Holistic Guide to C-Section: Preparing and Healing
Understanding a C-Section
A Cesarean section, commonly known as a C-section, is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus. While this procedure is relatively common, understanding the holistic approach to preparing for and recovering from a C-section can help ensure a smoother experience.
It is essential to discuss with your healthcare provider the reasons a C-section might be recommended and any potential risks involved. Being informed empowers you to make the best decisions for you and your baby.
Preparing for a C-Section
What to Pack
- Headphones and a good playlist or podcast: you are typically allowed to bring headphones into the OR with you. Plan ahead and have a good playlist or meditation to listen to at the time of the procedure if that's helpful.
- Grounding Object: bring something heavy like a rock or crystal you can hold to help you ground in the moment.
- Essential oils or flower essences: it can be nice to have a little room spray with a relaxing essential oil like lavender.
- Loose fitted clothing: you will have a fresh incision on your abdomen so be sure to bring a loose dress or jumpsuit that will be comfortable.
- Depends: yes adult diapers. You will be glad you have them. They fit comfortable over your incision and are much easier than dealing with a pad or the weird hospital underwear they give you.
- Healing Salve or Lotion: it can be nice to have an herbal salve to rub on your belly both pre and post-op. Follow your doctor's instructions and do not place directly on the incision.
- Lip Balm: your lips will be chapped after surgery.
- Abdominal binder: they may provide one for you but you may also want to look into a waist trainer that's a little easier to put on by yourself. Ask you medical team when it's safe to use this.
- Snacks: bring some healthy snacks and a couple special treats for yourself. You can't eat before the procedure but you will be hungry afterwards and hospital food is terrible.
- Herbal tea: bring a nice bag of tea to have the morning after you deliver.
Prior to Surgery
Make sure you talk to your medical team about what to expect. Communicate your needs directly. You can request a clear or opaque curtain depending on your preference of how much you would like to see. You can typically bring 1 support person. Discuss your plan with that support person ahead of time. Communicate what's helpful for you. People often assume you'd like distraction and more information but if that's not helpful you can ask them to not talk to you during the procedure if you like to retreat into your own world. Make it your own and advocate for yourself.
Post-Surgery Recovery
Physical Healing
The first 6 weeks will really be about getting as much rest as you can while taking care of a newborn. Try not to do too much, let your community support you and get as much rest as possible. You may want to arrange meals ahead of time. Enlist the support of family and friends to help with other children.
Emotional Well-being
The postpartum period can be emotionally challenging. Make sure you get the support you need. If you take mental health medications make sure you continue them post-partum and have frequent check-ins with your doctor. If you don't typically take mental health medication but notice you are feeling down, you can always do a consultation to see what would be helpful. If you have a therapist make sure you're meeting with them regularly, if you don't, consider getting one. At Betula Mental Health, we can help you navigate mental health resources and find what's right for you.
Nutritional Support for Recovery
Nourishing your body with the right foods can significantly impact your recovery. Focus on a diet rich in proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins. Hydration is equally important, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Proteins: Essential for tissue repair and healing.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants to boost immunity.
- Whole Grains: Provide energy and aid digestion.
Consult with a nutritionist if you need personalized dietary advice tailored to support your recovery journey.
Recover after 6 weeks
At 6 weeks you are often cleared from a surgical perspective. Please note that it will still take a year to fully recovery from both surgery and childbirth. Be gentle with yourself and your body. It will take time.
- Start to walk regularly
- Find a good core program - I really like https://restoreyourcore.com/
- Keep up with your nutrition and hydration
- Continue to support your mental health
Your journey is far from over at 6 weeks. Do not let your guard down and do what you need to do to restore your health. Both surgery and childbirth take a large toll on your body so get the rest and recovery you need to feel like youself again.
Locations
At Betula Mental Health our services are all online but we are licensed in both Illinois and Texas. Dr. Craig attended both undergrad and medical school at Texas A&M and has been practicing in the city of Chicago for 7 years now. If we can support you in this journey please book an intake session!