MemorialCare - Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care

GETTING OUT OF BED

When you first get out of bed, slowly roll to your side and use your top arm to push yourself up. Sit on the side of the bed for a minute before you get up to make sure you’re not dizzy. Place a pillow over your incision when you cough or move around in bed. If you have stairs at home, try to limit the number of times you walk up and down to only a few times a day.

Lie on back, pillow over belly

MOVING AROUND After a cesarean birth, you can expect to have some abdominal pain when you get up and move around, especially in the first hours and days. The sooner you start moving, the faster you will begin to heal and the better you will feel. Activity can also help improve bowel function and lower the risk of blood clots and pneumonia. In the hospital Always ask for help before getting up until your care team feels you can manage safely on your own. When you’re in bed, you may be encouraged to keep wearing the sequential compression devices (massaging sleeves) that were placed on your legs before surgery. Massaging sleeves help prevent blood clots and improve blood circulation.

Slide knees up one at a time

Lift bottom and move to edge of bed

DAILY ACTIVITY GOALS

• Walk around your room

First 24 hours after surgery

• Sit in the chair

• Walk in the hall several times

Next day and until you go home

• Eat your meals in the chair

Roll onto your side

At home You should be able to do most of your regular activities in about 4 to 8 weeks after cesarean birth. Until that time, it’s important to follow these recommended movement guidelines and restrictions:

DO NOT • Lift anything heavier than your baby

AT SAME TIME: Push up on one elbow while pushing down with other hand

• Do any kind of sit-ups or heavy housecleaning • Jog, exercise, or do anything that makes you breathe hard, strain muscles • Drive a car for at least 2 weeks • Drive if taking narcotic pain medicine or you feel weak or unsafe

DO

Swing bent legs over side, and you’re done!

• Take short walks to increase strength and stamina • Slowly increase your stamina to do light housework • Understand that you will tire easily

• Listen to your body and care for yourself • Wear your seat belt when you ride in a car

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Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care