New research reveals that C-section births can lead to severe pain and sleepless nights, increasing the risks of depression and exhaustion. Experts warn that untreated symptoms could slow recovery, but there are ways to help.
Many new mothers expect sleepless nights after bringing home a baby, but those who undergo C-sections may face even greater challenges. Recent research has uncovered a strong link between cesarean deliveries and ongoing pain and sleep issues that can last for months. These findings highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing these problems early to support smoother recoveries for new moms.
The Hidden Toll of C-Sections on Sleep and Recovery
Researchers from Stanford presented new findings at the ANESTHESIOLOGY 2025 conference, showing that mothers who have C-sections are much more likely to struggle with severe pain and disrupted sleep after childbirth. These difficulties can interfere with daily life and make it hard for mothers to care for themselves and their babies.
In the study, 73% of women who had planned C-sections and 67% who had unplanned C-sections reported severe pain that affected their sleep and daily activities. By comparison, only 8% of mothers who had vaginal deliveries experienced the same level of pain. The research also analyzed data from over 1.5 million births and found that C-section mothers were 16% more likely to be diagnosed with sleep disorders like insomnia, sleep deprivation, or sleep apnea within a year after giving birth.
According to Moe Takenoshita, M.B.B.Ch., “Sleep is often overlooked in postpartum recovery, but it is central to a mother’s physical and mental health.” The message is clear: sleep is a central part of both physical and mental health for new mothers.
Why Pain Management Can’t Wait
Unmanaged pain after a C-section can quickly turn into a cycle of sleeplessness and exhaustion. Dr. Takenoshita’s team interviewed 41 mothers and found that pain often kept them awake at night, which then made their pain feel even worse. However, there are practical steps that can help break this cycle and support better sleep and recovery.
- Take pain medication as recommended, don’t try to tough it out
- Rest when the baby is sleeping, even if chores are waiting
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol later in the day
- Relax before bed with a bath or deep breathing exercises
Dr. Takenoshita notes, “About one-third of U.S. births are C-sections.”
Gentle Movement Can Help
Light physical activity, like short walks or gentle stretches, may seem difficult after surgery, but it can make a difference. Small movements can support healing and help break the pattern of pain and sleeplessness, even if it’s just walking around the room or stretching while holding your baby.
The Bigger Picture: Sleep, Mental Health, and Recovery
Poor sleep after a C-section doesn’t just leave mothers feeling tired. It can increase the risk of postpartum depression and make it harder to bond with their babies or manage daily life. Exhaustion can lead to memory problems and strain relationships with partners, family, and friends.
One mother from the study described nights “drowning in pain” until her doctor helped her with better medication and sleep strategies. Just two weeks later, she said, “I finally felt human again.” Her experience shows that these problems are not rare, but they can be addressed with the right support.
Future research may look at why C-sections disrupt sleep more than vaginal births. Some experts suggest that it could be due to longer recovery times or the stress of surgery, while others believe hormone changes may play a role. For now, the message is simple: sleep is essential for recovery, and new mothers need help to get enough rest.
Dr. Takenoshita says, “Those who are planning a C-section should understand that the procedure is linked to more severe pain after delivery and a higher risk of sleep disorders. Anyone having sleep problems during pregnancy or after childbirth should discuss their concerns with their physician, who can evaluate the issue, make recommendations and refer them to a specialist if necessary.”
Looking Ahead for New Mothers
The medical community is starting to pay more attention to sleep problems after C-sections. Hospitals may soon begin screening all C-section mothers for sleep disorders, and insurance providers could expand coverage for treatments. Most importantly, mothers are learning that it’s okay to ask for help instead of suffering in silence.
Dr. Takenoshita offers encouragement: “Every mom deserves rest. If you’re struggling, speak up. We have tools to help, but we can’t read minds.” Better sleep and pain management can make a big difference in the lives of new mothers, helping them recover more quickly and enjoy time with their babies.