When can you drive after c-section?

If you’ve just had a c-section, then you’ve likely been instructed to rest lots and told not to drive. In this blog, we’re answering the question, when can you drive after a c-section?

This blog includes: 

• Recovering from a c-section
• Caring for your c-section wound
• When can you drive after c-section?
• Why can’t I drive after a c-section?
• Tips for driving again after a c-section

A caesarean section is a major operation that takes around six weeks to heal. Some women may notice healing before this time, and others may have to wait longer. After your c-section, you may be required to stay in hospital for a few days. Most are able to go home after around 1 – 2 days, but it may be longer for others.

Before leaving the hospital, the healthcare professionals should give you a list of things you’ll need to avoid after a c-section.

When you arrive at home, you should make sure that you relax and take it easy. Now is the perfect time to accept help from loved ones.

Recovering from a c-section

Recovering from a caesarean birth takes time, and you have to be patient with yourself. Six weeks after your c-section, you’ll be invited to meet with a doctor. The doctor will take a look at your scar and assess your overall healing process. Depending on this, they may tell you that you can continue with your usual activities.

It can be disheartening if you’re told that your scar is not ready for normal tasks yet, but don’t be disappointed. Your doctor will usually invite you back for another check-up to see how things are getting on.

You will need to wait before driving again. You should only begin driving after a c-section when your doctor advises you to. This is when they believe you can drive safely.

You’ll also be visited by a health visitor for a while who will check that you and your baby are doing well. Some women also experience some vaginal bleeding after c-sections; you can use sanitary towels for this. Avoid tampons as they can increase the risk of infection.

Here are some tips for the first few weeks when recovering from a caesarean section.

Take time for yourself

Of course, this can be tricky after you have a baby, but it’s very important. You might choose to read a book or sit out in the sunshine. Whatever you choose, make sure you feel relaxed. Being a new parent is challenging, and a little bit of time to breathe can be so good for you.

Regardless of your delivery process, your body goes through a lot during pregnancy and labour. A caesarean birth, in particular, requires a lot of support from others.

Listen to your doctor’s advice

Your doctor knows how to assess your wound’s healing, so it’s best to listen to their advice. They’ll likely tell you that you can do some gentle exercise, which generally means walking.

In the beginning, you should avoid walking too fast or for too long. You should also avoid incline walks when you’re recovering. Over time, as your doctor advises, you may be able to increase your walking distance and take up other gentle activities. It is important to keep moving to reduce the risk of blood clots, so gentle walks are a great idea.

Getting outside is a fantastic way to bond with your baby, and it can really help them to learn new things. As they get older, it’ll play a key role in their development. Being around other children can also really help your baby.

Eat a balanced diet

Eating a balanced diet helps you to stay healthy and fight off infections. You don’t want to be picking up any illnesses after having a c-section. A balanced diet means eating from various food groups and doesn’t mean you have to cut out a particular food. Instead, eat things in moderation.

Caring for your c-section wound

You might find it easier to ask a loved one to check your wound for you during recovery. It should be checked regularly for any signs of infection.

You may experience some discomfort, and the hospital may have prescribed you some pain relief for that. Make sure the medication is safe for breastfeeding if you are feeding that way.

The general advice is to:

• Wear loose clothing to avoid feeling uncomfortable
• Check for signs of infection around the scar
• Take suitable pain relief when needed
• Clean the wound daily – make sure it is dried properly afterwards
• Do not lift anything heavier than your baby
• Avoid heavy housework and bending after a c-section

Your midwife should provide you with information on signs to look out for after a c-section. If you notice a change in anything during your c-section recovery, it’s best to seek medical advice.

When can you drive after c-section?

You should avoid driving while you are still recovering from your c-section. You should not drive until at least six weeks have passed and you’ve had confirmation from your doctor.

Your doctor may advise that you continue not driving for longer than six weeks – it all depends on how your scar is healing. You may also be advised to contact your car insurance company after a c-section to establish their policy for driving after a c-section.

It’s very important that you do not drive before your doctor has advised you to. It’s not safe, and you could find yourself in trouble.

Why can’t I drive after a c-section?

You can’t drive straight after a c-section for a few reasons. The main reason is that it could cause pain. If you have to do an emergency stop or move out of the way of something, you may find your body jerks. This could cause discomfort in the scar area, which is why you’re told to rest and take things easy.

Another reason is any tiredness you’re feeling – which is likely with a newborn. When driving, you’re expected to maintain high levels of control and complete actions smoothly and safely. If you’re over-tired, you may not be able to do this to the best of your ability.

You’re told to wait before driving for your safety, your baby’s safety and other people’s too. You should always follow the advice of your doctor on this.

Most insurance companies will require written proof from your doctor to say that it’s safe for you to drive. After they receive evidence, you’ll likely be insured to drive again. You may also need to get in touch with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) regarding any driving restrictions. Read our blog to find out more about driving after giving birth.

Tips for driving again after a c-section

• Always wait until your doctor has said you can drive (usually around six weeks)
• Check that it’s safe to drive on any medication you’re taking
• Ensure that you feel comfortable driving in a sitting position and can change gears safely etc.
• Check that you can comfortably look in blind spots from behind the wheel
• Ensure that your seat belt fastens correctly and doesn’t cause discomfort
• Consider shorter, lower-speed journeys to begin with
• Take another adult with you who can sit in the back with your newborn
• Stop driving immediately if you notice pain or discomfort, and then seek medical advice

Your first journey with a newborn might feel a little bit nerve-wracking. Don’t worry – that’s why it’s a good idea to have someone with you and to follow those helpful tips.

You should always wait until you’ve had a post-natal checkup with your doctor before driving again. Otherwise, you may find yourself driving while not appropriately insured, which can have serious consequences. It’s your responsibility to ensure that the correct policy is in place for you after this major surgery.

We hope this blog has been useful and answered the question, when can I drive again after a c-section? Don’t forget to always follow your doctor’s advice on these things, they will assess you properly so you can be safe.