What to Wear After a C-Section: Wardrobe Tips for New Moms

Bringing life into the world is an extraordinary experience, and a c-section birth is no exception. While you’re eager to meet your little one, preparing for your comfort and recovery is equally important. Learning what to wear after a c-section can be a good start, which will help your body heal. Read our quick lists of post c-section clothes to add to your wardrobe.

What to Wear in Hospital After C-Section 

C-section mums may need to be especially mindful of the clothes they should wear after surgery. The key to comfort is light and loose clothing that allows your skin to breathe and your body to move freely without irritating your incision

What to Wear During the Day after C-Section

The first few days after surgery can be when pain is at its peak. You'll want to avoid bottoms with buttons, snaps, and zippers, as these may irritate your C-section incision. Instead, focus on comfortable and worthwhile pieces during recovery:

1. Postpartum Recovery Shorts or Leggings

Postpartum Recovery Garments like c-section recovery tights or c-section recovery shorts are an essential wardrobe piece, specially designed to provide support and stability after recovery. Healthcare professionals recommend recovery garments to improve postpartum mobility and pelvic muscle function by delivering targeted compression. This is ideal for treating multiple conditions like c-section wounds, abdominal muscle separation, and lower back pain. 

2. Maternity Wear

Maternity wear is another staple you can add to your closet. Maternity wear items are loose and versatile clothing used for many occasions. They are ideal for your C-section area and shrinking abdomen. They come in many designs and styles, such as the pull-down or side-pull, making it much easier for you during feeding times.

3. Joggers or Tracksuit Bottoms

If you’re looking for more clothing options in addition to c-section recovery pants or leggings, soft shorts or joggers with wide waistbands and drawstrings are practical clothing choices for many reasons. They’re usually very stretchy to accommodate what’s left of your baby's belly, and the wide waistband gives extra comfort as you recover after your c-section. Depending on the style, soft shorts or joggers can be paired with a loose shirt and a cardigan for ultimate comfort.

4. Quality Robes

Treat yourself to a beautiful, quality robe you can wear in the hospital and at home after your c-section. Choose fabrics that suit the season, and it will be a worthwhile addition you can enjoy when you want something soft to quickly wrap around yourself. Robes are perfectly comfy and perfect for lounging with babies and nursing.

5. Overalls

Overalls are another good option as c-section clothing. It’s easy to wear and has no waistband that restricts your abdomen. When choosing a pair, be sure to pick breathable and soft fabrics to prevent any unwanted friction.

6. Slip on Shoes

While shoes may be the last thing on your list, a pair of slip-on shoes can go a long way to help you move around conveniently without having to bend, stretch, or lift for the first few weeks.

What to Wear at Night after C-Section

Comfortable sleepwear is essential for your recovery after surgery. Here are a few cosy options you can wear at night to rest better in between caring for your little one.

1. Nightgowns

With their lightweight fabric and loose fit, nightgowns are the perfect way to cosy up in bed. They provide the utmost comfort to help your incision heal. Some nightgowns are also designed for breastfeeding, giving you one less thing to worry about when feeding at night. Another added plus is that they come in various styles and materials, so it's easier to find one that matches your preferences.

2. Loose Pyjamas

Loose pyjamas can greatly enhance your quality of sleep. Opt for the same size  that you wore in your last trimester to allow more room for comfort. Select high-waisted bottoms to avoid irritating your incision. For the top, choose one that's easy to undo for convenient breastfeeding.

3. Postpartum Recovery Shorts or Leggings

While they're great for everyday wear, Postpartum Recovery Garments are also a perfectly fuss-free sleeping companion. These shorts and leggings are light and breathable while giving your body the support it needs while resting.

What to Wear Under your Clothes after C-Section

Aside from your everyday items, what you wear underneath your clothes matters too. Choosing the suitable fabric and fit can impact how you feel as well as how you heal during this time post-surgery.

1. Disposable C-Section Underwear

Disposable c-section underwear can help you feel more comfortable without worrying about your incision. Wear breathable, high-waisted options to prevent irritation to your wound. You can purchase some highly absorbent disposable pairs for your first few days of recovery.

2. Nursing Bras

Supportive breastfeeding or nursing bras are great for helping you stay comfortable and supported between feeding times. Most bras are designed without underwires, which makes them wearable for sleep. Nursing bras should also have enough space for breast pads. Even if you’re not breastfeeding, your milk will still come in after 2–3 days and may leak without breast pads to protect your clothes.

3. Compression Socks

Compression socks can be an added accessory to help you in your C-section recovery. Compression socks encourage venous return in your legs when you’re not moving around much. These can help you avoid swelling whenever you find yourself sitting for long periods of time while caring for your little one. If you are wearing a compression Recovery Legging, do not wear compression socks with it as the compression will be too high.

Choosing Clothes for Your Recovery

Your recovery is paramount. Pregnancy and a C-section are significant life events, and it's crucial to allow yourself the time and rest needed to heal. When choosing postpartum clothes, prioritise comfort. Opt for well-designed, light, and breathable recovery garments that support your healing process and provide the confidence to move freely throughout the day.

 FAQs

 1. What do moms need after a c-section?

From post c-section clothes to painkillers, here are a few things that can help you feel more comfortable after surgery: 

It also helps to consult your doctor beforehand for any additional essentials or questions you may have before undergoing your c-section. 

2. Is it okay to wear jeans after a c-section?

You can wear jeans after a c-section once your incision is fully healed. It usually takes about 6 to 8 weeks for an incision to heal completely. Allow yourself enough time to recover before wearing jeans so they can properly heal and reduce the risk of any discomfort or complications. 

3. What should I avoid wearing after a c-section?

Avoid bottoms with buttons, snaps, and zippers. These items can irritate your c-section incision. Loose clothes are a must-have for your post c-section wardrobe. Search for light, soft, and breathable pieces that will provide comfort and help you freely move while you heal.

4. When can I wear tight clothes after a c-section?

Everyone recovers differently. Wearing tight clothes will depend on how you take care of your body after it is done healing. In the meantime, choose recovery garments that will give you the support and comfort you need, especially in the months after your c-section. Supportive or compression garments, like the SRC c-section recovery shorts and leggings, should be worn in the first 3 months to help your body stay comfortable and move freely.