Why do people say recovery from 2nd CS was easier?

[locomomma]

Just noticed that lots of people seem to say their second section was easier to recover from. Is this because first sections are typically emergency sections and therefore more traumatic and body has already got worn out etc or is there some reason why its easier to recover after you've done it once? Just curious about what to expect on an elective section having previously had vag deliveries.

I think you are right. Second C sections are more likely to be elective so the mum hasn't also got to recover from the equivalent of running a marathon in the 48 hours before. Mentally they are probably in less shock at the whole thing and less sleep deprived before hand.

Mine were both elective, but I did find the second one a lot easier to recover from.

A couple of factors at play; I remembered how much better I felt when I got up and moved around; I had a 20 month old to look after and I knew exactly what to expect, so the psychological impact was significantly lower.

I'm watching with interest as I'm having a second section (3rd baby) in September! My first section was pretty good, so it will be amazing if all goes as well/better second time

My second one felt easier even though my first one was fine as well and they were both electives. I imagine it's coincidence. The only things I can think of were that first time round I followed advice to try to get up on the day while my legs were still numb and semi-fell which was quite painful, second time round I knew how to pace myself, and second time round I knew how to get up (not direct sit up as everyone recommends but sideways and push up).

My first c-section was a crash in life-or-death circumstances.

An elective, with all the calm, the jovial anaethatists, the nice music, dh in the delivery room and actually being conscious to see your baby at the point of delivery feels like an absolute walk in the park after that.

Also, you just have to heal quicker if you have a toddler to look after iykwim.

My first CS was planned but I didn't know what to expect. When my second was booked I had experience and this helped me prepare better to cope better.

Small things I did differently

• shaved all hair. I only shave top lot for first and realised healing was hampered and second time took it all off which helped with keeping it dry etc.
• taking all meds regular as clockwork. After first one I thought I couldn't take them or only when in pain. After second I knew I had to remain topped up for effective relief
• prepping visitors- I was more aware that I needed rest the second time so I arranged a timetable of friends so I always had someone to help me and actually didn't move off sofa for days ;0)
• changing table high and stocked downstairs.

Two electives here and my second recovery was easier for many of the practical reasons already mentioned.

I also bought a second hand sturdy high armchair (nursing home style) and it was so much easier than getting on and off the sofa! I kept it until DS was 5..!

Second easier here too. First was an EMCS second was planned. Learnt a hard and painful lesson first time round by over doing it so barely got out of pyjamas for two weeks second time around.

Both mine were emcs, the second was easier because I knew what to expect