Planned c-section recovery after first few weeks

[BennettBoots]

I'm nearly 3 weeks since a planned c-section. (My first pregnancy). Can anyone tell me what to expect from here in terms of my physical recovery? I'm still experiencing pain in my stomach / tummy and it's worse after periods of sitting, lying down or sleeping. I still have a bump, looking about 5-6 months pregnant. Wound is sore in places but seems to be healing fine and has been checked. Trying to do gentle walks daily. Super keen to start suitable exercise eg swimming, longer walks once I'm able to, but I know i have to take it easy.

Can anyone say how long their recovery was and how it progressed from here? And what helped? I'm worried I've reached a plateau and this is as good as it's going to get. I can't imagine how I felt before I got pregnant anymore! I'm 40 by the way, but was pretty fit before all this.

[DinosApple]

It will definitely get better than that, don't worry.

At 3 weeks pp I went to the supermarket for one item and was knackered on walking out. I was definitely still sore and flashed my stitches at any willing medical professional to check they were healing ok.

I was getting towards normal from about 3 months and took up running a few years later when I had more time. I don't have much sensitivity on my lower abdomen still, but it has improved over the years and the scar faded within 18 months.

Also I definitely still looked pregnant at that stage after both DC (VB and CS) in my 20s.
After I started running I got back into shape. Some people ping back quicker, I was not one of life's pingers sadly!

It will take time, its major surgery, and if it's still sore it's definitely not worth upping the exercise just yet. Like you said just gentle walks for now, gradually up the length as you feel better.

[BennettBoots]

Thanks for this. To be clear, are you saying you still looked pregnant at my stage (3 weeks later) or right up until you started running? I'm so ready to move out of the maternity clothes and leggings! X

[earlydoors42]

You are expecting too much too soon. That was major abdominal surgery you had. Don't do anything until 6 weeks post, then reassess where you are.

[AppleKatie]

I agree you’re expecting too much too soon.

Gentle walks around the block with the pram at this stage only. And you will look pregnant for awhile yet.

Reassess after the six week check and discuss your own exercise with your doctor then. Until then be kind to yourself.

[BennettBoots]

Thanks. I know it sounds like I'm expecting too much, but I was really asking what to expect from hereon in as it's all new to me. It's helpful to have goals and steps of recovery, even if they are far away. Don't like not knowing if how I feel and look today is how things will stay, iyswim.