Cesarean Recovery The most important aspect of your recovery from a cesarean is enlisting loving people to support you. Surround yourself at the hospital and at home with people who can mother you. Keep your baby close to you as you recuperate, rest as much as you can, and be patient with yourself. Most women stay in the hospital three to five days, and require several weeks to fully recover from the surgery.
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| If you know in advance that ensuring the safety of you or your baby will require a cesarean birth, remember you are not just having surgery; you are giving birth to your baby. It is still possible to stay connected to your body and baby when giving birth by c-section. You can do this by creating a special ritual on the morning of your baby’s birth, before going to the hospital. Prior to delivery, talk to your baby (or babies) about what is to come, reassuring them all is well and everyone will be fine. Consider sleeping with one of his or her baby blankets against your body the night before your cesarean, so that it smells like you on the morning of your baby’s arrival. Bring it with you to the hospital and have your baby snuggled in it. Ask a friend or family member to take pictures of you, your partner and your baby as he comes into the world. |
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| Remember, your baby will soon be looking for her connection to you, listening for your voice, and seeking the comfort of your familiar smell. Ask for her to be placed on your body after birth or to be brought to you as soon as possible. |
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In the event your baby is brought to ICU after birth, decide in advance who will accompany him there, and who will stay with you. Bonding is possible even if your baby is in an isolette or hooked up to a breathing apparatus. Remember, this is your magical beginning with your baby. Welcome the experience – even if it doesn’t exactly match your ideals. Know you will look back with love and tenderness in years to come. |
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