It's still numb there, and I'm 18 months pp with my second. </p> <p>ETA 4) When were you able to eat after? I have to fast from midnight beforehand and its scheduled at 1:30pm. I suspect I'll be ravenous! I was able to eat once I was out of recovery. I was so nervous throughout the morning that I didn't realize I was ravenous until well after. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721441 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 09:46:57 +0000 Mrs. Blue 2721441@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@JennyPenny: @LBee: The first c-sec, I bled for weeks and weeks. The second time, it was maybe two weeks but I still had a little spotting for a while after that. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721437 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 09:42:35 +0000 erinbaderin 2721437@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I've had two c sections for breech babies, and they've both been pretty easy and uncomplicated.</p> <p>1) What tips/tricks/products aided in your recovery? Anything I should stock up on now? I didn't really have any products or anything that helped my recovery, I had never seen or heard of the binders that I often see recommended. High waisted underwear was about the only special thing I acquired.</p> <p>2) When did you get cleared for exercise? And when did you feel up to exercise again? Like everybody else, I'm pretty sure they said six weeks but listen to your body. My doctor told me it would probably be more like six months before I felt totally like my old self, which I scoffed at because after a week I felt more or less ok, but it really was true - even a few months later I got winded a little more easily, etc. And no lifting anything heavier than the baby for six weeks, which I kind of did with my first and definitely did not do with my second when I had a 2 year old at home.</p> <p>3) Any tips for managing the scar and helping it heal/fade nicely? My coworker says hers is still painful and ugly 12 years later and if there's a chance of avoiding that I'd love to. I did nothing for my scar, and it's fine, I think it's all the skill/technique of the surgeon and probably luck. It's also completely hidden unless I'm naked, so the scar itself doesn't really concern me. </p> <p>ETA 4) When were you able to eat after? I have to fast from midnight beforehand and its scheduled at 1:30pm. I suspect I'll be ravenous! I remember being able to eat whenever I wanted after, I think, but I don't remember being very hungry. That being said my C-sections were both at 6:30am. With my second I had internal bleeding after and they thought I might have to have a second surgery so they kept making me fast again - I had the c section, I think I got some lunch, then they wouldn't let me have dinner, then they said I could have dinner (around 9pm, after the cafeteria was closed, THANKS HOSPITAL) but no breakfast, etc. I remember being frustrated and annoyed but not really all that hungry. </p> <p>Definitely get up and walking as soon as you can. Every hospital has different protocols - mine made me keep the catheter in for 24 hours (and the IV the first time, the second time I had to keep it for 48 because I needed a blood transfusion) and once I got that out and put real clothes on instead of the gown, plus was able to do a little walking, I felt much better. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721434 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 09:37:25 +0000 LBee 2721434@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@JennyPenny: 6 weeks. I was on the line of calling my doctor. It legit would not stop. I'm not sure if I was a special snowflake and maybe others can address this. Obviously I :heart: -ed bleeding in my pregnancy so maybe I just have a propensity to bleed? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721433 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 09:35:04 +0000 JennyPenny 2721433@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Mrs. Blue: Omigosh! So much information in that thread - its amazing! Thank you!!</p> <p>@krispi: Hmm... With DS1 I slept on a twin bed in the nursery for the first few weeks so that I could a) have easy access for nursing b) start DS1 in his crib right away which was important to us and c) let DH get a full nights sleep so he could be on during the day. Sounds like I might need to rethink this arrangement the 2nd time around :-/</p> <p>@LBee: Thanks lady! So how long did you bleed if you recall? I guess I just assumed it would be less bleeding than a vaginal delivery, but I suppose the body still has plenty to get rid of regardless... </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721421 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 09:26:51 +0000 LBee 2721421@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Hey lady! Feel free to message me with any questions, I had a c-section with T so I've got some experience. I obviously didn't have a 2.5 year old at home, though. </p> <p>1) What tips/tricks/products aided in your recovery? Anything I should stock up on now?