When To Start Walking After C Section? Benefits And Recovery

It is natural for a new mother to be overwhelmed with joy when she holds her new born for the first time in her arms. It is a euphoric moment in her life. However, if she has undergone caesarean section surgery, she has to deal with several aspects during the recovery period.

C section or cesarean section is a surgical procedure of delivering the baby through an incision over the abdomen and uterus. For the first few days after the operation it is essential to know what to do and what not to do for proper healing of surgical wound.

After the surgery, for first twenty four hours the mother is constantly monitored by the medical personnel. It is essential to observe her vital signs like blood pressure, pulse and temperature as they can indicate any unforeseen complication. During these 24 hours, patient is given pain reducing medicines and she is encouraged to walk at least few steps.

Nowadays all gynecologists suggest the patient to walk soon after c section. Although walking within 24 hours after the operation can be too exhaustive and discomforting for the patient, it is essential for healing as well as for overall health of the mother.

Benefits Of Walking After C Section Delivery

There are several benefits of walking soon after the operation. The main reason for early mobilization of patient after cesarean section is to prevent deep vein thrombophlebitis. It can be one of the serious complications after C section surgery. Walking encourages blood circulation and prevents blood clotting in deep veins of leg.

Walking soon after c- section reduces gases accumulated in the abdomen and thus the mother feels more relaxed and comfortable. It also facilitates easy bowel movement. Too much straining during bowel movement can put pressure on sutures. Walking also prevents other complications such as pneumonia.

Usually after c section delivery, hospital stay lasts for 3 to 4 days. During this period the mother is encouraged to walk, at first with assistance than when she gains confidence, she is allowed to walk without anyone’s help. Walking is more comforting for the mother after taking the pain relieving medicines.

Patient should also walk till bathroom for urination. Gradually the period of walking in increased to 20 minutes in first week. After one or two weeks she can walk as she was walking earlier, however she should not overdo it. Early mobilization also helps to lose weight after delivery.

Tips For A Quick Recovery From A C Section

For every mother who has undergone c- section surgery some amount of care is essential for recovery.

  • Mother should rest when she feels tired.
  • She should have adequate 8 hours sleep. Since she has to feed the child at night, she may have disturbed sleep; a few hours nap in afternoon is therefore good for the nursing mother.
  • As discussed earlier, walking is essential as it helps early recovery and healing of wound.
  • Mother should stay away from strenuous activities such as weight lifting, cycling, jogging, at least for first 6 weeks. After that she should consult her physician prior to resuming her activities.
  • Avoid coughing as the pressure on stitches can rip it off. Take medicines to cure cough.
  • Some amount of bleeding is common after c section for few days or week. During this period, the patient should use sanitary pad. She should not douche or use tampons.
  • During the recovery period, she has to eat all nutritious food as it helps to heal the wound as well as to energize the body.