Every April, we observe International Cesarean Section Awareness Month—a time to raise awareness, share knowledge and positive and beautiful ‘belly birth’ stories, as well as advocate for and support mothers who have experienced cesarean births. At The Golden Mother, we believe in empowering women through education, support and natural wellness solutions. In this blog post, we'll explore the significance of International Cesarean Section Awareness Month, how our products can support cesarean birth mothers during the postpartum period, and tips for promoting healing and well-being...
This is also a topic close to our hearts, because I am a woman and a mother who has experienced a cesarean firsthand. I find myself often speaking up about their significance and raising awareness about how we can prepare for cesareans and also how we can support mothers who have also experienced them too.
I had an emergency cesarean for my first birth (with my daughter Farrah), and although unplanned it was still overall a positive experience. However, the recovery really threw me and hit me hard as I didn’t not prepare at ALL that a c-section would become my reality, and I also struggled to process the and unpack all the feelings and layers or emotions that cam along with it. Grief, confusion, disappointment, sadness and anger were some of the emotions that surfaced soon after and throughout my postpartum period. It really did take years and subsequent births to help heal emotionally, mentally and spiritually. And now, 6 years on, I can now feel so proud, empowered, and in absolute awe of what me and my body (and baby) achieved with that miracle of a birth.
You can listen to my birth story and emergency cesarean experience here at Australian Birth Stories: https://australianbirthstories.com/podcast/episode-188/
You can also listen to my second and third birth stories including hospital VBCA and home-birth on episode 393 of Australian Birth Stories here: https://australianbirthstories.com/podcast/episode-393/
Understanding Cesarean Births:
Cesarean sections, or C-sections as they have more recently been referred to as, are surgical deliveries used when vaginal birth may pose risks to the mother or baby. While often necessary for medical reasons, cesarean births can impact a woman's physical and emotional well-being, requiring specialised care during the postpartum period, particularly if unplanned, or in ‘emergency c-sections’. It is very important that we continue to raise awareness for the needs of these mothers because it is major surgery and it is often under appreciated, downplayed and generally most mothers have to just ‘get on with it as they now have a new baby to look after. But the good news is, there is so much we can do to support cesarean section healing.
Tips for Post-Cesarean Healing:
1. Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated and nourished with nutrient-rich foods to support healing and energy levels. As always, with TCM, incorporate warming, cooked foods and warm drinks/teas, and avoid cold, frozen and raw foods and drinks. Our Traditional Herbal Tea is the perfect postpartum recovery BFF
2. Rest and Recovery: Allow time for rest and recovery, listening to your body's cues and prioritising self-care. The more you can rest, the better; where less is more. Your body and future self will thank you for this as you’re looking after your kidney ‘Jing’ or ‘vital essence’ (which is essentially in charge of your longevity). Oh so important...
3. Emotional Support: Seek emotional support from loved ones, your midwife/care provider support groups, or professional counsellors to process emotions and challenges related to cesarean birth. There are some greta books for this too. I recommend: ‘Cesarean Section: Understanding and Celebrating Your Baby's Birth’ and also ‘How to heal a Bad Birth’.
4. Gentle Movement: Incorporate gentle movement and stretching exercises to promote circulation and prevent stiffness. For example, gentle arm/leg stretches and easy walking once cleared from your care provided (this is recommended only once you’re feeling comfortable and able to do so)
Supporting Healing with Natural Solutions:
At The Golden Mother, we offer natural wellness solutions designed to support mothers during the postpartum journey. Our products, such as our ‘Moxa Wands’ and ‘Castor Oil’, can play a valuable role in promoting healing, relaxation, and overall well-being after cesarean births.
Moxa Wands for Healing:
Moxibustion, a traditional healing technique in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves applying indirect heat to specific points, meridian or areas on the body to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and support healing. Our moxa wands are gentle and easy to use, making them ideal for postpartum care. We recommend moxa use for scar healing form 1 week post surgery and alway recommend getting someone else to use the moxa for you.
How Moxa Wands Can Help:
~Promote circulation and healing at the incision/wound site
~Reduce inflammation and discomfort
~Support relaxation and stress relief
~Enhance energy flow and vitality~
~Soften scars internally and adhesions internally
~Support nerve function and reduce numbness
Castor Oil for Nourishment:
Castor oil packs have been used for centuries as a natural remedy to support healing, detoxification, and relaxation. When applied to the abdomen, castor oil can help reduce inflammation, promote tissue regeneration, and support the body's natural healing processes. We recommend to start using cast oil after 12 weeks, or 3 months post surgery (and once you have clearance from your care provider).
How Castor Oil Can Help:
~Reduce scar tissue and adhesions
~Support detoxification and lymphatic drainage
~Soothe and nourish the skin
~Promote relaxation and stress relief
~Reduce redness and physical scarring
We also have beautifully and carefully curated Postpartum Bundles for new mothers that cesarean section mamas will definitely benefit from. These make for the perfect gift (because she really doesn't need another swaddle or bib) or a really nice way to treat yourself to some self-care and healing after your own belly birth.
Final Note:
By raising awareness and providing natural wellness solutions, we can support mothers during the postpartum period and promote healing, empowerment, and well-being. Let's honour the journey of cesarean birth mothers and celebrate their strength, resilience, and love for their precious little ones. And continue to tell positive stories about amazing and empowering caesarean births. I you are a belly birth mama like myself and have any questions, or would like to connect and share your story, please know my virtual doors is always open
Love,
Carla
XOX
Photo credit: Sarah Brion at BRION PHOTOGRAPHY @brionphotography