New research suggests that mothers who give birth by C-section (cesarean delivery) are more likely to have two major problems afterward: severe pain that disrupts sleep and daily activities, and a higher chance of developing sleep problems. This study, presented at the ANESTHESIOLOGY 2025 annual meeting, highlights a crucial issue. People often forget how important sleep is when a mother is recovering. Sleep is key to a new mother's mental and physical health. The severe pain and lack of sleep linked to C-sections can cause big issues like postpartum depression, trouble thinking and remembering things, and extreme tiredness. All of this can make it harder for the mother to bond with her baby and have good relationships with family. What Is A C-Section Birth? According to Mayo Clinic, a C-section aka (cesarean delivery), is a surgery used to deliver a baby. It involves making surgical cuts (incisions) in the mother's belly and uterus to take the baby out. A C-section may be planned ahead of time if the mother has certain complications during pregnancy, or if she has already had a C-section before. However, for a mother's first baby, the decision to do a C-section is usually made after labor has already started. If you are pregnant, understanding the reasons for a C-section and what to expect during recovery can help you feel more prepared. Health professionals might recommend a C-section for several important reasons. A C-section may be needed if labor stalls, the baby is under stress, or is in an unusual position (breech/transverse). Other reasons include carrying multiples, problems like placenta previa or cord prolapse, a physical blockage, the mother's serious health issues, or a past C-section. How Is Health Affected After Childbirth? The research included two main parts: talking to mothers (qualitative analysis) and analyzing a large database (quantitative analysis). For the first part, researchers interviewed 41 new mothers about their pain and sleep. They found a striking difference based on the delivery method: Over two-thirds of mothers who had a C-section (both planned and unplanned) reported severe pain that made it hard to sleep and do daily tasks. In comparison, only 8% of mothers who had a vaginal birth reported this level of severe, disruptive pain. Can You Develop A Sleeping Disorder After C-Section? For the second part of the study, researchers looked at a national insurance database containing information from more than 1.5 million mothers who gave birth between 2008 and 2021. This analysis showed that mothers who had a C-section were 16% more likely to be diagnosed with a new sleep disorder (such as insomnia, sleep deprivation, or sleep apnea) between one month and one year after delivery, compared to those who delivered vaginally. The lead author, Moe Takenoshita, M.B.B.Ch., from Stanford University, stressed the importance of managing pain well, especially for C-section recovery, since untreated pain worsens sleep. To help improve sleep, mothers can try several measures: Manage pain adequately with medication.Exercise regularly (as soon as it’s safe to do so).Sleep when the baby sleeps (napping during the day).Avoid caffeine or alcohol late in the day.Relax before bed with activities like taking a bath or practicing deep breathing.Dr. Takenoshita noted that about one-third of all U.S. births are C-sections. She advised that anyone planning a C-section should understand the link to more severe pain and a higher risk of sleep problems. She urged all new mothers with sleep issues to discuss their concerns with their doctor for advice or a referral to a specialist.
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