after c section PSA: no issues climbing stairs or going back to work
My baby is now 9 weeks 2 days old (born via elective c-section, currently sleeping on my chest). While pregnant, I had two really specific questions about how soon I could go back to work (I'm the breadwinner 4x over) and whether or not I could climb up to my apartment post surgery (5 flights of stairs)!
Both of these topics got downvoted a LOT and there was tons of fear mongering saying it was impossible. It was really stressful & gave me tons of anxiety. All anyone would say about c sections were that they were MAJOR SURGERY & to not underestimate the healing process. Just wanted to write a note of positivity on both these fronts for the random woman with my same issues:
I gained 50-60 lbs during my pregnancy, but kept up pilates and walking right up until my due date. I'd say I was relatively fit going in. I did 3 nights in the hospital out of an abundance of caution about the stairs. I left the hospital feeling really good. I was on just the basic pain meds at that point (ibuprofen/aspirin, can't remember the exact combo). I walked slowly up the five flights, walking sideways, and taking breaks. Literally no issue. No pulled stitches, no pain. Phew! I then just stayed in my apartment for a week, although I really did feel fine and probably could have left. (I'm not even sure I needed the 3rd night in the hospital tbh, I was ready to come home and sick of the nurses. That being said, it definitely made it so I had no doubt I could handle getting home.)
I had to go back to work after 2 weeks. I know this is unpopular, but I make the money in my family, and I didn't have the option not to. (I'm a small business owner in the US.) I was really worried about fatigue/pain/immobility/complications. Basically: It was completely and totally fine. You can do it if you need to do it! Logistics: I chose formula feeding so that I would be able to manage the transition. My mother lives with us, and provides tons of childcare. Obviously, this is not everyone's vision of motherhood, but it worked for me.
Hopefully this helps someone face these obstacles... Happy to answer questions.