When can I start bending after a c-section?

Congratulations on the birth of your baby – we’re sure you’re loving getting to know them! After birth, it can take some time for you to get back to normal. In this blog, we’re answering the question, when can I start bending after a c-section?

This blog includes: 

• C-section delivery
• Best sitting position after a c-section
• When can I start bending after a c-section?
• What happens if you bend after a c-section?
• When can we start doing exercise after a c-section?
• Sleeping positions to avoid after c-section
• Best tips for c-section recovery
• What can I do instead of bending after a c-section?

C-section delivery

A c-section delivery is major surgery, so giving your body time to heal is important.

Perhaps you’ve already had your c-section, or maybe you’re waiting for one, so you may want to know a little more about them.

C-sections involve a cut being made across the abdomen to deliver your baby safely. In most cases, the incision is made horizontally, but it can occasionally be made vertically. It all depends on the safest option for you and your baby.

During the procedure, you’ll be given an anaesthetic, which allows you to remain awake and experience the birth of your baby. In some cases, a general anaesthetic may be used – this is only in emergencies.

After the cesarean delivery

After the birth of your baby, the area is stitched up and left to heal, which can take some time. A healthcare professional will advise you on caring for your c-section scar, and you’ll have regular checkups with a doctor.

The doctor will assess the scar and its healing process during your medical appointments. If they deem it safe, you will be approved to do more everyday tasks again. For example, most women are told they can drive again six weeks after the major surgery. 

Don’t be disheartened if you are told not to. It’s the best option for you and will help to keep you safe.

You may be advised on the level of exercise you can complete and other daily tasks you should or shouldn’t be doing.

Best sitting position after a c-section

You might be thinking, when can I sit on the floor after a c-section? Can I sit cross-legged after a c-section? We’re going to let you know the best sitting position after a c-section.

The best way to sit after a c-section is upright with support. This support may come from the back of a chair or even from pillows if that feels more comfortable.

After giving birth, you may notice that you have aches in places where you didn’t previously. Some of these aches may be a result of posture changes. By maintaining good posture after a cesarean birth, you may find that some aches are alleviated. Read about knee pain postpartum.

Some women find sitting with their knees up in front of them more comfortable. This can alleviate some discomfort in the lower back.

When can I start bending after a c-section?

Not being able to bend down can be a big change, but it’s definitely something you need to abide by. You should avoid bending too soon after a c-section as it could cause issues with your scar.

You should wait until your six-week check-up with your doctor before trying anything new. They will carefully assess your scar and see when you’re ready for things again. Some women find they can bend down again between six and eight weeks post-surgery.

When you try bending down, you should ensure that you do so slowly. Moving too quickly may cause pain and discomfort.

Gas pain after a C-section is also common, so it would be beneficial to find some light exercises to relieve gas.

It’s best to wait and see what your doctor says before you do anything that you’ve been told to avoid after your cesarean section. These may include strenuous activities such as:

• Avoiding twisting movements
• Avoiding situps
• Avoiding lifting anything heavier than your baby
• Driving

Always follow your doctor’s advice during a c-section recovery, as partaking in these activities could cause harm to you. The shortest c-section recovery time is six weeks, so avoid bending, driving and heavy lifting before this time.

What happens if you bend after a c-section?

Bending too soon after a c-section could cause you to feel dizzy or even experience pain around your wound. You’re told to avoid anything that could cause the incision damage while it takes time to heal. Following advice will help the body recover and heal properly – it may also help you to avoid complications with your c-section incision.

If you notice bleeding from the wound, or severe pain, seek medical advice. Anyone experiencing pain, dizziness, fever or constipation will need checking over.

When can we start doing exercise after a c-section?

Your doctor will let you know when it’s suitable for you to start exercising again after a c-section. However, you can always go for short walks when you leave the hospital. A healthcare provider will advise you not to go far and to avoid walking on an incline – until your body gets used to moving again.

Walking is a great way to exercise and benefits your mental well-being too! You may want to look for some walking groups for new parents so you can meet new people too.

Sleeping positions to avoid after c-section

Sleeping during pregnancy is often not the easiest thing to do. Your body is changing a lot, and certain positions are best avoided. This is the same when recovering from a c-section.

You should avoid sleeping on your front, as you are putting extra pressure on your scar, which could cause discomfort. You may be comfortable lying on your back or side while your body is healing. This will help to avoid putting pressure on the incision site.

Best tips for c-section recovery

Rest

Trying to rest after having a baby can be tricky, and parents are often told to sleep when the baby does. It’s best to rest when you can after a c-section delivery. This might mean sitting down while the baby naps instead of doing jobs.

Keep moving your body – gently

You’ll usually be told to keep moving your body after a c-section to reduce the risk of blood clots. Moving your body gently means you can start walking for short distances. Over time, you can increase the time you walk, but you should wait for advice on this. Don’t complete any strenuous physical activity until you are given the green light.

A healthcare provider may advise you on stretches you can do to build your core muscles and pelvic floor muscles. You’ll be able to build up your pelvic floor exercises as time goes on, and these are very important.

Take time for yourself

Being a new parent is hard, so taking time for yourself is important. This might mean sitting outside in nature, reading a book, meeting with friends, or anything else you enjoy!

Manage any pains

You may find yourself experiencing some discomfort after your surgery, so you need to take it easy. It might be a good idea to keep a diary of how you’re feeling and any pains you have. You can manage pain using medication, but you should always seek advice from healthcare providers first.

Check for signs of infection

It’s very important to check your abdominal incision for signs of infection. These may include:

• Severe pain
• Redness and soreness around the wound
• Swelling around the wound
• Poor-smelling liquid coming from the incision site

You may also experience shortness of breath, severe pain, urine leakages and heavy vaginal bleeding. Always seek advice for any of these symptoms, as you may require medical attention.

Sometimes it’s easier for a partner or family member to check the incision site. They can also help you to keep the incision clean using warm water.

What can I do instead of bending after a c-section?

• Purchase a grabber
• Extend arms
• Try and ensure you have everything you need closeby

So, you’re best to wait until at least six weeks after your major abdominal surgery before you start bending down. When doing so, you must do it slowly and be gentle with yourself. Be prepared that you might be told to wait a little longer.

We hope this blog has answered the question, when can I start bending after a c-section? Don’t forget to take it easy while you’re recovering, and always listen to your doctor’s advice.