C-Section Mamas Georgina Wilson, Solenn Heussaff Swear These Products Helped Them Recover

As first-time moms, we all look forward to giving birth to a healthy newborn. We prepare everything, from our monthly check-ups to our hospital checklist. We anticipate the coming of a new baby as we go nesting and preparing for the baby's things. 

A month before giving birth, I tried Kegel exercises because I read somewhere that it helps women have an easier delivery. I also did a lot of walking exercises to help me with contractions and labor. 

However, during my actual labor, I experienced how others describe labor pain. It was intense and crampy, and the pain started in the lower back and radiated down to the thighs. The pain becomes severe and frequent as the labor progresses. I went from an induced and natural labor to intense pain until my OB told me my cervix was already dilated to 7 cm. She said I had to wait an hour until it would be 10 cm. 

I felt anxious and ready for my natural birth until I heard everyone from the room panicking as the doctor announced the need for an emergency caesarean section (C-section). I remember pleading, "Doc, wala po sa lahi namin ang CS!" I really didn't want this kind of birth.

READ ALSO: Dear Momma, Just Because You Had A C-Section Does Not Mean You Are Less Of A Mother

Why C-section moms feel insecure about their delivery

While delivering my baby, I was ashamed of how my birth story went because I was the only one in our family who underwent C-section delivery. Moms who gave birth via C-section feel their birth story is unworthy of speaking.

Society tells us it is better to have a "natural birth." But, with moms like me who labored for more than 24 hours at 7cm, I had to undergo emergency C-section because my baby swallowed her meconium (a baby's first poop) in my womb. 

Although C-section delivery may be considered the "easier" way to give birth, cesarean section is a major abdominal surgery requiring a longer recovery than vaginal delivery.

After a C-section delivery, mothers may experience pain, discomfort, tenderness arouncd the incision site, abdominal pain, bloating, and cramping. They may also have difficulty moving around and performing daily activities and need to help to care for their newborn.

Aside from the physical discomfort, moms also experience emotional challenges such as disappointment, grief, or loss if they had hoped for a vaginal birth.

If you underwent C-section delivery, be kind to yourself and listen to your body. Recovering time typically lasts several days or weeks.

READ ALSO: Here's a Look at Why C-Section Delivery Needs More Time to Heal

How to fully recover after a C-section delivery

1. Take care of your body

Solenn Heussaff shared in her 2020 vlog to "nourish and love your body, meaning feed your body correctly. Give your body the things it needs--the things that aid healing, things that aid anti-inflammatory." 

2. Wear a binder

In the Smart Parenting Village group, C-section moms also advised wearing a binder. A postpartum binder can support the abdominal muscles and help reduce discomfort and pain during movement.

3. Ambulate as soon as possible

Moms also encouraged other moms to walk after their C-section, but you should take it slowly and listen to your body. Walking can help improve circulation, prevent blood clots, and promote healing, but avoiding strenuous activity or any movements that cause pain or discomfort is essential.

4. Take care of your incision by keeping the area dry and clean

Avoid soaking in a bath or swimming until the doctor gives the green light.

Top 5 products recommended by C-section moms

Thankfully, there are innovative products that help moms fully recover from C-section delivery. You can buy these online.

1. Wink Medical Grade Postpartum Binder (Php 4990.00)

Mom of two Georgina Wilson swears by the efficiency of this binder. The C-section mom said, "My Wink binder has been my lifesaver since day 1. I haven't taken it off since the day I gave birth, and I feel naked without it!!! It feels amazing and makes you feel secure when you need it the most. I highly recommend it to anyone that's just given birth. I also feel accomplished every time I go a size down!"

Wink medical binder is recommended by medical doctors, and this binder originated in California. The exclusive distributor in the Philippines is Ms. Joy Lim-Astilla of Urban Essentials. Since she discovered it for personal use, she introduced it to Filipino moms for several years. C-section moms choose Wink or this other brand when it comes to postnatal binders.

Buy it on Lazada here.

2. Herbilogy Sweet Leaf Extract Powder (Php 495.00)

After a C-section operation, the digestive system can sometimes be sluggish due to anesthesia and pain medications, which can slow down bowel movements. A fiber-rich diet can help promote regular bowel movements, prevent constipation, and provide the nutrients needed to heal after surgery. Solenn uses this product for better recovery.

This powder completely dissolves in food/drinks. Simply mix 1 teaspoon (3 grams) of this powder into a glass of warm juice until dissolved (honey and lemon may be added) or a bowl of warm mung bean porridge. It can also be mixed into a glass of juice, smoothies, or even sprinkled on cookies, cereal, and others.

Buy it on Shopee here. 

 3. Post C-Section Recovery Belly Band (Php 395.00)

One mom from Smart Parenting Village advised: "For faster recovery, wag pong baby-hin ang pain. Try to ambulate as early as you can, kahit may catheter pa, try to walk slowly, of course as tolerated naman Buy quality binder to help you move post-op, para mas mabilis din makagalaw.”

It is recommended that C-section moms start wearing binders or belly band to begin walking, moving quickly, and taking care of their babies right away. 

Buy it on Lazada here.

 4. Dermatrix Ultragel Advanced Scar Formula (Php 1025.00)

Dermatrix is an advanced scar formula clinically proven to lighten, soften and flatten facial and body scars. I used this product as my OB-gyne recommended, and in less than two months, my C-section scar was barely noticeable.

Buy it on Shopee here. 

READ ALSO: How Can You Improve Your C-Section Scar's Appearance?

 5. Shelf Rack Cart with Locking Wheels Storage (Php 239.00)

Another mom recommended buying a movable rack by her bedside to get essential items like breast pump, diapers, a water bottle, and changing pads. After a major operation, it would be difficult to move from one side to another during the first weeks, but having these items accessible will help moms care for themselves while caring for their babies.

Buy it on Lazada here.

To the moms who will give birth via C-section, hope this list will help you recover fast, but don't forget to give yourself some grace.

To the moms who gave birth via C-section your birth story is unique! Moms should never compare their experiences to others or feel pressured by a specific type of delivery. Motherhood is not a competition. Your birth story should be celebrated!

This post-preggy shapewear earns celeb moms' approval. Read here.

Watch this video about newborn care tips from a pediatrician.