Having a caesarean section, or C-section, can be a distressing experience, especially if you weren’t expecting it. Occurring in roughly one in three women, C-sections impact your body’s normal healing process post-partum; you’ll be sore, have stiches to take care of, and a newborn infant who is learning how to nurse. A great thing to remember is that breastfeeding is a dance where both partners need to patiently learn the steps.

The idea that breastfeeding comes “naturally” is not true for many women, which is why doulas and midwives have existed for thousands of years! Women who deliver vaginally, with the opportunity to heal normally post-partum still sometimes struggle with breastfeeding, but C-sections can make breastfeeding even more challenging.

Stay optimistic! Millions of moms have learned to breastfeed after their surgery, and you can too!

Are the Medications Given During and After My C-Section Safe for My Baby?

Yes! The medications (including the surgical anesthesia given during your C-section) are safe for your baby. After your surgery, you’ll likely be given pain medications and antibiotics to keep infections from developing at the surgical site. These medications should also be safe for your baby, but it’s a good idea to talk to your pharmacist when filling your prescription. If the pharmacist says the prescribed medications may not be compatible with breastfeeding, have them call your physician’s office and request the order of an alternative medication.

Will I Be Able to Nurse Right Away?

Most hospitals will allow you to nurse your baby immediately after delivery right in the operating room. The sooner you start nursing, the easier it will be for you and your baby to learn how to work together. During this first nursing episode, you’ll still be numb from surgery and will have to lay flat on your back. Your partner, birth coach, and nurses are available to help you place your baby into a good position for nursing. As with all nursing relationships, babies should be nursed on demand. This means watching for your baby’s hunger cues such as smacking their lips, sucking on their hands, or expressions of minor irritation. Crying is a late hunger signal; try noticing these other signs first, so that you don’t have to calm your baby down before she is able to nurse.

What Breastfeeding Positions Should I try After Having a C-Section?

Pillows are your new best friend! After a C-section, you’ll want to keep pressure off your lower abdomen, where your surgical scar will be. Do what’s most convenient when learning to nurse your baby, and use rolled towels or blankets, throw pillows, or specialty breastfeeding pillows to keep your baby’s weight off your tender areas. Initially, it may be tough to roll over because of attached IV lines and general discomfort.

However, this should subside and you’ll be free to try a few comfortable breastfeeding

● Side-Lying: Lay on your side, and place your baby so that he is facing you. Place a rolled towel or small pillow behind your baby so that he’s not accidentally inching away from you while trying to nurse. Cradle his head with your arm and situate him so that his ears and hips are in alignment. Be sure to protect your surgical site from accidental bumps with a throw pillow. Keeping a cushion between your legs will reduce strain on your abdominal muscles. Many mothers find that side-lying is their favorite nursing variation.

● Football Hold: The football hold or clutch position is great for mothers who’ve recently had a Cesarean section because it keeps the baby away from the surgical site completely. To practice the football hold, sit upright in a comfortable seat and place your baby on a pillow at your side so that one hand is clutching his head and the other is at your breast. Keep his legs on the outside of your body and keep his mouth at nipple height. Now, hold your breast in a “C” position, or make a “C” with your thumb, forefinger, and middle finger and encourage him to begin nursing. Again, pillows are your lifeline, so use them gratuitously when learning any new breastfeeding position.

Does Having a C-Section Affect My Milk Supply?

On average, your milk will take 2 to 6 days to “come in.” During this time, you’ll produce colostrum, a nutrient dense liquid that delivers instant immune factors and accessible carbohydrates to your newborn. C-sections don’t negatively impact when your milk will come in on their own, but mothers who’ve had a stressful birth, whether vaginally or surgically, tend to have their milk arrive on the later end of those 2 to 6 days.

To combat this, nurse as early as possible and as frequently as your baby will allow. Avoid formula supplements and trust in your body. If you’re still unsure about your supply or feeling nervous about your baby’s latch, call a professional lactation consultant. It’s usually an easy fix.

When you’ve had a C-section, take your time healing, and let friends and family help you around the house. This is an intimate time where not only will you be healing, but you’ll be bonding and learning new skills with your baby. Soak these precious days up!