Neurodiversity information for parents and young people
After a ceasarean
After a caesarean birth, we recommend the following.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothes and cotton underwear (which can breathe).
- Gently clean and dry the wound every day with water.
- Look out for signs of possible wound infection, such as increased pain, redness, discharge or fever. If you notice these signs, discuss them with your midwife.
Some everyday activities will not be possible right away. Only start these activities when you feel able, and it is not painful:
- driving
- carrying heavy things
- exercise
- sexual intercourse.
For more information, see the Kingston Hospital Your Pregnancy Care booklet (postnatal section).
Speak to your midwife if you have questions, including why you have had a caesarean.
Future pregnancy
We advise you to wait at least 12 to 18 months before trying for another baby. This will allow the scar on your womb to heal properly.
Caesarean or vaginal birth
If you become pregnant again, your maternity team can offer guidance on whether to choose a caesarean or vaginal birth. Their advice will take into account:
- your preference
- the risks and benefits of another caesarean birth
- the risks and benefits of a vaginal birth after caesarean birth.
If you had a caesarean birth when the cervix (neck of womb) was fully dilated (10 cms), tell your maternity team when you are booking for future pregnancy.
This information will help them to arrange health checks (such as cervical ultrasound) when you become pregnant again.
These health checks are important, because women who have had a caesarean birth are slightly more likely to give birth earlier than expected (preterm) in future pregnancies.
More information
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) on birth after a previous caesarean
Contact information
Maternity Triage
Telephone: