In the first few hours after the birth most mothers:
- spend time getting to know their new baby
- cuddle with their baby
- feed their baby for the first time
- have a light meal or snack
- move to their room for rest
Some other things that will happen during this time:
- Your pulse, blood pressure, temperature, urine output, abdominal wound and vaginal bleeding will be checked by the nurse.
- You will receive pain relief.
- You will pass urine through the catheter into a bag for a while.
- Women need to stay in the hospital for 3-4 days after the surgery to recover. You may need assistance from the nurse to help you care for yourself and your baby.
- Your partner or support person may wish to stay the nights with you. Your baby will stay in your room with you.
Your length of stay in the hospital will depend on the speed of recovery and support available at home. If you are concerned about length of time in the hospital, you can discuss this with your doctor or midwife.