Stairs After C Section: Should You Take Them or Not?

Since a c-section is major surgery, you should give your body time to recover.

This also applies to climbing stairs after c section.

In fact, doctors recommend not climbing stairs for at least 6 weeks after the surgery so that your body has time to heal completely.

Of course, there may be situations where you have no choice but to take the stairs. So, let’s take a look at how you can do it safely.

Is Climbing stairs good after C-section?

Climbing stairs is a good way to get back in shape after giving birth, but it’s not recommended during the first six weeks after c-section. After that time period, you can start climbing stairs without any risk of exertion or injury.

How Long After Cesarean can I Climb Stairs?

It is not recommended to climb stairs for 6 weeks after a c-section. That is because it takes 6-7 weeks for the body to completely heal after caesarean surgery.

A woman on Quora reported:

“I went home 50 hours after surgery. I had to climb the stairs (18 total) to get to my room. The doctor said it was fine. By the time I reached on top, I was in mild discomfort mostly due to exertion. Hold on to the rails, put both feet on each stair one after the other, as opposed to the normal way we climb. Have someone behind you in case you need support. The doctor said I was okay to do this provided I do not keep going up and down the first 6–7 days. I tried to avoid this for around 8–10 days…but I was completely capable of doing so.”

However, caesarean and recovery times are different for every woman, so it is important to listen to your doctor’s advice about when you can start climbing stairs again.

Can I climb stairs after 3 weeks of c section?

Most doctors will tell you that you should not over-exert yourself for about six weeks after surgery. This includes climbing stairs or participating in other strenuous activities.
Speak to your doctor to see if you can take the stairs sooner.

Why Does It Take So Long After Cesarean To Climb Stairs?

After giving birth via c-section, it is important to take things slowly when it comes to putting your body under pressure. This is because during the first 6-7 weeks after a c-section, your incision is more at risk of opening up.

However, if you must take the stairs, there are some things you can do to make it safer, such as walking slowly or asking family members for help if needed.

5 Tips for Climbing Stairs After C Section

Avoiding the stairs is not always feasible, but, in that case, you need to be careful as t avoid injury.

If you are extremely cautious and take the necessary precautions, then you will be able to climb the stairs, as long as your doctor confirms.

Here are some tips:

1. Ask for help

When you’re still healing from major surgery, don’t be afraid to ask for help getting up and down the stairs.

Ask your partner to take the stairs with you to ensure you have the support you need.

2. Hire a Postpartum Doula

A postpartum doula is a professional who specialises in working with new mothers following childbirth.

If you live on your own or simply do not have anyone who can be with you at home all day, a postpartum doula can help you with your day-to-day chores as you recover.

3. Take your time

Your postpartum body needs time to heal, so it is important that you take your time and do things one step at a time.

For example, you should climb the stairs slowly, and you should avoid carrying heavy objects up and down the stairs as it will affect your body’s healing process and may cause you injuries.

4. Use the handrail while taking the stairs after c section

In all honesty, this is something we should all do to ensure we do not fall down the stairs. So, this is even more crucial as your body recovers after your surgery.

Exertion and dizziness can lead to falls, so make sure you hold the handrail at all times.

5. Make sure the stairs are clear of dangerous objects

Tripping can cause your c-section incision to open, so make sure there are no dangerous objects on the stairs that could cause you to fall.

6. Bring necessary supplies downstairs 

Ask someone to bring all the supplies you need downstairs.

Having your baby’s wipes and diapers downstairs will help you save a few stairs trips! 

7. Contact your doctor if you fall

If you fall down the stairs, make sure you make an appointment with your doctor to check that you have not incurred any internal injury.

An open wound can attract bacteria and, in turn, lead to infection.

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

  • Foul discharge from your vagina
  • Redness or swelling where the c-section wound is
  • Heavy vaginal bleeding
  • A high temperature
  • Chest pain, unusual breasts pain, or difficulty breathing
  • Unusual pain in your incision

Conclusion

It is always best to check with your doctor before starting any type of exercise postpartum; this includes climbing stairs after c section.

Taking the stairs should be avoided for at least 6 weeks, but with the right precautions, you should be able to take the stairs without any issues.

But do not force yourself to take the stairs if your body is unable to handle the effort!