A caesarean birth is a major operation. Rest after operation is important to allow the wound to heal. For the first 12-24 hours after the surgery, the woman would usually require rest in bed. The woman would be given strong pain killers for pain relief. She would have a drip to keep her hydrated, and a urinary catheter to keep her bladder empty.
She might also be given special stockings for the legs to prevent deep venous thrombosis (DVT - blood clots) in the legs. The woman is allowed to eat and drink after the operation if her observations are stable. After the initial 24 hours, if the operation has been straight forward, the woman should be encouraged to mobilise. Mobilising is important to reduce the risks of DVT. The stay in hospital is normally 3-4 days. However, the recovery process for the whole operation is at least 6 weeks. After hospital discharge, ample rest at home s still required for the wound to heal.