Travel advice after csection...?

cmost227316

I have a close friends wedding about 3 weeks after my second baby's scheduled csection. What are your thoughts on traveling either driving (12 hours) or flying (2hours) 3 weeks postpartum? I had a tough recovery with my first csection, but don't remember the timing of recovery. Thanks!

Gingermom15

Both methods of travel sound horrendous 3 weeks after a CS

phillipsbr

I think driving actually sounds like the better choice since you won't have to trek around an airport with luggage and can just sit for the whole trip. I think I had a pretty hard recovery too but 3 weeks out I was pretty close to normal. Physically tired and weak but nothing crazy. 

navyblueladybug

After about 2 weeks I was back to functioning... I guess that's why they give you an extra 2 weeks off work if you have a section. I would drive so you can take breaks if you want and if you start to feel sick or something, at least you aren't around a bunch of other people. Running around an airport doesn't sound great. The flight is only 2 hours but give an hour or more to get to the airport, plus waiting for bags, renting a car... It'll end up being a 5-6 hour experience, and that's if the plane is on time. Not worth it in my eyes. 

Court11152325

Do whatever requires the least amount of effort on your part. You may be feeling more yourself at that point, but you'll be recovering from major surgery and have a 3 week old. You're going to be really tired, probably still have some pain here and there, and you'll have a young baby in tow (I assume). Honestly I would stay home. Neither sounds like something I would have wanted to do 5 weeks ago, let alone now with an 8 week old and mostly recovered minus some residual aches now.

cmost227316

You are all great! I have spoken with her, I was supposed to be in the wedding... But unfortunately told her that was not going to work. I need to let her know if I will be there soon. It is a hard decision! Thanks again!

Court11152325

It sucks to miss weddings of close friends, but you will really need to prioritize yourself and baby at that point. You could also talk to your doctor about what they think. 

mltarrio

I have to say that for me, I would not be up for attending a wedding next door at 3 weeks, let alone one 12 hours away. But I have heard the recovery from a scheduled c section is really different than when you have been in labor for a few days and end up with an emergency c section, so maybe that makes a difference? If it's important to you I am sure you can make it happen, but I also think your friend will understand if you can't be there. 

sardavbak

Have you asked the pediatrician? Mine said to avoid flying if possible for the first few months because of the germs ... Just a thought. I had a scheduled c-section and there is no way I would have been ready (emotionally or physically) to travel that far away with a newborn. I would pass on attending the wedding, your friend will understand 

BP1979

Nope, I wouldn't go! I could hardly walk one block three weeks out from my c section. Not to mention having a 3 week old baby who has no immunity yet. I just traveled this week with my 11 week old, and although it was doable, it was a LOT of work to plan for everything he might need! And a lot of work to haul everything in/out of hotel room,  etc.  Plus, you run the risk of busting your stitches open and that would really suck! As hard as it is, I think you have to prioritize your recovery and your new baby. If it was me, I'd stay home. 

angelicac06

I was perfectly fine after 3 weeks. The idea of a 12 hour drive is awful to me without the surgery. A 2 hour flight is more than doable! Wear comfy clothes, watch 1 movie and youre at your destination! Just have someone go with you to carry your stuff. I would totally do the flight. Goodluck!

redfallon

I think if you're having to question it, I'd err on the side of No. 

belle750017

I'd totally do it!  I travelled a number of hours 5 weeks after c section and it was fine. After 3 weeks I remember being almost back to normal. As long as there's someone to carry your stuff! either could work!