In hospital

The NHS says most people leave hospital 1 or 2 days after a caesarean. A catheter usually stays in for at least 12 hours, and the wound dressing stays on for at least 24 hours.

Pain relief

Take regular painkillers at home for as long as you need them. The NHS says paracetamol or ibuprofen are usually preferred while breastfeeding, and that aspirin and codeine (including co-codamol) are not usually recommended. Ask your doctor which option suits you.

Looking after the wound

  • Clean and dry the wound gently each day.
  • Wear loose clothing and cotton underwear.
  • Non-dissolvable stitches or staples are usually removed by your midwife after 5 to 7 days.
  • Use period pads, not tampons, for the bleeding.

Moving, driving and lifting

The NHS encourages gentle activity such as a daily walk to lower the risk of blood clots. It says you won’t be able to drive for a few weeks, and to arrange a lift home from hospital. Before you drive again, check your insurance company’s policy, as cover can depend on it. Only start when you feel able to concentrate and move comfortably. Hold off on more strenuous exercise and on lifting anything heavier than your baby until you feel able, which may take about 6 weeks.

When to get help

Contact your midwife or GP straight away if you have:

  • severe pain
  • leaking urine, or pain when you pee
  • heavy vaginal bleeding
  • signs of wound infection: a wound that is redder, more painful or more swollen, or pus or foul-smelling discharge
  • a cough or shortness of breath
  • swelling or pain in your lower leg

If you can’t reach anyone, call NHS 111. Call 999 for sudden, very heavy bleeding, if you feel faint or dizzy, or if you have chest pain or trouble breathing.

Questions people ask

How long does caesarean recovery take?

The NHS says to plan to take things easy for several weeks. Most people leave hospital after 1 or 2 days, and strenuous exercise and heavy lifting may need to wait about 6 weeks.

When can I drive?

The NHS says you won’t be able to drive for a few weeks. Check your insurer’s rules before you start again.

Read next

Sources: NHS: caesarean section recovery; NHS: early days after the birth.

This is general information based on NHS guidance. Every body is different, so speak to your midwife, health visitor or GP if you’re unsure about anything.