Post-Cesarean Section Instructions

• Make your first post-partum appointment now for 2 weeks.
• There will be another appointment at approximately six weeks post-operatively. At his time, most of your restrictions will be lifted.
• No douching, tampons, or intercourse.
• No heavy lifting or straining. Do not lift over 20 lbs. After your first post-operative visit, you may do some light housework.
• You may start driving a car two weeks after your surgery.
• You may have vaginal spotting for approximately 4-6 weeks. You may have an odor. If excessive bleeding occurs, more than a heavy period, or soaking more than one pad an hour, contact your doctor. Many women will bleed heavily about 2-3 weeks after delivery, this is common Mini-pads are usually more comfortable: do not use tampons for 2 weeks.
• Showers or baths are fine.
• You may climb stairs, but make the trips worthwhile. Use your own judgment.
• Report any temperature over 100.5F.
• You may receive a prescription for pain pills. Don’t be afraid to use them.
• Use Colace, if necessary to keep stools soft. If you have not had a bowel movement for 1-2 days, take one ounce of Milk of Magnesia.
• Call the office and talk with either the doctor or the nurse if you have any problems or questions.
• Wear a good fitting bra at all times.
• Take vitamin and iron pills if nursing and if blood count is low.