Depending upon the method of birth, your doctor will let you know when it's okay to shower or bathe. Cesarean births and vaginal births are very different and each requires special care. Your body needs a certain period of time to heal before you can enjoy a long, relaxing bath or before you can enter swimming pools or hot tubs. Ask your doctor when it's okay to perform these activities, especially if you have stitches.
Types
Depending upon the birthing method, your aftercare will vary. Most women deliver vaginally while other women may require a cesarean section, also known as a C-section. Your birthing experience will determine which method of delivery is best for you and your baby. Your doctor will recommend which way you should deliver your baby and he will also go over the risks of both methods.
Vaginal Birth
After a vaginal birth, your doctor may have you take sitz baths a few times per day, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Typically, doctors ask patients not to take a bath for at least 24 hours after delivery. If necessary, you may shower during that 24-hour period or just take sitz baths if you don't have the strength to take a shower. Bathing too soon can tear stitches and pose a possibility of infections.
Cesarean Birth
Cesarean births require a little more care than vaginal births due to the nature of the incision. During a cesarean birth, your doctor will make an incision between your pubic region and lower stomach. The incision may require stitches or staples, and sometimes both. Anytime your doctor has to perform an episiotomy or cesarean incision, it increases the risk of infection. To decrease the risk of infection, baths are not recommended until the incision is healed. You can take showers until your doctor gives you clearance to take baths.
Considerations
Bathing too soon can result in infection. Infection is the number one concern doctors have for women who have just given birth. Sitting in dirty bath water increases your risk of developing an infection where your stitches or staples are. Your doctor will send you home with specific bathing instructions to help reduce risks of infection.
Prevention/Solution
To help heal your wound, always apply fresh bandages if needed. Avoid hot tubs and public swimming pools until your bleeding has stopped and your incision has healed. Typically, the average time frame for complete healing of your incision is about six weeks, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The faster your incision heals, the less likely infection can set in and the sooner you can take a warm, relaxing bath.
