Bringing twins, triplets, or more into the world is an incredible journey, and if your little ones arrived via C-section, your recovery is an essential part of the process. A C-section is major surgery, and when you add in the demands of caring for multiple newborns, your body and mind will need some extra support.
Recovery After A C-section For Twins or Triplets
We’ve gathered real advice from parents who have been there, offering practical tips and reassuring words to help you navigate your recovery.
Preparing for the Ride Home
That first trip home from the hospital can be nerve-wracking—every little bump in the road feels magnified. A simple trick to relieve pressure on your incision? Use a small pillow or a folded towel between your belly and the seatbelt.
“A pillow for the drive home between your belly and the seat belt to relieve any added pressure (obviously done in a safe manner and not a gigantic pillow that will interrupt the function of the seat belt!).”
If you don’t have a small pillow handy, no worries!
“A folded towel can work too if they don’t have a small pillow.”
Recovery After A C-section For Twins or Triplets: Pain Management is Key
Let’s be real—C-section recovery isn’t a walk in the park, but staying on top of your pain relief can make a world of difference.
“Keep taking the Panadol and Nurofen for a minimum of 2 weeks religiously because the moment you stop, the pain eases will return.”
Even if you’re feeling okay, don’t try to tough it out.
“Take the pain relief when it’s offered. Even if you feel fine, because it wears off in a split second!”
And don’t forget about afterbirth pains, especially if you’re breastfeeding or pumping.
“When the afterbirth pains start, ask for heat packs because they do help a little.”
Get Moving (But Gently!)
It may seem counterintuitive, but walking as soon as you’re able is one of the best things you can do to speed up healing.
“My biggest tip would be to get up and walk around as soon as you can. (Having twins in special care made my healing process so much easier).”
“Walk but keep it to flat surfaces. No uphills.”
Some mums swear that walking helped them recover faster:
“I spent from day 3 walking about 2.5km to special care and back to my accommodation 2-4 times a day, and it definitely helped healing.”
Recovery After A C-section For Twins or Triplets: Wound Care & Comfort Hacks
Your incision needs to stay clean and dry to heal properly. These simple tricks can help:
- Use a maternity pad over your wound to prevent rubbing.
“I used a pad on my wound so it wouldn’t rub on clothes.” - A hairdryer on a cool setting can help keep the area dry, especially in humid climates.
“Use a hair dryer to dry the wound.” - Invest in high-waisted, soft underwear that won’t dig into your scar.
“Invest in full briefs that go up to your belly button and cover your scar.“
Support for Your Stomach and Muscles
After carrying multiples, your core has been through a lot and your recovery after a c-section for twins or triplets may take a while. These tips can help with healing:
- Compression stockings can provide support.
“Wear your compression stockings after—it helps you feel all together after the babies are out.” - When getting out of bed, roll onto your side first rather than sitting up directly.
“Roll onto your side and push up with your arms—don’t try to use your core initially, it will hurt!”
Don’t Push Yourself Too Hard
Yes, movement is good, but there are limits. Overdoing it can slow your healing.
“When they say don’t lift anything heavier than your babies, don’t. Not your toddler, not a washing basket, not a vacuum. At least for a few weeks.”
Practical Tips for the First Few Days at Home
The transition from hospital to home can be overwhelming. Here are some must-know tips:
- Accept help! Whether it’s lifting your pram into the car or meal prepping, let others support you.
“You will need help to lift your pram into the car!” - Take stool softeners to make your first bowel movement easier.
“Take the Movicol when they give it to you!” - Have plenty of snacks on hand—you’ll need the energy, especially if breastfeeding.
“Always tick the sandwich option on the hospital meal order! You will be hungry.”
Every Recovery is Different
One of the most important things to remember is that each persons recovery after a c-section for twins or triplets will be different.
“Don’t compare your experiences, pain, and recovery with others. Every C-section is different.”
For some, recovery is smooth, while others may have a tougher time. And that’s okay.
“Mine was quicker and easier recovery than my natural birth!”
“I was literally hanging out washing 4 days after and driving 3 weeks after. Mine healed so well.”
But if your recovery feels harder than expected, don’t be discouraged. Listen to your body and reach out for medical advice if needed.
Recovery After A C-section For Twins or Triplets: Final Thoughts
Recovering from a C-section while caring for newborn multiples is no small feat, but with the right support, patience, and self-care, you’ll get through it. Take things slow, prioritise rest when you can, and most importantly—be kind to yourself.
And remember, whether your babies arrived through the “sunroof” or not, you are an incredible parent.
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