Every woman's recovery from a c-section will be different, depending on age, body type, and general health. Although the healing process can be prolonged and frustrating, remember that you have just had major abdominal surgery and have given birth to a new baby. Your body has certainly undergone its share of trauma, but the result ~ your precious child ~ is worth it!

Some of the physical symptoms that may plague you .

• gas pains from being opened
• incisional pain
• uterine contractions (your uterus will still need to
  work to get back to its original shape)
• physical exhaustion ~ either from medications,
  labour (if you had one), or just in general.

Your staples will usually be removed about 4-7 days postpartum. Try to take everything easy. Do as little as possible, although walking as soon as possible is very helpful in your recovery. The rule of thumb is to not lift anything heavier than your baby.

When you get home, take the steps only once a day (if at all). Make a nest on the couch and nap there during the day. Get as much help as you can with your cleaning, food preparations, and other children.

You can start doing breathing exercises the first day in the hospital ~ someone should show you how. Then each day you can gradually find small exercises to do to get back into shape. Do not return to your previous exercise routine without permission of your care provider. Overdoing it will only slow your recovery.

By the end of six weeks, many women say they are feeling pretty good, although still dealing with some pain and sleeplessness. After this period you can usually resume most activities (Some doctors will allow you to drive after about 2 weeks, others request that you wait the entire 6).