Tips

If It Is a Caesarean

What helped me. Not a lesser birth. Still LIFE.

This is my opinion and my experience. Not a medical guide. Your team knows your body. Ask them everything, twice if you need to.

Any way of bringing a baby into the world is LIFE. Caesarean or physiological birth. We are incredible. If they think something is medically better for you and the baby, they should tell you clearly, and with respect. Look for people you feel a connection with.

What actually helped

Small things. The days are long. Kindness is not a luxury.

Epixelle, then dry

For the scar and for stitches

This gel was wonderful on a caesarean scar and on stitches. Wash gently. Rinse. Pat dry with sterile gauze. Do not rub. Follow what your hospital asks you to use as well.

Image source: Epixelle

High-waist underwear

Frida Mom · sits above the scar

Anything that sits on the incision is a fight. High waist, disposable for the first days, then cotton when you can. Ice pads if they feel good to you.

Image source: Frida

A nightgown that does not press

Buttons at the chest · cotton

Soft cotton. Opens for feeding. Does not sit tight on the belly. Petite Siesta nightgowns and pyjamas did this for me. Their baby line is not the point. This is for you.

Image source: Petite Siesta

A pillow against the scar when you cough, laugh, or stand. It sounds small. It is not.
Do not lift more than the baby, if you can help it. Let someone else carry the bag.
Walk a little when they say you may. Slow. The corridor counts.
Keep the scar clean and dry. Air when they allow it. No creams your team has not agreed.
A good person beside you. Someone who can ask the questions when you are tired.

One mother’s recovery, from our home in the UAE. Ask your obstetrician and midwife before you change anything. The hospital bag is next door. GINGI illustrations are original.