Compression stockings after c section

[Clitheroo]

I had a c section on Tuesday. Recovery is going well - I'm moving about but not overdoing it. Haven't been out of the house yet but pottering around the house slowly. I have blood thinning injections for 6 weeks post birth and was on them from 28 weeks of pregnancy. Have lots of swelling in both legs - fluid retention, had that after my first c section too.

Anyway I had compression stockings in hospital but I've not been told to wear them at home- should I be, or are the blood thinners enough to prevent a clot given I am not bedbound? Can't get hold of my midwife. The stockings were making me insanely itchy in hospital so I'm really not keen on putting them back on!!

Try these, they’re classed as medical devices in Australia and available on insurance there. https://srchealth.com/products/src-recovery-leggings

You get the most benefit from the full length leggings, but they sell them in midi and mini as well. I wore them 24/7 for two weeks. The midwives commented how quickly I healed.

I got them from this UK website, they do deals sometimes like bank holidays but best to get them asap for the blood flow benefit. https://www.stressnomore.co.uk/products/src-health-postpartum-recovery-leggings-12506

They're out of stock on that website but found them in stock here www.kegel8.co.uk/src-health-postpartum-recovery-leggings-12506.html

I would advise you to continue wearing them, alongside your daily injections, until your mobility returns to normal.

I wasn't told to wear mine at home so didn't. No issues, midwife never asked about them

Christ I can't wear the bloody things for that long!!! They're so uncomfortable and sweaty.

I didn’t have a c section but did have to take blood thinning injections after having the baby and I was told to leave the socks on all the time. Took them off for showers or washing them and then put them back on till the swelling had gone down.

As a mum who’s had sections, I agree. As a midwife, I would advise you keep them on 😊 Ultimately, it’s your choice but you should have been informed on why we advise you to continue to wear them, prior to being discharged from the hospital.

I had a c section nearly 3 weeks ago and took the stockings off before my first shower in hospital and never bothered to put them back on. I stayed in hospital a few days afterwards too but no one ever mentioned them. I would think as long as you’re taking the injections and moving around as much as you can that would be enough.

Just got hold of midwife and she said no need to wear them as long as I'm moving about relatively frequently and taking thinners.

That’s great and a welcome relief I imagine.

I think the advice for compression stockings might be in the process of being updated. Search for NICE guidelines and latest research on their use.

Please try to make time to sit with your feet elevated to reduce the oedema.

This I do!