I’m a two time c-section mom. While my first c-section was unplanned, I used my experience to better prepare for a planned c-section in my second pregnancy. Here’s how I prepared for my recovery. Disclosure: please consult your physician for personalized medical advice. Do not disregard professional medical advice or treatment because of something you have read on The Cabro.
Prepare bed, living area & nursery for support
My first c-section was unplanned and my delivery happened much sooner than we expected. This time around, I made sure all of my essentials were on one floor so I could avoid the stairs. We created small command centers where I could stay seated while healing. It was helpful that these were pre-planned so that I didn’t have to create them while healing.
Create a “house purse” that moves room to room
This brilliant suggestion from one of my followers is one that I couldn’t wait to try. A house purse is a bag that holds everything you need to stay comfortable as you move room to room: lip balm, tissues, lotions, glasses, earphones, bottled water, a Kindle/book, and medications. It also holds anything you may need for the baby: wipes, burp cloth, diapers, or binky. Having everything nearby helped when I couldn’t move around easily. This is an easy way to set yourself up for success as you prepare for a c-section.
Keep a pregnancy pillow close by
As much as I couldn’t wait to stop using my clunky pregnancy pillow, I appreciated having it around for a couple of weeks after my surgery. It helped support me in various positions as I recovered in bed, slept, nursed, or sat up to hold my baby. In addition, having extra pillows nearby, like a neck pillow, was useful. Sometimes the best position to sleep post-surgery was sitting up. As you set up your house to prepare for a c-section, know that pillows provide comfort and support.
Get a cell phone charger with a long cord
As you prepare for a c-section, consider upgrading your cell phone cord to a longer length. I was on my phone a lot – sending texts, taking photos, logging notes, purchasing last minute gear, and so much more. Since I was up around the clock in those early days, my battery ran down quickly from constant usage. A long cord ensured I had access to an outlet no matter where it was located. Check The Cabro Amazon Storefront to see my favorite iPhone cord.
Create an Amazon wish list for two deliveries
I came up with this hack after my unplanned c-section: wait until you’re in recovery before stocking up on supplies. Unfortunately, I didn’t do this and I stockpiled on recovery items that weren’t useful after a c-section. The hospital provides everything a mother needs during her immediate recovery. To save time, and money, create two wish lists – one for a vaginal delivery and one for a c-section. Order what’s needed in postpartum recovery.
If you’ve had a c-section, what would you add to my list?
Check out my other posts for working mothers who are preparing for a baby: