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Post-Surgery Care
Care After Cesarean Section (C-Section)
A C-section is major surgery and the start of motherhood at the same time. Gentle care helps you heal well while you enjoy your baby.
Wound Care
- Keep the scar clean and dry. Shower after 24–48 hours and pat (don't rub) dry.
- Wear loose, high-waist clothes so they don't press on the scar.
- Support the wound with a pillow when you cough, laugh or feed.
Movement, Pain & Diet
- Take pain relief as prescribed and start walking within a day to prevent clots and gas.
- To get up, roll onto your side first, then push up — this protects the wound.
- Eat a high-protein, iron- and fibre-rich diet with plenty of water — it aids healing, milk supply and bowels.
Feeding, Rest & Emotions
- Feed in comfortable positions (side-lying or football hold) to avoid pressure on the wound.
- Rest when the baby sleeps and accept help. Avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby for 6 weeks.
- Mood swings or 'baby blues' are common — talk to family and to us if sadness lingers.
When to Call Your Doctor
- Fever, or a wound that is red, leaking pus or opening up.
- Heavy or foul-smelling vaginal bleeding (soaking a pad within an hour).
- Severe tummy pain, or a painful, swollen calf, or breathlessness.
- Persistent sadness, inability to care for yourself or baby, or any thoughts of self-harm.
By Dr. Neha Singhania, Gynecologist – Navi Mumbai · This leaflet is for general information and does not replace personal medical advice.