What Can A New Mom Expect In The Initial Hours Post C-Section Delivery?

Post-delivery timeline The first few hours and days after a C-section delivery are most crucial, because it is a major surgery and the mother's body undergoes several changes. She is getting accustomed to the feeling of motherhood while also feeling vulnerable. There is also a lot of pain post delivery, and all new mothers need rest and clarity on what to expect in this journey. Taking to Instagram, Dr Shalini Verma, an obstetrician and gynecologist listed out a timeline for what usually happens after a C-section delivery.Breastfeeding Breastfeeding usually begins within an hour of giving birth. It is now time to feed your baby and bond with them. A nurse may be assigned to you to help you with the process of breastfeeding, as you may experience pain and numbness from incision and anaesthesia.Recovery room Two hours after delivery, you may head to the recovery room for some rest and pampering, and to monitor your health and that of the baby's. Once you are stable, you will be transferred to your designated room.Rehydration As the effect of anaesthesia wears off, you may want to rehydrate. Rehydration begins six hours after surgery. Each sip of water will take you closer to recovery. According to the doctor, the mother must increase her water intake to help with bowel movements and to avoid 'spinal headaches'.First walk Expect to walk in 8-12 hours of surgery. It may seem daunting and difficult, but you will have support. According to Dr Verma, a little walk around the room will speed up the process of recovery and also decrease the risk of blood clots; it may also help with the movement of bowels. A mother can expect to ambulate 8-12 hours after surgery, and walk six-eight times a day. It is, however, important to ensure that someone is around to help in case of dizziness. Plan these walks after you have taken painkillers.After 24 hours Painkillers are initially administered via an 'epidural catheter' or by 'intravenous line'. After 24 hours, the patient may begin to take oral painkillers. When it comes to diet, the mother may consume water followed by a liquid diet six hours after the delivery. After this, she may start to take a soft diet and return to normal diet by day 2 of delivery.Other key points According to the doctor, most mothers can expect a urinary catheter inserted; it will be removed once they get out of bed. The area around the incision may be sore, numb, or both. Besides painkillers, they may be given antibiotics and blood thinning injections to avoid blood clots.Discharge Expect to be discharged anytime between 48 to 72 hours after delivery, depending on how you feel and if your body has been following the natural process of healing.