During Your Hospital Stay

Over the next few days, you'll keep on recovering as you prepare to go home. Use this time to rest and ask questions. If your hospital offers classes on breastfeeding or newborn care, you might want to attend.

Continuing Your Recovery

As you recover from the cesarean, you will be watched just like any other surgery patient. You can expect the following care:

• Your blood pressure and temperature will be checked, and your blood and urine will be tested.

• Vaginal bleeding will be monitored.

• You'll move from a liquid to a solid diet.

• If your skin incision was closed with staples, they may be taken out now. In some cases, they are removed later during an office visit.

• A sterile bandage may be placed over the incision. Or the incision may be secured with Steri-Strips and left to air-dry. Your health care provider will tell you when you can shower.

You will start a liquid diet and move to solid foods when you are ready.

Checking Baby's Health

A pediatrician (a doctor who specializes in infant and child care) will do a complete exam on your newborn. All babies are checked to rule out any problems, such as a dislocated hip or a heart murmur. Sometimes a hepatitis B vaccination is given. The pediatrician will discuss the results of the exam with you and answer any questions you have. You and your partner will be asked about how you're adjusting to your baby. You may also schedule the baby's first office visit.

Breastfeeding in Comfort

Breastfeeding will be easier if your baby doesn't press against your incision.  Ask for tips from your nurse or a breastfeeding specialist. Also try both of thse techniques:.

The side-lying hold. Lie on your side, tummy to tummy with your baby. The very tip of baby's nose should touch your breast.

The football hold. Place the back of your baby's head in the palm of your hand. Your forearm should support baby's shoulders and spine. Baby's legs should be tucked between your arm and your body.