Helpful Products to Ease Early C-Section Discomfort

The first 1-2 weeks after a c-section can catch some people off guard. Yes - it’s a major abdominal surgery so you expect some down time. But since many are given minimal guidance on how to care for themselves once they get home, those initial symptoms of pain, stiffness, tightness, and restriction may come as a surprise. On top of needing to care for a newborn!

Here are 4 products that I recommend to help ease the early c-section discomfort:

This post does contain affiliate links.

1. ICE PACK

COLPAC LARGE ICE PACK

Having a large, high quality ice pack comes in really handy for the unexpected abdominal swelling. Make sure to place this in a pillow case - don’t place directly on the skin. Place across the abdomen for 15-20 minutes a few times a day during the first 1-2 weeks.

2. SUPPORT BLOOMERS

BAO BEI SUPPORT BLOOMERS

These provide gentle compression through the pelvic floor and lower abdominals to help with managing swelling, pressure and discomfort.

You can use code “drannie” for 15% your first purchase. This is a great company to look at for other perinatal wear!

3. ABDOMINAL BINDER

SIMPLE ABDOMINAL BINDER

An simple velcro abdominal binder can be great for providing enough external support to decrease pain during daily tasks. You don’t need anything fancy (multiple straps, lacing,…no corsets!) and not too compressive. You should still be able to breath normally and have full rib expansion.

4. SQUATTY POTTY

SQUATTY POTTY

This is a game changer when it comes to improving ease of bowel movements. The first postpartum BM and even into the first 1-2 weeks can be challenging due to constipation and the need to increase pressure in the abdomen to push.

In addition to the Squatty Potty, you can also brace the abdomen with a pillow as you exhale and push. The pillow supports the abdomen to make this process less uncomfortable.

---

Having these products on hand can make those first few weeks a bit more manageable. In addition, know that light movement often makes tissues feel looser and less stiff, so prioritizing very short <5 minute walks in the first week is valuable - even if it’s just around the kitchen.

If you’ve had a c-section, I highly recommend seeing a physical therapist postpartum for rehabilitation. This is a big deal, just like surgeries to repair shoulders and knees! Physical therapy helps restore mobility, decrease pain, increase strength and improve scar function.