7 C-section Recovery Tips

Whether you planned for a cesarean birth or it came as a surprise, recovering from surgery while caring for a newborn can feel like a lot. The good news? With the right strategies, you can make the healing process more comfortable. Here are some practical, evidence-based tips to help you feel your best as you recover.

1. Move Gently, But Move

It might feel counterintuitive after major surgery, but gentle movement is essential for recovery. Getting up and walking short distances (even just to the bathroom and back) helps prevent blood clots, supports digestion, and promotes circulation.

How to do it safely:

✔ Start with short, slow walks around your home.

✔ Use your arms to support yourself when standing up from a chair or bed.

✔ Avoid heavy lifting—stick to lifting only your baby until your provider clears you.

2. Support Your Incision When Laughing, Coughing, or Sneezing

Coughing, laughing, or even getting up can put strain on your incision. A small pillow can be a lifesaver!

How to do it:

✔ Keep a pillow nearby and gently press it against your abdomen when you cough, sneeze, or laugh.

✔ When getting out of bed, roll to your side first, then push up with your arms instead of sitting straight up.

3. Stay Hydrated & Eat Fiber-Rich Foods

Constipation is a common and frustrating part of C-section recovery, especially due to pain medications and limited movement. Staying hydrated and eating fiber-rich foods can make a huge difference.

How to do it:

✔ Drink plenty of water throughout the day (staying hydrated is key!)

✔ Eat fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans.

✔ Take a stool softener (your doctor may recommend one).

✔ Avoid straining during bowel movements—if needed, use a footstool to elevate your knees in a more natural position.

4. Choose Comfortable Clothing

Your incision area will be tender, so what you wear matters. Tight waistbands or rough fabric can cause discomfort and irritation.

What to wear instead:

✔ High-waisted underwear that sits above your incision. Many postpartum or C-section underwear brands offer soft, supportive options.

✔ Loose, breathable clothing like flowy dresses, high-waisted leggings, or soft pajama pants.

✔ If wearing compression leggings, choose light support to avoid too much pressure on your abdomen.

5. Take Pain Management Seriously

Recovering from a C-section means healing from both pregnancy and major surgery, which takes time and care. Managing pain properly isn’t just about comfort—it helps you stay mobile, get the rest you need, and focus on bonding with your baby.

Why pain management matters:

✔ Taking prescribed pain medication as directed in the first few days can help you stay ahead of the pain, making it easier to move, rest, and heal.

✔ Allowing yourself to stay comfortable means you can be more present with your baby instead of struggling through unnecessary pain.

✔ Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help once you’re ready to taper off stronger medications—talk to your provider about what’s best for you.

✔ A warm heating pad (on low) can ease back pain or afterpains, while ice packs (wrapped in a cloth) can help reduce incision swelling.

C-section recovery is tough, but you don’t have to “tough it out.” Prioritizing your healing will help you feel stronger, sooner—so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your baby.

6. Prioritize Rest—Even When It Feels Impossible

C-section recovery takes time, so listen to your body and don’t push yourself too hard.

How to make rest easier:

✔ Set up a cozy “recovery zone” with your essentials—water, snacks, pillows, diapers, wipes—so you don’t have to get up constantly.

✔ If possible, accept help from friends, family, or a postpartum doula.

✔ Take the pressure off "sleeping when the baby sleeps", and instead focus on resting (maybe watching a favorite tv show or reading for pleasure)

7. Monitor Your Incision & Know When to Call Your Provider

Your incision should heal gradually, but keep an eye out for signs of infection or complications.

Call your doctor if you experience:

❌ Increased redness, swelling, or warmth around the incision.

❌ Any pus or foul-smelling discharge.

❌ A fever over 100.4°F (38°C).

❌ Severe pain that isn’t improving with medication.

Keeping your incision clean and dry will help prevent issues. Pat it dry after showers, and avoid soaking in tubs until cleared by your doctor.

Recovering from a C-section is a process, but taking small steps each day will help you regain strength. Be patient with yourself, prioritize rest and nourishment, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support.