Giving birth is a huge accomplishment, and a C-section is no exception. It takes a lot of courage and strength to go through a C-section and the recovery process afterward. There is a lot of preparation and recovery that goes into having a successful C-section — which not a lot of women get through their OBGYN office. If you are a C-section warrior, you know the bravery it takes to go through the procedure and voice your concerns for your postpartum healing.
At One Core Repair, we understand that one six-week follow-up appointment is not enough for many women to fully recover from their C-sections. Not only have they just brought a new life into the world, but they are also coping with major body changes. In today’s post, we will cover what happens to your body after a C-section and how our core strengthening program is inspiring women across the country to take back their postpartum healing journey.
A C-section Is Not The Easy Way Out
First and foremost, it is important to understand that your body has been through a lot. A cesarean section requires an incision in the uterus — an incision through seven layers to be exact! When you experience a C-section, several layers are cut and/or pulled to the side to get to the baby, including skin, subcutaneous tissue, superficial fascia, muscles (external oblique muscle, internal oblique muscle, transversus abdominis muscle), transversalis fascia, preperitoneal adipose and areolar tissue, and peritoneum.
This trauma can cause a lot of discomfort and sometimes pain, depending on the individual. As a result, your abdominal wall, which was already weakened by pregnancy, is now even more weakened.
As the body begins to heal, certain physical changes may occur. The incision site may feel numb or tingly, and there may be some bleeding, drainage, or discoloration around the incision. These effects should gradually improve over time, but if they linger or worsen, contact a doctor.
The abdomen may also feel weak or unstable, and there may be a feeling of heaviness or pulling in the area. This is caused by the weakened abdominal muscles, which are a result of the surgery. It’s important to begin abdominal exercises and stretches soon after the C-section to strengthen the abdominal muscles.
Proper Abdominal Rehabilitation
When your baby is born, you are given many pamphlets, information, and many follow-up visits are scheduled to check up on your baby. But what about mom? Just one six-week postpartum visit is scheduled where the mom is typically cleared to go back to routine exercise.
After a C-section, many mothers experience pain and discomfort well after their procedure date. Common post-C-section symptoms include:
- Pain or discomfort in the abdomen, incision site, or lower back
- Difficulty moving or standing for long periods of time
- Excessive tiredness and fatigue
- Numbness or tingling in the legs
- Difficulty urinating or passing gas
- Constipation
- Swelling or fluid retention in the abdominal area
- Infection of the incision site
- Emotional distress or depression
The most important thing to remember is that your recovery is a process, and it can take time. Take it easy, get plenty of rest, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Begin Your Healing Journey With One Core Repair
At One Core Repair, we understand the physical and emotional struggles that women experience after a C-section. That’s why we offer a range of core strengthening programs and postpartum exercises to help women recover and regain their strength and confidence. Whether you are six weeks postpartum or 26 years postpartum, our team of experts is here to help you every step of the way, providing guidance and support to help you through the recovery process. Become part of our One Core Repair community today!