Hi OP I had an emergency c section in 2019 following an induction and 2 day labour. I then went on to have an elective section in October 2020 during the pandemic.
The elective was a lovely experience in comparison. I was well rested. My DH stayed with me on the ward from 7am. There were 3 sections booked. They told me I was second in line, but then an emergency came so I ended up third and went down at midday. The birth itself was very calm qnd relaxing. 100x better than the my first section where I was pumped full or drugs and hadn't eaten or slept for days. Following the op, I was taken to recovery with my husband to establish feeding although I decided to express feed so baby was given a bottle. After about an hour, I was taken to the ward. Due to covid husband could come for 2 hours at visiting time which was luckily when I was taken to the ward. I have mixed feelings about partners only visiting during visiting hours.
During my first birth, he was allowed the whole time and slept on the floor next to my bed. Walking around with a urine bag, in a lot of pain and a flimsy hospital gown isn't ideal with lots of men around but the supprt of having DH was obviously good. Second time round I relied more heavily on the midwives (you have a button) and actually preferred the calmer feel of the ward with just the women. Although some were very upset at being alone after traumatic births.
There's not a lot you can do straight awat but feed. The midwives will have to pass your baby to you and change their nappy. You'll feel pretty relaxed with the drugs pumping round and take all the help. Do nothing, it's important. After a few hours (can't remember how many) the midwives will help you walk. Then your urine bag can be removed and you can use the toilet and showers which is a godsend. The pain is quite intense but just keep taking the pain meds. I was discharged after 24 hours but asked to stay another night as I regretted going home that soon first time. The midwives weren't great about that and I felt they were annoyed as needed the best, but it is a major operation and they used to keep you in a week.
When you return home, your partner will need to be prepared to do nearly everything. You will be immobile for a few days. Keep on top of your pain medication and each day will be easier. A midwife will visit and take off your bandage and check your scar and give you special body wash. Don't rush your recovery or it will set you back.
My top tips are keeping a note of pain meds and taking them religiously for at least a week, doing as little as possible and not expecting too much of yoursel. After 3 weeks, I was out walking. 6 weeks I was back swimming and after 2 months running. But you really do need to properly recover. In my first section I pushed myself and I set myself back. Second time I just gave in and stayed put on the sofa for 2 weeks with DH giving me baby.
The birth itself was very calm and lovely though, no pain. And the recovery both times tough but manageable. X