As someone who has been through two C-sections myself, I know how daunting the experience can be. So, when I spoke with Dr. Sarah Mahmood—a senior registrar in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Liverpool Women’s Hospital—I was fascinated to hear how her perspective shifted after experiencing her own C-section as a patient. Sarah has performed hundreds of C-sections in her career, but earlier this year, she found herself on the other side of the operating table.

Her story is equal parts insightful, emotional, and empowering—a must-read for any mum navigating the unique challenges of a cesarean birth.

A Doctor Becomes a Patient

Sarah’s journey to a planned cesarean started with a diagnosis of placenta previa, a condition where the placenta lies too low for a safe vaginal delivery. While her first two children, Hiba and Ibrahim, were born vaginally, this time, a C-section was the safest option for both her and her baby.

“I knew the procedure inside and out from a medical perspective,” Sarah shared. “But being on the patient side is completely different. It’s humbling, nerve-wracking, and, honestly, a bit surreal.”

The Day of Surgery: A Mix of Nerves and Joy

Sarah described the day of her surgery as a whirlwind of emotions. Arriving at the hospital early, she went through the standard pre-op checklist. Only this time, it wasn’t her leading the team—it was her name being called out.

“It felt strange hearing the team go through the checks and realising I was the patient. It really hit me then,” she said.

Once in the operating room, Sarah received a spinal anesthetic to numb her body from the waist down.

“The moment the anesthetic started working, I felt this warm, rising sensation. Everything happened so quickly after that. Before I knew it, Yousef was born, and the team lowered the screen so I could see him.”

That magical moment brought tears to her eyes, though she also experienced some unexpected shoulder pain during the procedure—a common occurrence linked to nerve irritation.

The Reality of Recovery

Like so many of us, Sarah was surprised by how much help she needed during the early days of recovery.

“Even as a doctor, I underestimated the physical toll of a cesarean. Just sitting up in bed or breastfeeding was a challenge. My husband was amazing—he helped me move around and made sure I was comfortable.”

She was encouraged to start moving within a few hours of surgery, something that initially felt impossible but ultimately helped her heal faster.

“It’s so important to trust the advice of your medical team,” Sarah said. “Mobilising early reduces the risk of complications like blood clots, even if it feels tough at first.”

Pain management played a big role in those early days, too. Sarah made sure to set alarms for her medication so she could stay ahead of the discomfort.

“I took a combination of paracetamol, ibuprofen, and dihydrocodeine for about a week, which helped me stay mobile without being overwhelmed by pain.”

The Emotional Journey

What struck me most about Sarah’s story was her honesty about the emotional side of recovery.

“There’s a vulnerability that comes with being a patient,” she admitted. “I’m used to being in control, so learning to accept help and go at my own pace was a new experience for me.”

She also described how the sensation around her scar was altered—something many of us can relate to.

“It’s normal to feel nervous about touching the scar at first. But over time, I found that gently massaging it helped me feel more connected to my body and more confident in my recovery.”

Proactive Scar Care: A Game-Changer

About five weeks postpartum, Sarah began scar massage using the oil from my CSection Correction Recovery kit. At first, she was hesitant.

“There’s always that fear of causing pain or doing something wrong, but I knew the benefits were worth it. Scar massage can reduce adhesions and improve the appearance of the scar.”

She also used silicone strips, which she found incredibly effective for minimising redness and flattening the scar.

“Together, the massage and silicone strips made a huge difference. My scar looks so much better now, and it’s far more comfortable.”

Support Garments: Confidence in Recovery

As a mum of three, Sarah couldn’t afford to take long stretches of rest. One tool that made her life easier was the support garment from my recovery kit.

“The garment was a lifesaver,” she said. “It provided core and pelvic support, which made everyday tasks like bending and lifting manageable. It also gave me a sense of security, like my body was protected while it healed.”

Advice from One Mum to Another

Sarah’s journey offers so much wisdom for mums preparing for or recovering from a C-section. Here are her key takeaways:

1. Be Proactive: Don’t wait for issues to arise. Take control of your recovery with tools like scar massage, silicone strips, and support garments.
2. Listen to Your Body: Healing takes time. Rest when you need it, and don’t rush the process.
3. Ask for Help: Whether it’s from family, friends, or your medical team, don’t hesitate to lean on others.
4. Hydration and Nutrition Matter: Staying hydrated and eating well are essential for your body to heal properly.

A New Perspective

For Sarah, experiencing a C-section as a patient has transformed the way she approaches her work as a doctor.

“I’ve always cared deeply for my patients, but now I truly understand the emotional and physical challenges they face. It’s given me a new level of empathy and insight.”

Her final message to mums is one of hope and encouragement:

“Every recovery journey is unique. Be kind to yourself, take it one day at a time, and trust that you’re stronger than you think.”

Sarah’s story is a testament to the power of proactive care and the importance of sharing our experiences. If you’re preparing for a C-section, let her words guide you—and know that you’re not alone on this journey.

Looking for the Same Recovery Tools Sarah Used?

For her recovery, Sarah chose the CSection Correction Recovery kit—a proven solution trusted by The Kensington Wing, Chelsea & Westminster Hospital and the NHS Foundation Trust. This comprehensive kit includes everything Sarah mentioned, from the scar massage oil to silicone strips and the supportive garment.

If you want to use the same recovery kit Sarah relied on, you can get it here.

Want to read more? I’ve shared my own story of navigating C-section recovery, including the lessons I learned between my first and second births. Read about my C-section recovery journey here.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and tips to support your postpartum recovery. Together, we can navigate this path with strength and confidence. 🖤

Watch the full interview here: