I did elective c section at a private hospital!
Just wanted to offer a different perspective as I think the experience can be quite varied across individual. You really won't know how your body would take the pain until you actually go through it.
I was petrified because this was the first time I had a surgery and prepared for the worst. But I walked to the washroom on my own from 24 hours after surgery onwards. Didn't even wake my husband when I needed the washroom in the middle of the night because I felt rest was important for him, since he'd need to do a lot of the chores when we get home with baby. By the time I was discharged at postpartum day 4, I was walking normally - just slower. Not because painful but because I was just cautious of not rupturing anything.
I'd say the only major pain for me was when I sneezed / laughed right after surgery hahaha this one momentarily feels like the stitches rip LOL but it goes away when you stop la hahaha
Just be sure to keep on top of your meds as per prescribed, even when you "feel" like your pain isn't bad. And because experiences can be so varied, my takeaway is that mental prep was way more important than anything else. Having a plan for recovery, leaning on social support systems to help with baby, using coping skills to be calm etc.!!
Wrt breastfeeding, I think the bigger concern is that your mature milk will come in later (3-5 days postpartum) for c section. My colostrum wasn't enough and baby was also frustrated at learning how to breastfeed when hungry so that was anxiety provoking. Hospital gave formula to supplement while I continued to hand express and store in syringes for the nurses to feed. I also dealt with latching issues so I ended up exclusive pumping when I arrived home.
Wishing you all the best with your delivery and take care!
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