How long can you not eat before a caesarean section?

Although cesarean section is very safe, there are still some risks. In order to avoid unnecessary harm, mothers need to avoid eating and drinking before the operation. Many mothers who are going to have a caesarean section understand this, but they don’t know how long it will take, and they are afraid that they will not be able to bear it if they don’t eat for too long. So, how long before a caesarean section can you not eat? Today I will give you a detailed introduction.

How long before a cesarean section can you not eat?

For cesarean section, it is recommended not to eat or drink for 8 hours before the operation, not to drink water for 4 hours, and to completely fast for 6 hours after the operation. You can drink a little water 6 hours after the operation. You can eat after normal ventilation. If the menstrual cycle is normal, the delivery date is 40 weeks of pregnancy. If a cesarean section is required, it can be done after 38 weeks of pregnancy. Early exercise after cesarean section is beneficial to the recovery of the stomach and intestines.

Common questions about confinement after cesarean section:

1. Drink plenty of water: Pregnant women who have undergone cesarean section should drink plenty of water during the confinement period. It not only prevents constipation but is also beneficial for breastfeeding.

2. Care for the wound: Try not to make big movements after giving birth. When coughing or laughing, you can prop up the wound or use a pillow to press against the abdomen to help relieve pain. Take good care of the wound to prevent infection. If there are symptoms such as redness, swelling or even fever of the wound, you should seek medical attention immediately.

3. Carefully observe the postpartum lochia. After giving birth, pregnant women's secretions increase significantly, but as the body gradually recovers, the amount of lochia will decrease to a certain extent, and the color of lochia will gradually change from red to light pink, and finally to yellow-white. Careful examination of postpartum lochia is a must for pregnant women who have undergone cesarean section. If any abnormality is found in postpartum lochia, medical attention should be sought immediately.

4. Clothing should be loose fitting. Pregnant women should choose a size larger pair of lace-up or boxer briefs.

5. You can do appropriate fitness exercises. 6-8 weeks after surgery, you can start doing some light to moderate intensity exercise, but you must get the doctor's approval before you can do it. For a pregnant woman who has undergone a caesarean section to fully recover to her pre-pregnancy body, it may take several months to a year, depending on individual circumstances.