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I know that it is recommended by the doctors that you don't drive for six weeks after having a c-section, does anyone know what the reasons behind this are? I know a number of women who have driven sooner, but my DH is adamant about it at this time. The way I figure it, when you feel up to it, you are up to it, but am I missing some piece of logic as to why I shouldn't drive?
Kerrie
Kerrie
I think it's because a) some CTP is invalid for a certain period of time after major surgery and b) the muscles that are extended and contracted in your abdomen when you lift your foot/feet when you drive have something to do with the surgical incision.
So that's why it's suggested you don't drive. I, however, drove from day 6 - there was no way anyone could talk me out of driving down to Brisbane to see my son in the NICU.
The other thing is if you have car insurance and you have an accident, you are not covered during that first 6 weeks. So its a risk in that way too.
I know its a PIA :evil: Not sure of medical reasons though, I figured it was to do with healing as was heavy lifting etc?
*hugs*
Cailin
It's a bit of a bugger if you actually need to use a car to get anywhere. I think the insurance companies should be modifying this silly rule as well as the hospitals. They may as well go back to the dark ages and keep us all in bed for 6 weeks after any birth :)
Mistyfying, what is CTP?
Kerrie
I think she means compulsary third party insurance ?
Could be wrong though LOL!
*hugs*
Cailin
yes I meant compulsory third party insurance, sorry
Like Mistyflying has said they cut through a major muscle which is the muscle you use to brake so to be safe and avoid a maybe accident they say not to drive plus if you are involved in an accident and the insurance company finds out you`ve been recently operated on your insurance may be void.
Our physio told us it was to do with the muscle wall that is cut & not being able to have control over it, so if you need to brake suddenly then there could be a delay etc and strain put on that muscle.
Not sure of the technical reasons, but my GF has just had here 4th c-section and she's always been driving within 10-14 days.
But she does have 7 kids NOW!! #-o
Hi - I rang my insurance company after having a CS with Cait and they said whatever the doctor said and I'm sure he said 4-6 weeks.
I think I drove after about 10 days - emergency dash to kmart for dummies.
barb.
I drove after a couple of weeks too! I had to.
I had to get to the MCHN for starters AND I was booked into the day stay program to see a lactation specialist across town. How was I meant to get there? By osmosis?
My Mum also drove straight after her c-sections too. She had to take older children to kinder etc. etc.
I had heard previously that it was 6 weeks..however on my list of what not to do that i was given on discharge from the hospital it said no driving for at least 2 weeks which puts it more in perspective....who can not go driving for 6 weeks???
Jo
My doc didn't even mention the no driving after c/s thing.I think that I'll be driving again once my staples are out which is 7 days after.I just couldn't handle sitting at home again not being able to drive anywhere.I think once you fell able to handle driving, but everyone heals differently.
Thanks for all your replies, girls, it makes me feel a lot better knowing more about it all. I'm hearing all these stories of women who have c-sections and are 'up and about the next day' with a little envy, I'm taking a very long time to heal and just have to be patient.
I think part of it is that I spent the last six weeks on bedrest because my stomach muscles gave out, part of it is because of 24 hours labour using muscles that were already fatigued, and THEN a c-section on top of it that has caused all the damage! My stomach feels so squishy and spongy, I can't wait for the muscles to regain some tone.
Ah well, at least the cause of all this trouble is worth it! I don't know that I'd be willing to go through it again, but Max is certainly a good reward for all the pain!
Kerrie
well I waited 6 weeks with all my c/s because I figured the less damage done and the better recovery the more you can go on to have no problems or complications with the next one. Mu friend always drove 10-14 days later and have infections with all three,,,coincidence? Who knows but who wants to push the boundaries..
I was very lucky my DH works shift work and has 4 days on and 4 days off so he could drive me around and do stuff for me...
Jan xx
I drove really early...not even going to mention how short the time was.
LOL me too Bec.................I was very naughty and drove really soon after!
I waited the full 6 weeks, same as Jan I figured it was better for my recovery.