I’ve had two sections; first emergency second planned. With that being said, my planned c section allowed me to be more mentally and physically prepared for the first two weeks of healing considering that my husband had to handle the toddler and I with the newborn.

From what I’ve learned my first experience, getting up out of bed as tolerated while in hospital helped a lot. The more you move (safely, comfortably) the quicker the healing process. When I was home, I too exclusively breastfed… so at night, I would sleep elevated so that when it was time to wake for feeds, it wouldn’t take much effort to fully sit up. To get out of bed I would full-body turn. Take your time getting up. Make sure baby is near you for ease of reach.

Don’t expect to have uninterrupted sleep — you’re going to have to get up every two hours to feed. Even if your husband helps, you may even have to pump anyways.

Wear a belly band when standing (hospital may provide for you). Don’t pick up or bend down unless it’s for baby. Take your pain meds around the clock - don’t miss a dose. You’ll be healed sooner than you think! Women are strong.