<br /> Nothing out of the ordinary helped with my recovery. I didn't use a belly binder or anything and I was just fine. My husband actually went back to work fairly quickly so I wouldn't say I particularly took it especially easy either. I will say I remember bleeding longer that anyone else in our group, so maybe just be prepared mentally for that? </p> <p>2) When did you get cleared for exercise? And when did you feel up to exercise again?<br /> 6 weeks for high impact workouts was what I was told. I couldn't lift anything over 15 lbs prior to my 6 weeks appointment. I was walking on fairly flat terrain at 2-3 weeks. </p> <p>3) Any tips for managing the scar and helping it heal/fade nicely? My coworker says hers is still painful and ugly 12 years later and if there's a chance of avoiding that I'd love to.<br /> Again, I did nothing special and my scar looks fine / normal.<br /> I have no pain associated with it. For awhile the area was numb, but that went away once T was 6 months. I barely notice my scar and it doesn't bother me. I did feel some tugging around it when I was newly pregnant, but that's about it. If you've had surgery before (I had), I would expect to scar similarly. </p> <p>4) When were you able to eat after? I have to fast from midnight beforehand and its scheduled at 1:30pm. I suspect I'll be ravenous!<br /> They fed me immediately (might have been clear foods), although I wasn't starving. My c-section wasn't until 12:30 PM and I think adrenaline / nerves kept me from really noticing I was even hungry. I ate when they provided food after, but it wasn't my first focus like I would have imagined. </p> <p>All in all, my c-section experience was fairly low key and I have no lasting ill effects and did nothing particularly special. If I have a c-section for #2, my focus will be on preparing T for it. I think your recovery will be most impacted by how much you are able to not lift DS. The usual horror stories I hear are when people have their incisions break open.</p> <p>ETA: I almost forgot my biggest tip I always tell people!! Walk the halls at least 3 times a day in the hospital and walk as soon as you can! It'll hurt like hell, but I credit my recovery to it (and had multiple nurses tell me walking immediately helps recovery). </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721414 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 09:19:17 +0000 krispi 2721414@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I didn't get anything from the hospital, but I ordered a couple of these to wear for support. They have a special patch that protects the scar. These made it a lot more comfortable to be up and walking around:<br /> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/UpSpring-Baby-C-Panty-Incision-C-Section/dp/B017WJI9TK/ref=cts_ap_1_vtp?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&#038;pf_rd_p=2897711222&#038;pf_rd_r=FGPR4JD5ET7W917MRNAG&#038;pd_rd_wg=F7oHX&#038;pf_rd_s=desktop-detail-softlines&#038;pf_rd_t=40701&#038;pd_rd_i=B017WJI9RW&#038;pd_rd_w=R9Paf&#038;pf_rd_i=desktop-detail-softlines&#038;pd_rd_r=FGPR4JD5ET7W917MRNAG&#038;_encoding=UTF8&#038;th=1&#038;psc=1" rel="nofollow">https://www.amazon.com/UpSpring-Baby-C-Panty-Incision-C-Section/dp/B017WJI9TK/ref=cts_ap_1_vtp?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&#038;pf_rd_p=2897711222&#038;pf_rd_r=FGPR4JD5ET7W917MRNAG&#038;pd_rd_wg=F7oHX&#038;pf_rd_s=desktop-detail-softlines&#038;pf_rd_t=40701&#038;pd_rd_i=B017WJI9RW&#038;pd_rd_w=R9Paf&#038;pf_rd_i=desktop-detail-softlines&#038;pd_rd_r=FGPR4JD5ET7W917MRNAG&#038;_encoding=UTF8&#038;th=1&#038;psc=1</a></p> <p>I wasn't planning on a c-section, and some of the things that surprised me were 1. How hard it was getting out of bed. We have a memory foam mattress, and I had to have my husband help me out of bed in the morning for a couple of weeks. I was okay on our other furniture because it has arms for support, and I was okay on the non-memory foam bed in the guest room, but our bed was a struggle. This was especially hard on both of us for middle of the night feedings, because he had to help me up and then go back to bed, and he had to go back to work pretty early.</p> <p>2. It was really hard for me to bend down for a few weeks. Baby holders like the swing and the rock and play are low to the ground, and I had a hard time getting her in and out of those when I was alone. I know it's technically a no-no, but the easiest thing for me when I had her by myself was to use the bouncy seat on top of another surface until I could bend over.