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Postpartum diarrhea, or diarrhea after cesarean section, is a common problem for mothers. It makes taking care of your newborn more difficult. Diarrhea in itself is already draining. On top of that, you worry that it might affect the quality of your breastmilk. This article will help you navigate this challenge. Continue reading to learn what to do and what tools you can use.
What is Postpartum Diarrhea?
Postpartum diarrhea, also known as postnatal diarrhea, is a condition experienced by mothers after giving birth. This causes you to have loose or watery stools. The cause could be stress, a weakened immune system, or even infections. Furthermore, if you eat food that lacks nutritional value or is hard to digest, it may also make you experience postpartum diarrhea.
Is Diarrhea a Sign of Infection After a C-Section
No, it is not a sign of infection after a C-section. However, it is a side effect. You will likely be given antibiotics after a C-section to reduce the risk of infection. Unfortunately, this can cause changes in your bowel movement. As such, you can say that postpartum diarrhea after C-section and infections are related, but not in the way that you thought.
Here are the actual signs of infection after a C-section:
- You experience severe pain
- Your wound becomes redder and swollen
- There is heavy bleeding in your vagina
- You feel pain when you are peeing
- Your urine is leaking
- There is a discharge from your wound
- There is swelling or pain in your lower leg
What Causes Diarrhea After a C-Section?
There are three possible causes of diarrhea after a C-section: medication, a difficult labor, or pregnancy itself.
As we have mentioned above, you can have diarrhea after a C-section as a side effect of medication. Antibiotics target both good and bad bacteria. That said, the removal of good bacteria will allow the harmful bacteria that weren't eliminated to grow. This can upset your stomach.
But aside from that, difficult labor could also be a cause. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), difficult labor can cause diarrhea. C-section is sometimes recommended to make it easier for the mother. That makes having a difficult labor and postpartum diarrhea related.
Last, pregnancy itself can be the cause of diarrhea. It causes a lot of changes in your body. After childbirth, these changes will revert. For example, your uterus will return to its normal size. It causes uterine contractions, and that may trigger looser or frequent stools.
What Can You Do About Postpartum Diarrhea?
You should do the same things you do when you have diarrhea. First, choose bland foods. Refilling your tummy is important because diarrhea will empty it often. Likewise, you should replace the fluids and salts that you lose. As such, you also need to drink plenty of water.
You can also consider changing the antibiotics that you are taking. But before you do, please consult a medical professional.
If possible, you should also stay close to your bathroom. That can prevent panicking when you feel like your stool is about to escape your body. It also prevents accidents. Remember that you just gave birth – you are still recovering, and diarrhea also drains you. Being near the bathroom helps you conserve energy.
Can I Breastfeed If I Have Diarrhea?
Yes, you can still breastfeed if you have diarrhea. The organisms that cause it do not pass through breast milk. Therefore, it will not affect your baby. However, it will have a huge effect on you. Both diarrhea and breastfeeding are draining. As such, you really need to drink lots of water to prevent dehydration.
Regarding medications, fluoroquinolones and macrolides are commonly used to treat diarrhea. The problem is that these are excreted through breast milk. Thus, consult a doctor first before use. Also, avoid using bismuth subsalicylate because salicylate can pass through breast milk. It can cause a life-threatening disorder.
Tools and Tips for Postpartum Caring
Here, we will provide you with tips and tools that can help you recover. These will help you navigate the challenges caused by postpartum diarrhea.
Momcozy Postpartum Panties
Postpartum panties have features specifically designed for the needs of moms who have just given birth. The Momcozy Pregnancy Panties, for example, feature a V-shaped low waist design. This offers support without compression, easing lower belly pressure. Furthermore, it is gentle on your C-section scars. Comfortable underwear helps you reduce the stress caused by postpartum diarrhea.
Momcozy Recovery Belly Band
The Momcozy Postpartum Recovery Belly Band is the brand's first postpartum recovery belly wrap. It is built on the Ergonest Support Structure™, which provides great lower back support. It is made of soft, skin-safe material with holes that allow air to flow freely. That said, it is very comfortable to use. Yes, this product will not treat your diarrhea. However, it will make your postpartum life a lot less stressful.
Keep Yourself Clean
Cleanliness will protect you from diseases. However, diarrhea can make you messy. Thus, put more effort into keeping yourself clean. You should ensure your anal area is clean. On top of that, you should prepare a change of clothes and underwear in advance. Change as soon as possible.
Eat a High-Fiber Diet
You should change your diet to treat diarrhea. Do not consume food or beverages that can cause fecal incontinence. That includes alcoholic drinks, caffeinated food and drinks, and dairy products. Instead, choose high-fiber foods. Dietary fibers absorb water and add bulk to your stool. This helps prevent the runny stool that's associated with diarrhea.
FAQs About Diarrhea After a C-section
Here are other things you should know about diarrhea post-c-section:
Is It Normal To Have Some Blood in Stool After a C-Section?
Having some blood in the stool after a c-section is not unheard of. Many women get hemorrhoids in the first few days after childbirth. It causes rectal bleeding, which adds blood to your stool. To treat this, ask your medical provider for hemorrhoid cream or suppository recommendations. Also, use soft toilet paper to prevent worsening of the bleeding.
Is It Common To Have Diarrhea After a C-section?
It is common for a mother to experience diarrhea after a C-section. So, do not overthink it if it happens to you. It is normal. Focus your energy on ensuring you have enough energy for your tasks, like breastfeeding and playing with your baby. Drink plenty of water, have nutritious meals, and rest when you can. Follow your doctor's advice, and you can get through this problem.
What Are The Symptoms of Bowel Problems After a C-section?
The symptoms of bowel problems after a C-section include:
Abdominal pain: You experience severe abdominal pain. Suppose you have taken pain medication, but it is not going away. That is a symptom of bowel problems.
Fever and infection: You get fevers when there is something wrong with your body. That said, it is a symptom of bowel problems. You should also look for signs of infection. That includes discharge or redness around the incision area.
Vomiting: Vomiting is a telltale sign that there is something wrong with your digestive system. This is often accompanied by unexplained nausea.
Bloating and distension: Noticeable abdominal bloating and distension.
Changes in your bowel habits: Diarrhea and constipation are two opposite things, but they have something in common. They both indicate that there is a bowel problem. Besides these two, you should also check for blood in your stools.
Conclusion
Experiencing digestive issues after a C-section is a common problem for mothers. Many times, it is caused by the antibiotics that are recommended to prevent infection. Combined with all that you need to do for your newborn, it can make your postpartum life very stressful.
That said, you should know what to do in case you experience diarrhea after a C-section. Prepare lots of drinking water and have a change of clothes and underwear always ready. Doing so ensures that you are clean and well-hydrated.
