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After delivering a new bundle of joy, all mothers need time to recover and heal. And for those who give birth by cesarean delivery, recovery can be a long process.
Here are a few products that can help. These are designed to help you mend, pass the time, and get back on your feet.
It’s important to keep pressure off the site of the incision in the first weeks after your cesarean delivery.
Nursing pillows help support your arms at a higher angle while you hold your baby. They can also make it easier to manage the recommended breast-feeding football hold for mothers who need to protect stitches.
1. Boppy Nursing Pillow and Positioner
Many moms swear by the classic Boppy nursing pillow. You can choose from a variety of covers that come in different patterns and colors. All of them are washable.
Amazon rating: 4.5 stars, $30
2. ERGObaby Natural Curve Nursing Pillow
The ERGObaby pillow is a hit with women who are taller and find that other nursing pillows sit too low.
Amazon rating: 3.5 stars, $70
Don’t pack up your maternity underwear just yet! The accommodating waist on maternity underwear will help protect your incision from chafing in the first few weeks after a cesarean delivery.
3. Motherhood Maternity Bikini Panties
If you don’t already own maternity underwear, Motherhood Maternity is a great place to start. If the bikinis sit too close to your incision, the brand offers a few different styles.
Amazon rating: 4.5 stars, $15
4. UpSpring Baby C-Panty
The C-Panty has a panel to protect your incision. It also uses compression to give comfort and support as you start moving again.
Amazon rating: 3.5 stars, $65
The incision from a cesarean delivery needs a little extra TLC. Skin salves can help, but follow your doctor’s instructions. You shouldn’t apply anything until you get the go-ahead from your doctor, usually a week or so after delivery.
After you get the OK, proceed with caution. Allergic reactions are common with scar-reducing products, even natural ones. Start by applying a small amount to see how your skin reacts.
5. Earth Mama Angel Baby Healing Salve
Some moms claim that healing salve helps reduce the appearance of their incision scar. You can also look for alternative brands and even homemade salve recipes online.
Amazon rating: 4 stars, $16
Nothing beats sleep for healing. You should try to get as much as you can in the first weeks after your delivery. The old recommendation to “sleep when the baby sleeps” is especially important for mothers recovering from a cesarean delivery.
6. Conair Sound Therapy Machine
Need help napping? Try a sleep machine. This one is highly rated by new parents.
Amazon rating: 3 stars, $29
7. Ecotones Sound + Sleep Machine
You might also like this option from Ecotones. It’s one of the more expensive machines, but it tops several review lists.
Amazon rating: 4 stars, $150
8. Blackout Buddy Portable Blackout Blinds
Blackout shades and curtains can also make daytime sleep easier. Some are specifically designed for easy use anywhere. These can be installed under existing window treatments.
Amazon rating: 4.5 stars, $45
9. Best Home Fashion Blackout Curtain
You can also opt to change your window treatments completely with blackout curtains. These keep things dim but fashionable.
Amazon rating: 4.5 stars, $85
10. The Essential C-Section Guide
Even if your cesarean delivery is planned, knowing that surgery is on the horizon can still be nerve-wracking. The authors of this guide cover information that’s useful before, during, and after cesarean.
Amazon rating: 4.5 stars, $15
11. This Isn’t What I Expected: Overcoming Postpartum Depression
For some women who planned to deliver vaginally, a cesarean delivery can come as a shock. Talk to a doctor about your concerns and ask them where to find a therapist or support group.
You also might want to try this workbook. It’s designed to help women figure out whether or not they’re suffering from postpartum depression. It also offers some means for coping and can be done alone or with a therapist.
Amazon rating: 4 stars, $18
Women recovering from a cesarean delivery need lots of support once they get home. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need.
This is a good time to try services like grocery delivery. While you recover, also consider hiring a cleaning service for your home. If your budget allows for it, you can even hire “mother’s helpers” who entertain older children or throw in a load of laundry.