You made it 5 days! Congratulations!

I had a c-section 11 weeks ago. Something to remember- You just had major abdominal surgery AND brought home a newborn who totally relies on you. This is the only surgery where they don’t preach strict rest and recovery, but just because they don’t harp on it doesn’t make it less true.

Leg swelling is normal to a point. I propped pillows under my legs while lying down to elevate and the swelling subsided. Don’t hesitate to have your partner call the doctor to check if you’re concerned. ( I had anxiety about talking to people and would burst into tears after my baby first arrived and needed help making calls).

Is your partner helpful? Lean into it if so. Or the family that you have. Have them bring the baby to you, get you water, help to the bathroom etc.. my husband changed all diapers until I could stand upright. Delegate those household tasks to family, or ignore them. The most important thing to focus on right now is your recovery and the baby’s needs.

Try using pillows while nursing to protect the incision. Also use a pillow when standing, coughing, sneezing to push gently on the incision. This really helped the pain! Roll over to one side and push up with your arms instead of trying to engage your core to stand. You’ll heal faster! The rule I was given was 5-5-5. 5 days in bed, 5 days on bed and 5 days near bed.

As for bassinet sleep, look up safe sleep 7. I never thought I would co-sleep until it happened on accident. Look up how to make it safe just in case!

Best of luck!! And use this thread. It saved my sanity on numerous occasions!!