Recovery – Caesarean section - Pregnancy

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You’ll probably be in hospital for 3 or 4 days after a caesarean section, and may need to take things easy for several weeks.

The average stay in hospital after a caesarean is around 3 or 4 days.

You may be able to go home sooner than this if both you and your baby are well.

While in hospital:

you’ll be given painkillers to reduce any discomfort
you’ll have regular close contact with your baby and can start breastfeeding
you’ll be encouraged to get out of bed and move around as soon as possible
you can eat and drink as soon as you feel hungry or thirsty
a thin, flexible tube called a catheter will remain in your bladder for at least 12 hours
your wound will be covered with a dressing for at least 24 hours

When you’re well enough to go home, you’ll need to arrange for someone to give you a lift as you will not be able to drive for a few weeks.

Your midwife should also advise you on how to look after your wound.

You’ll usually be advis...

Recovery – Caesarean section