Here I’ll be sharing how to recover naturally after a c-section birth, what is expected after a c-section (caesarean section) birth and natural remedies to use that will help support recovery during postpartum.
Before we dive into what is expected after a c-section and how to support recovery naturally, let’s look at some worldwide facts.
C-section section births have become increasingly common worldwide, with over a 50% occurrence rate in countries like the Dominican Republic, Egypt, Turkey and Brazil.
The World Health Organisation considers the ideal rate for c-sections to be between 10-15%. However, as evidenced above, many nations have higher rates than 10-15%. And while c-sections can be life saving in many cases, studies have shown that when c-section rates rise toward 10% across a population, the number of maternal and infant deaths decrease. However, there is no evidence that when rates go over 10%, mortality rates improve (source).
C-sections can increase the risk of infection, blood loss, blood clots in legs, organs or lungs, injury to bowel or bladder, reaction to anesthesia or medications used and birth trauma.
Many women feel guilt or disappointment to their caesarean birth. However, c-sections rarely occur as a result of inadequacy related to the mother’s body. This is why sensitivity toward the mother and her feelings is of the utmost importance.
Topics to be covered
- Biomedical vs Humanised Models of Birth
- What to expect after a c-section
- Considerations after a c-section
- Natural remedies to support recovery
Biomedical vs Humanised Models of Birth
Due to the sensitive nature of caesarean section births and with some women feeling the loss of control due to their experience with one, I wanted to shed light on some history of our western medical field.
In the 20th century, with technology advancements in obstetric field, this changed the childbirth model of care to a biomedical model of care. This meant that giving birth was seen as a medical procedure rather than a rite of passage for many women worldwide.
More medical procedures took place, such as electronic foetal monitoring, epidural analgesia, amniotomy, induced labour, episiotomy and elective c-section birth deliveries.
Much of these interventions meant that hospital staff viewed mothers as patients, causing the woman to lose more control and autonomy. (Study).
In the year 2000 at the International Conference of Humanisation, the term ‘humanisation’ was conceptualised. This meant that labour and birth was now deemed a humanised experience, given their important nature to a woman and her family’s lives.
A humanised birth is the polar opposite to a biomedical birth, as it places the mother at the centre. It gives her control and respect and considers her values, beliefs and preferences during the birthing process. (Study).
Sadly, there are still many birthing mothers who feel that they were not at the centre of their birthing process. Let’s continue to advocate for a more humanised model of care. I am very passionate about this, given I have birthed three times thus far and have been the victim of feeling unseen and unheard during my births.
What to expect after a c-section
I haven’t personally experienced a c-section, however I have learnt what to expect through my studies as a pregnancy/postpartum Nutrition Consultant and conversations with women who have experienced one.
Here are some things to expect after a c-section:
- You may be groggy and nauseated right after your surgery (which can last up to 48 hours).
- You may get itchy (especially those who received narcotics in their epidural or spinal).
- You may find breastfeeding challenging at first (due to the pain from the incision).
- You may be numb and sore at the incision area.
- You may still have lochia (bleeding) for up to six weeks.
- You may experience gas pain, bloating and edema.
This is not to instill fear, but to prepare you for when the time comes.
Considerations after a c-section birth
If you give birth via c-section, it is important to have nutrient-dense meals prepared to support healing and recovery (check out 20 Best Foods to Eat for Postpartum). And if you choose to breastfeed, having some extra breastfeeding support, whether via a Lactation Consultant or extra support from a Midwife.
Women who give birth via c-section have higher rates of breastfeeding difficulty and early breastfeeding cessation (study).
If you choose to breastfeed, here are some ways to support your breastfeeding journey:
- Seek support from a Lactation Consultant
- Breastfeed while lying down sideways or using the football hold to avoid pressure on the incision
- Seek help from family and friends with daily tasks like house work and cooking, so you can focus on your recovery and breastfeeding
- Seek guidance from a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist who specialises in c-section scar mobilisation.
- Take a high potency probiotic to support beneficial bacteria in breastmilk after the administration of antibiotics (purchase probiotic supplement).
- Consume more liquids (labour aid, herbal tea, bone broth) to reduce the likelihood of edema associated with c-sections, flushing medications from the body, reducing the risk of constipation and supporting milk supply.
Natural Remedies to Support Recovery
These remedies have been proven to help support and promote healing after a c-section birth.
Homeopathic remedies
Bach Rescue Remedy (to relieve muscles and promote relaxation)
Homeopathic arnica (has been reported to promote healing from surgery and helps with less bruising and less need for medication (study)). Dose: 2 pilules every 2 hours for first 6 doses, then 4 times daily for up to 5 days. (Herbal arnica not to be used).
Traditionally used topical herbs
When to apply: once your sutures or staples have been removed and the surgeon has approved the application of the below oils/creams.
Calendula (has anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties).
St John’s Wort oil (can support c-section wound healing and minimise the formation of a scar).
Sea Buckthorn oil (strong antioxidant that supports wound healing, reduces scars, improves skin elasticity and has a regenerative effect).
More from the blog
How to naturally treat Group B Streptococcus in Pregnancy
The tastiest chocolate mineral milk recipe
Healthy and delicious nut-free apple crumble
Are you having a c-section birth? What are your thoughts and feelings as you prepare for it?
Leave a Reply