study compares the outcomes of feeding mothers early (4 hours ) after cesarean section compared to delayed feeding (on post operation day 1) in terms of gastrointestinal function and maternal satisfaction with the feeding schedule.

patients who are scheduled to undergo elective cesarean section are randomised to two groups, one group will be allowed to feed 4 hours after cesarean section while the other group will be fed traditionally by feeding on the first post op day. gastrointestinal signs and symptoms will be measured such as post operative ileus, vomiting, nausea, abdminal distension. other parameters to be measured include time to ambulate out of bed after surgery, time to start breastfeeding after surgery. satisfaction with both feeding regimes will be assessed after surgery and the incedence of wound infecion will be compared between the two groups after two weeks durung the post natal review.

Inclusion Criteria:

Uncomplicated elective Cesarean sections performed under regional anaesthesia without extensive intra operative bowel adhesions.

Women who give consent to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Elective Cesarean sections complicated by severe haemorrhage, bowel injury requiring bowel manipulation, repair, resection and anastomosis or colostomy.

Women who require a Cesarean hysterectomy. Women who require a Post-partum hysterectomy. Mothers with severe pre-eclampsia. Mothers with sickle cell disease. Mothers with pregestational or gestational diabetes. Mothers who have been scheduled for Cesarean section and require general anaesthesia.

Women who have had a previous laparotomy other than a Cesarean section.