“How long after a C-section can you get pregnant?” is a common question many parents have when the doctor suggests C-section delivery. Pregnancy and having babies are wonderful times of life. Some women may like to plan their next child as soon as possible. However, you may wait longer than normal to get pregnant again after a C-section. Pregnancy is possible anytime when your cycle returns in the postpartum period. However, the uterus may need a longer gap to heal well after an incision. Read on to know how soon you can plan your next pregnancy after a C-section delivery.
What Should Be The Time Gap Between Pregnancies After A C-Section?
After a C-section, it is good to wait from at least six months to one year. A technical report by the World Health Organization recommends that the mother should ideally have a gap of 24 months to “reduce the risk of adverse maternal, perinatal and infant outcomes” (1). This recommendation holds good both for C-section and vaginal deliveries. It gives enough time for the wounds to heal. Also, if you conceive in less than six months after a C-section, you might be at a higher risk of uterine rupture in the case of vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC) (2). Moreover, spacing gives you time to bond with your baby and take care of them. However, planning your next pregnancy is a personal decision, which you may want to take in discussion with your partner and doctor, based on your health.
Why Is A Time Gap Required For Pregnancy After A C-Section?
Your body takes a longer time to heal from a C-section than from a vaginal birth. Here is why you need a gap after the surgery:
Cesarean section is a major abdominal surgery and the recovery time varies from one woman to another. The more time you give for recovery, the fewer chances of any complications during your next delivery.
If you have had complications in your earlier pregnancy, then you might want to wait before planning the next baby.
Your body loses a lot of nutrients while delivering through a C-section; therefore it needs time to replenish them. Your abdominal muscles lose some of their tone during a C-section. Therefore, enough time should be given for complete recovery. Image: iStock
Practically, it will be difficult for you to take good care of yourself while also nurturing your infant.
You are also prone to certain health risks if you get pregnant immediately after a C-section.
What Are The Risks Associated With Getting Pregnant Soon After A C- Section?
Getting pregnant soon after a C-section can put you at an increased risk of: You might want to get pregnant quickly after your C-section as you might fear that a gap would weaken your chances of pregnancy. Read on to know what you can do about it.
How To Boost The Chances Of Getting Pregnant After A C-Section?
Here are a few things that will help you conceive naturally after having a C-section. Your chances of getting pregnant come down as you age. If you are in your late thirties or forties, you may not want to wait long for having your next baby. In such cases, you might begin your efforts as early as possible, after consulting your healthcare provider. A C-section is a major surgery wherein your body loses a lot of blood. It takes time for your body to get back on track and restart the reproduction process. So, wait for some time and plan your next pregnancy only after you are physically and mentally ready to take the plunge again.
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had at least one vaginal delivery.
are younger than 35 years of age (6).
had a low transverse incision (a horizontal cut near the pubic hairline) during the first C-section (7).
had the previous C-section due to the baby’s health conditions such as abnormal fetal heart rate or a breach in position. do not have any underlying health issues such as diabetes (gestational or pre-existing), blood pressure, or active genital herpes.
