Before opting for a cesarean section, prepare yourself mentally and give yourself a "shot of confidence." In many reputable hospitals, doctors typically hold a preoperative discussion with mothers, allowing them to choose between vaginal delivery and cesarean section. In reality, doctors often aim to minimize birth risks, which is why most recommend cesarean delivery.In our view, doctors often emphasize potential complications upfront, though the likelihood of unexpected issues in the delivery room remains quite low. Crucially, mothers must have a clear understanding of their physical condition before childbirth. Many mothers, influenced by concerns about the drawbacks of natural birth, opt for cesarean sections for perceived safety. In reality, many cesareans are unnecessary.
The First Postoperative Challenge: Abdominal Compression Every Half Hour
After delivery, mothers are transferred from the operating table to a hospital bed. Before they can catch their breath, doctors and nurses begin applying pressure to their abdomen.This abdominal compression targets the fundus of the uterus. Its purpose is to stimulate uterine contractions and expedite the expulsion of lochia. Cesarean births carry a higher risk of poor uterine contractions and blood accumulation in the uterine cavity, which can impair uterine contraction. In severe cases, this may lead to significant hemorrhage. Compressing the fundus helps expel accumulated blood and monitor contractions. Therefore, abdominal compression is a necessary step for every mother who has undergone a cesarean section.
The pressure is applied just above or below the navel. A sandbag is placed over the incision to minimize bleeding from the abdominal wound. Sometimes, doctors or nurses remove the sandbag to apply pressure. Many mothers describe this moment as extremely painful, with a sudden, suffocating sensation when the sandbag is abruptly lifted.Some mothers also describe how their faces contort with each compression, their hands clutching the bed rails tightly. After each compression, they breathe a sigh of relief.
Post-Surgery Challenge #2: First Urination After Catheter Removal (24 Hours Later)
Twenty-four hours after the C-section, the urinary catheter is removed. Mothers are then encouraged to drink plenty of fluids and ideally pass urine on their own within four hours. This seemingly simple act becomes exceptionally difficult for mothers recovering from a C-section.First, moving her body to get out of bed would tug at the incision, causing pain. Those assisting her had to be extremely careful. Every small shift proved incredibly difficult. After much effort, she finally reached her destination, only to face another awkward situation: squatting for nearly half an hour without success.The reason for not being able to urinate is straightforward: the pain from the abdominal incision makes it too painful to push, leading to difficulty urinating.
Some mothers report that after the catheter is removed following a C-section, they struggle to control their bladder for several days. Urge to urinate causes a stinging pain at the urethral opening, and even at the end of urination, a stinging sensation persists.
The Third Postoperative Challenge: Uterine Contractions Combined with Wound Pain
After a C-section, many mothers experience uterine pain. This discomfort is primarily caused by uterine contractions. The sensation typically lasts for 6 to 8 weeks before gradually subsiding. Some mothers with larger incisions may experience itching as the wound nears healing.The intensity of pain varies. Some mothers report feeling uterine contractions as early as the second night after surgery. How does this pain feel? One mother vividly described it as three times worse than menstrual cramps.
Babies need to feed when hungry, and new mothers naturally cherish their little ones. Even with abdominal pain, you must endure the discomfort to breastfeed your baby.We suggest mothers first lie down, letting the baby feed while lying on top of you, with an adult nearby to assist. Alternatively, sit in a chair with a soft pillow on your lap, placing the baby on the pillow for support. This avoids bending over and aggravating the pain. As a last resort, pumping milk for feeding is an option, though it should be considered a last resort.