How I Overcame Stress After Giving Birth to My Fourth Child Through Cesarean Section
Motherhood is a beautiful journey, but it comes with its challenges. As a mom of four, I thought I had seen it all. But after delivering my fourth child through a cesarean section again, I faced a new kind of physical and emotional stress that I wasn’t fully prepared for, you can never imagine what I went through. I just have to clean properly with soap and water, no shower 😞 this time it took me two months to heal from the wounds before bathing.
Recovering from surgery while taking care of a newborn and three older kids was overwhelming. I felt exhausted, emotionally drained, and at times, completely lost. However, with time, patience, and intentional self-care, I found ways to overcome the stress and regain my strength. In this post, I’ll share my personal experience and the steps that helped me through this challenging period, I certainly know there is someone out there who needs to be talked to, hugged and need some advice.
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| A Picture Of a Stressed Woman |
1. Accepting That I Needed Help
One of the hardest things for me was accepting that I couldn’t do everything on my own. Before my cesarean, I was always hands-on with my kids and household chores. But after surgery, I was in pain, and my body needed time to heal.
I got admitted when I went for antenatal, there was no one with me, my maid got admission into the polytechnic, I was stranded and had to call on my brother-in-law to assist me for two days before my husband arrived from his trip.
My husband stepped in more, even my older kids helped with little tasks, and that made a big difference. If you’re recovering from a C-section, don’t be afraid to ask for support—it’s not a sign of weakness but a necessity for healing. You wouldn't want your stitches to open.
2. Rest and Recovery Very Important
As a mom, it’s tempting to jump right back into daily responsibilities, that was exactly how I felt, I wanted to bake all recipes for my kids, sew new dresses for my daughter but I quickly realized that my body wouldn’t allow it. I had to slow down and focus on recovery.
I made sure to sleep whenever my baby slept. Even short naps helped me feel more refreshed.
I avoided heavy lifting and gave myself grace to heal at my own pace. It wasn't easy, I had to go for check up twice every week 😞
I reminded myself that resting was not being lazy—it was necessary for my well-being.
For any mom recovering from a C-section, please give yourself permission to rest. Your body has gone through a major surgery, and healing takes time.
3. Managing Emotional Stress and Postpartum Blues
Apart from the physical pain, I also experienced moments of sadness, frustration, and even guilt. I felt guilty for not being as active with my other children and sometimes questioned whether I was doing enough for my newborn. I could remember solving some mathematics homework from the hospital, while still on admission, it wasn't easy at all.
What helped me emotionally was: Talking with my kids, husband, watching some reality show, reading with my phone,
Just expressing my emotions made me feel lighter.
I gave myself the confidence that I'll overcome it after all I wasn't the first to have a ceaseran operation and some mothers may be experiencing it like me.
4. Eating Well and Staying Hydrated
I realized that my energy levels were directly affected by what I ate. I made an effort to:
Eat more protein-rich foods to help with recovery.
I avoided carbonated drinks, caffeine. Fruits and vegetables played an important role for me and a balanced diet. Food packed with good nutrients, remember there is a baby in the picture which is important when it comes to the quality and quantity of breast milk.
5. Light Exercise and Movement
At first, I couldn’t do much physically, but as my doctor recommended, I started with simple walks around the house. Gradually, I increased my movement by going to the nearest store for little shopping and market, and it helped with my mood and overall recovery.
No heavy exercises please.
6. I Found Joys in My Daily Routine
I learned to celebrate small wins. Whether it was taking a shower without interruptions, enjoying a cup of tea, or watching my baby sleep peacefully, I embraced the little joys.
I listened to uplifting music
I danced little with my kids
I sat on the mat to play games with my kids
I watched light-hearted shows.
I took a few minutes to breathe deeply and be present in the moment.
Finding joy in simple things helped shift my focus from stress to gratitude.
7. Connecting With Other Moms
Talking to other moms who had gone through a C-section helped me feel understood. I met friends at the hospital, I joined a few online communities and learnt a lot, It was comforting to know that I wasn’t alone in my struggles.
Don't feel isolated, try joining a mom support group. Sometimes, just knowing that others have been in your shoes makes a huge difference.
I Made It
Overcoming stress after my fourth C-section wasn’t easy, but through rest, self-care, and support, I found my strength again. If you’re a mom recovering from a cesarean birth, please be patient with yourself. Take it one day at a time, and remember that you’re doing an amazing job.
Motherhood is a journey, and even in the toughest moments, there is beauty in it. Stay strong, mothers—you’ve got this!
Have you experienced stress after childbirth? How did you cope? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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