A c-section is like any other major surgery where an incision is done on the abdomen to take the baby out of the womb. The incision runs horizontally across the abdomen and takes some time to heal post the surgery. Some aches and pains post the surgery are inevitable. When I underwent my first c-section and complained about the aches and pains post the surgery my gynaecologist told me that it will subside, but I need to understand that a cut runs deep inside my body. It is not just a superficial cut. Here are 15 mistakes to avoid after a c-section.
It is a cut that runs several tissue layers down to the uterus and so there need to be multiple layers of internal healing to make one feel strong and fine the way you were pre-surgery. But the days following the surgery could be a bit challenging what with catering to the demands of the newborn and nursing the pain at the site of the incision. Painkillers are given to counter the pain; however, there would be times when it gets difficult to deal with it, especially when you want to lie down. Read to know if you can sleep on your back after a c-section.
A dull ache might keep nagging you during the initial days after the surgery and this could make it uncomfortable for you to lie down in peace. You might find it difficult to settle in a comfortable position to sleep. Lying straight on your back might put a strain on the incision while curling up on your sides could make it still ache. The best way to avoid such pains during the initial days after the surgery is by sleeping with pillows propped up to give you enough back support.
How to do it right:
Stack one end of the bed with three to four pillows so make a soft backrest. Lean back on the pillows in a reclining position and keep your legs straight. Tilt your head backwards and rest or sleep for a while. This position will not put any pressure on the incision and help you to sleep pain-free. If you feel there isn't much support for your head and neck, then use a neck pillow for support or prop up with more pillows to make a headrest too. The advantage of sleeping in this position is that you can ask your family member or spouse to pick up the baby when she cries in the middle of the night and nurses her in this position which will be comfortable and easy for you.
Slowly as the incision heals it will become easy for you to lie down on your back and sleep. Even if you can't sleep straight, lying down on your sides will help.
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