Getting out of bed after your C-section

It can be incredibly daunting getting out of bed for the first time after your C-section. Even once you get home the challenge remains. Pain, low and soft beds and uncertainty about how to move properly can all contribute to the difficulties.

Some movements to avoid...

Trying to sit straight upright, having someone pull you up or scissoring your legs over the edge of the bed to lever yourself up will all place a significant amount of strain over your C-section scar. These movements also strain through your abdominal muscles which separate during pregnancy (diastasis recti). Avoiding straining through these muscles will help the separation to repair, especially for anyone who has a significant separation.

Here are the steps to follow for the best way to get out of bed after your C-section

• Starting on your back gently bend your knees up one at a time
• Reach your hand across your body to the direction you want to move
• Bring your hips across at the same time as you move your arm and roll onto your side
• Get comfortable in this side lying position
• Place the hand on your upper and and the elbow on your lower arm into the bed
• Push yourself up to sitting from the side lying position
• Once sitting get your feet firmly on the ground
• Wriggle your bottom forwards to the edge of the bed
• Push through your hand and bend forwards at your hips bringing your nose over your toes
• Use your hand and your upper legs to drive you forwards to the upright position

See the video for you complete guide.

How long should you get of bed after your C-section this way?

Your C-section scar and your abdominal muscles will be rapidly healing in the first 6 weeks so it is recommended not to strain through these areas for 6 weeks.

Once your C-section scar has healed and has been reviewed by your health care practitioner you can begin your C-section scar massage.

Click HERE for your full C-section Scar Massage Instructional Video