Cesarean Birth After Care

The days following the birth of your baby, the postpartum period, can be one of the most challenging times for mothers and families. This perioid can be even more challenging for mothers who have had a cesarean delivery. After any delivery, a mother needs to allow her body to rest and heal. Ideally, this means little or no housework or running after other little ones. The maternal mortality rate is highest in the postpartum period, so special consideration needs to be given to the care of the mother. If you are a single mother or your partner has to return to work shortly after the birth of the child, try to organize a support team prior to the birth of your child to help during the postpartum period. The support team can include family, church members, new mother support groups or a postpartum doula.

 

Take time to understand the limitations of a new mother and the kind of care that might be necessary. Keep in mind that it is normal for a new mother to feel overwhelmed emotionally and physically drained. Open communication with your health care provider and your support team is very important. Let someone know if you are feeling discouraged or weighed down. Don't be afraid to ASK FOR HELP!!

Reasons to Call Your Health Care Provider Immediately:

• Fever of over 100.4° F
• Severe headache that begins right after birth and does not let up in intensity
• Sudden onset of pain in the abdominal area, such as tenderness to touch or burning sensation
• Foul odor from vaginal discharge
• Sudden onset of pain in the incision area that can include a pus discharge
• Swollen, red, painful area in the leg
• Burning urination or blood in the urine
• Appearance of rash or hives
• Extremely heavy bleeding that soaks a maxi pad within an hour, or the passing of large clots
• Sore, red, painful area on the breasts that may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms
• Feelings of anxiety, panic, and/or depression