How to restore gastrointestinal function after cesarean section

May 13, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, early mobilization, dietary regulation, abdominal massage, adequate hydration, and appropriate medication can help restore gastrointestinal function after cesarean section. If there are any concerns, it is recommended to seek medical advice in advance. During the recovery of gastrointestinal function after cesarean section, the mother should pay attention to rest and avoid excessive fatigue.

Cesarean section, also known as a C-section, typically allows for early mobilization, dietary adjustments, abdominal massage, hydration, and appropriate medication use after surgery to help restore gastrointestinal function. If concerns arise, it is advisable to seek medical consultation in advance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Early Mobilization

After cesarean delivery, mothers are encouraged to get out of bed and move around as soon as their physical condition permits. This not only helps stimulate intestinal motility and prevent adhesions and bowel obstruction, but also promotes blood circulation and accelerates wound healing. Early mobilization can start with simple activities such as standing beside the bed, gradually increasing the amount of activity.

2. Dietary Adjustments

After cesarean delivery, the mother's diet should gradually transition from liquid to semi-liquid food, and then slowly return to a normal diet. In the early postoperative period, easily digestible and absorbable foods such as rice water and thin porridge can be selected. Avoid oily, spicy, irritating foods, and gas-producing foods such as beans and milk to reduce the burden on the gastrointestinal tract.

3. Abdominal Massage

Abdominal massage is an effective method of promoting gastrointestinal motility. The mother can lie on her back, bend her knees, relax the abdomen, and use the heel of the hand to massage clockwise around the navel, starting from the umbilical area. Each session should last 10 to 15 minutes and can be performed 2 to 3 times daily. This helps stimulate intestinal peristalsis and promotes flatus and defecation.

4. Hydration

After cesarean delivery, mothers should appropriately replenish fluids to promote intestinal motility and bodily metabolism. Drinking sufficient water also helps soften stools and prevent constipation. Mothers are advised to drink enough water daily to maintain proper hydration balance.

5. Appropriate Medication Use

Under the guidance of a physician, mothers may use certain medications that promote gastrointestinal motility, such as Lactobacillus tablets or Domperidone tablets, to help relieve gastrointestinal discomfort and promote recovery of gastrointestinal function. However, attention should be paid to the dosage and duration of medication to avoid misuse.

During the recovery of gastrointestinal function after cesarean delivery, mothers should ensure adequate rest and avoid excessive fatigue.

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What is a cesarean section?

In general, cesarean section refers to a type of surgery used to deliver a baby through an incision in the mother's abdomen. A cesarean delivery is a method of childbirth in which a physician surgically cuts through the abdominal wall and uterus to deliver the baby when the mother is unable to deliver vaginally. The procedure is typically performed in an operating room using either regional or general anesthesia.

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What is the minimum thickness of a scarred uterus that poses a risk?

Under normal circumstances, a scarred uterus is generally considered to be at a higher risk when the thinnest part is less than 3 mm. A scarred uterus refers to the formation of scar tissue beneath the muscular layer of the uterus following a cesarean section, which can significantly reduce the elasticity of the uterine muscle layer. The normal thickness of a scarred uterus is generally 3 mm or more. When the thinnest part of the scarred uterus is less than 3 mm, it is usually considered to be relatively dangerous.