Cesarean Section

GENERAL MEASURES

• A hard ridge should form along the incision. As it heals, the ridge will recede gradually.
• Use an electric heating pad, or a warm compress to relieve incisional pain.
• Shower as usual. You may wash the incision gently with mild soap. Resume tub baths after 2-3 weeks.
• Don’t douche unless advised to by the doctor.

MEDICATION

• Prescription pain medication should generally be required only for 2 to 7 days following the procedure.
• You may use nonprescription drugs, such as acetalminophen, for minor pain.

ACTIVITY

• Resume daily activities and work as soon as you are able. Full recovery normally takes about 6 weeks.
• Resume driving once you can operate the vehicle without pain, usually 1 to 3 weeks.
• Avoid sexual intercourse for 4 to 6 weeks or as directed by your doctor.

DIET

No special diet.

NOTIFY OUR OFFICE IF

Any of the following occurs:

• Pain, swelling, redness, drainage, or bleeding increases in the surgical area.
• Bleeding soaks more than 1 pad or tampon each hour.
• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.

Postoperative Care Instructions

Episiotomy

Dilatation and Extraction

Dilatation and Curettage

Vaginal Hysterectomy

Abdominal Hysterectomy