</p> <p>I think I was cleared for all activity at 6 weeks post-partum. I started walking around the neighborhood with the stroller a little before that. Hills were hard for me for a few more weeks.</p> <p>I haven't done anything special to the scar. I still have some numbness in that area, but it doesn't bother me. What does bother me is that the rest of my stomach now hangs over the scar, but I'm not sure how much I can do about that... </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721406 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 09:10:07 +0000 bookwormmama 2721406@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1. I had an unplanned CS with my first. I had packed my bag for a CS though just in case. I brought several pairs of pants to wear and I thought I'd want things that went above my incision, but I had a pair of pants with a thick, tighter waistband and that was the pair I preferred to wear. I liked feeling the support on the incision. My hospital didn't give me a belt option and I never used anything like that.</p> <p>2. I couldn't carry more than 15 pounds for like 4 weeks I think. So I couldn't carry LO in his carseat. I didn't have a follow up appointment outside of my 6 week pp appointment (I think because I had dissolvable stitches?). I don't remember being officially cleared. I started taking walks before my pp appointment. I didn't do a lot of hard exercise for a while though. </p> <p>3. My scar still bothers me 3 years later (although right now I'm currently 30 weeks pregnant, so I think that's part of it). It's very sensitive and can occasionally hurt. I still can feel some areas where the stitches were due to scar tissue I think. But my cousins that have had CS haven't had any issues, so I think it depends on the person. I've been told some people just have more discomfort. I was told I could get steroid injections to the scar if I wanted, but I never did it. It never bothered me enough to go into a dermatologist, etc. My scar doesn't look very bad though. I think having dissolvable stitches helped with the look of it. I don't really care because I wouldn't wear bikinis anyways and the only person who would really see it is my husband and he could care less! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721404 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 09:06:27 +0000 Mrs. Blue 2721404@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1) What tips/tricks/products aided in your recovery? Anything I should stock up on now?</p> <p>I only recently realized that not all hospitals provide the stomach binder thing, so definitely check with your hospital and if not, order one to take with you. It gives you so much support and makes everything feel more like it's where it should be and hurts less.<br /> This looks kind of similar to what they gave me at the hospital, except it only had one piece to velcro over.</p> <p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000WFR34O?tag=mypostpartum-20&#038;th=1" rel="nofollow">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000WFR34O?tag=mypostpartum-20&#038;th=1</a></p> <p>My other tips are: Don't kill yourself trying to do everything; remember you just had major surgery. BUT, though this may sound contradictory from what I just said, DO get up and start walking as soon as they will let you. Neither of my c-sections have been bad, but I think the fact that I was up asap and moving helped immensely. I am prone to doing too much, so that's where I have to watch myself, but definitely get up and move around even when it hurts. It really will help you get better faster.</p> <p>2) When did you get cleared for exercise? And when did you feel up to exercise again?</p> <p>I think around 6 weeks they said I could start doing whatever I felt like, but to just start slow and listen to your body. </p> <p>3) Any tips for managing the scar and helping it heal/fade nicely? </p> <p>I haven't done anything at all for managing the look of the scar, but mine (from two c-sections, one over the other, isn't red or raised. I think the raised part probably has more to do with how skilled your surgeon is at closing you, but there may be other factors. The scar is definitely red for a while, but mine have faded fine. Also, it's right where the top of a lot of underwear/bikini bottoms hit, so other than when you're totally naked, I don't think it's really in that notable of a place, unlike the old days when they did them down the middle of your stomach. </p> <p>There is an awesome thread that a bunch of us weighed in on answering lots of specific questions a long time ago, but I always try to link to it because I wish I had a thread like this to look at before my first c-section:<br /> <a href="http://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section" rel="nofollow">http://boards.hellobee.com/topic/questions-about-cesarean-section</a> </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721387 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 08:49:27 +0000 mrskansas 2721387@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>1) What tips/tricks/products aided in your recovery? Anything I should stock up on now?<br /> The only thing I really recommend is the belt type thing they give you in the hospital to hold everything in. It helped me feel like everything wasn't going to just fall out.</p> <p>2) When did you get cleared for exercise? And when did you feel up to exercise again?<br /> I was cleared for exercise after 6 weeks but I was walking at least a mile a day 5 days post operation.</p> <p>3) Any tips for managing the scar and helping it heal/fade nicely?<br /> I think this depends on the person. The area around my incision was numb for a few months after but I don't think there's anything you can do about that. It's been 2 years and it's still pink and a little raised, but it is so low that even if I'm wearing a skimpy bikini you can't see it. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/preparing-for-c-section-recovery#post-2721385 Fri, 07 Apr 2017 08:45:39 +0000 JennyPenny 2721385@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>My DS1 was an uncomplicated vaginal delivery and I'd been expecting/preparing for the same with DS2 due in 2 weeks. Well, surprise, stubborn guy is breech and I have a scheduled c-section coming up. I'm definitely a planner and having lots of information and expectations helps me to handle things well so I feel like I just need to prepare for this c-section the same way I had prepared for a vaginal delivery. So I've got some questions for the ladies who've been through it:</p> <p>1) What tips/tricks/products aided in your recovery? Anything I should stock up on now?</p> <p>2) When did you get cleared for exercise? And when did you feel up to exercise again? </p> <p>3) Any tips for managing the scar and helping it heal/fade nicely? My coworker says hers is still painful and ugly 12 years later and if there's a chance of avoiding that I'd love to.</p> <p>ETA 4) When were you able to eat after? I have to fast from midnight beforehand and its scheduled at 1:30pm. I suspect I'll be ravenous! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/manual-version-to-turn-transverse-baby#post-2718578 Thu, 30 Mar 2017 18:24:22 +0000 Iced Tea 2718578@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>The success rate varies widely by provider. I would totally do it with a very experienced provider. The most popular one in our area has about an 80% success rate and rarely leads to emergency c-sections. Experience matters! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/manual-version-to-turn-transverse-baby#post-2718570 Thu, 30 Mar 2017 17:56:08 +0000 ocean81 2718570@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>My daughter flipped somewhere between 38 and 39 weeks. My options were ECV or csection... I declined the ECV and I'm glad I did as the cord was wrapped around her twice so it probably would have ended in an emergency csection. Good luck making the decision, it was definitely a hard one for me (but happy I declined in the end) </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/manual-version-to-turn-transverse-baby#post-2718544 Thu, 30 Mar 2017 15:30:03 +0000 Beth24 2718544@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Had one done at 37 weeks for my frank breech baby. I tried about 2 weeks of nonstop spinning babies, moxibustion, and chiropractor appointments and none of them worked (although I do think they helped big time!) Went in for the ECV super scared that it would end up in an emergency c section and then even more freaked out when the anesthesiologist came in pushing an epidural (there was no mention of that in my doctors office). I skipped the epidural so they performed the ECV in the triage room. Took about 2 minutes and baby girl was flipped! I'm now 40 weeks pregnant and she's still head down. I did wear a belly binder for about 3 days after because I was terrified she would flip back. Overall it's a pretty intense thing to go through but I'm so glad I did it. This is my second pregnancy and I've heard there's a better success rate so I'm not sure I would've done it if it was my first baby. It was uncomfortable but not painful. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/manual-version-to-turn-transverse-baby#post-2718519 Thu, 30 Mar 2017 15:03:31 +0000 Mrs. Microscope 2718519@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>DD wasn't breech, but my obs told me how they deal with it. They generally don't do the ecv, due to the risks, the pain, and the 30% success rate. One of my obs Os a licensed acupuncturist, and she has a close to 60% success rate using just that, without the ecv risks. Maybe try that first? Good luck! </p>