Introduction
The first six weeks after childbirth are referred to as the postpartum phase. This is a happy time for mothers, but it is also a time of adjustment and healing. You’ll bond with your baby and have a post-delivery visit with your doctor during these weeks. Getting back to normal following the birth of a child can be difficult, especially if you’re a new mother.
Although it is critical to look after your infant, you must also look after yourself. Most new mothers do not return to work for at least the first six weeks after giving birth. This gives you time to adjust and create a new normal. Because a baby needs to be fed and changed frequently, you may have sleepless evenings. It can be aggravating and exhausting. The best part is that you will eventually settle into a routine. Here, we give you some tips on maintaining your postpartum health after delivery.
Postpartum health care
- To deal with exhaustion and fatigue, get as much sleep as possible. Your infant may need to be fed every two to three hours. Sleep when your baby naps to ensure you’re receiving adequate rest.
- Do not be hesitant to accept aid from family and friends during and after postpartum time. Your body requires relaxation, and practical assistance around the house can help you achieve that rest. Friends or family members can help make meals, conduct errands, or look after the other kids in the house.
- Maintain a nutritious diet to aid with recovery. Increase your intake of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and protein. Also, especially if you’re breastfeeding, increase your hydration intake.
- Get some exercise. When it’s safe to exercise, your doctor will let you know. It should not be a strenuous exercise. Take a tour around your neighbourhood. A change of location is energising and might help you feel more energised.
- A new baby is a big transition for everyone in the family, and it might change the way you and your partner interact. You and your partner may spend less quality time together during the postpartum period, which can be problematic. Despite the fact that this is a difficult and emotional period, there are ways to deal. Be patient, to begin with. Recognize that every couple undergoes adjustments following the birth of a child. You’ll need some time to adjust, but you’ll get there. With each passing day, caring for a newborn becomes simpler.
- If someone in the family feels left out, whether a spouse or other children, talk about it and be understanding. Don’t feel bad about spending alone time as a pair during the postpartum period. Babies demand a lot of attention, and you and your partner will be caring for them for the majority of the day.
Postpartum health: dealing with postpartum depression
The baby blues are common throughout the postpartum period. This can happen as soon as a few days after giving birth and last up to two weeks. In most circumstances, you won’t have symptoms all of the time, and your symptoms will change with time. After giving delivery, 70 to 80 percent of new mothers experience mood swings or bad feelings. Hormonal fluctuations induce the baby blues, and symptoms include:
- crying for no apparent reason
- irritability
- Insomnia
- melancholy
- mood swings
- Restlessness
When symptoms of postpartum depression linger longer than two weeks, it is called postpartum depression. Additional symptoms include feelings of guilt and helplessness, as well as a lack of interest in daily duties. Postpartum depression causes some mothers to withdraw from their families, lose interest in their babies, and even consider harming them.
Postpartum depression necessitates medical assistance. If you suffer depression that lasts longer than two weeks after giving birth, or if you have thoughts of harming your infant, talk to your doctor. Postpartum depression can strike at any moment after a baby is born, even up to a year later.
Understanding physical changes and caring for your postpartum health
You’ll experience physical changes after giving birth, such as weight gain, in addition to emotional changes. Be patient because weight loss does not happen overnight. Once your doctor gives you the green light to exercise, start with a few minutes of moderate activity each day and progressively increase the length and intensity of your exercises. Take a stroll, swim, or sign up for an aerobics class. Eating nutritious, balanced meals that include fruits, veggies, and whole grains is also a part of losing weight.
Don’t compare your weight loss efforts to those of other new mothers because everyone loses weight at a different rate. Breast-feeding improves your daily calorie expenditure, which can help you get back to your pre-pregnancy weight faster.If you have any specific worries about your body’s changes during the postpartum period, talk to your doctor. Other changes to the body include:
- Drink plenty of water and eat high-fibre meals to encourage bowel movement. Consult your doctor for a list of safe drugs. Fibre, as well as over-the-counter treatments and sitz baths, can help with haemorrhoids. Drinking water after giving birth can help with urination issues. Kegel exercises can help you strengthen your pelvic muscles if you have incontinence.
- After having a baby, hormonal changes might induce nighttime perspiration. To stay cool, remove your blankets from your bed.
- A few days after birth, your breasts will fill with milk. Although this is a natural procedure, the swelling (engorgement) can be unpleasant. With time, engorgement improves. Apply a warm or cold compress to your breasts to relieve soreness. Breastfeeding sore nipples normally go away as your body adjusts. To relieve discomfort and cracking, apply nipple cream.
- A decreasing uterus can cause cramping after giving delivery. The discomfort fades with time. Inquire with your doctor about safe pain relievers.
- The perineum is the area between your rectum and vagina. During birth, it strains and tears frequently. To aid your labour, a doctor may cut this area. Kegel exercises, chilling the area with cold packs wrapped in towels, and reclining on a pillow can all help this area recuperate after delivery.
Two to four weeks after giving birth, vaginal discharge is common. This is how your body gets rid of your uterus of blood and tissue. Until the discharge stops, use sanitary napkins. Until your four to a six-week postpartum appointment, do not use tampons or douche until your doctor permits it. In the immediate postpartum period, using these products may raise the risk of uterine infection.
Notify your doctor if your vaginal discharge smells bad. You may experience bloody spotting within the first week after giving birth, but major bleeding is unlikely. If you have a lot of vaginal bleeding, such as filling one sanitary pad in less than two hours, see your doctor immediately.
Conclusion
Giving birth can alter your family’s structure and routine, but you will get used to it. Any mental or physical changes that occur after birth will gradually fade. However, don’t be afraid to discuss any concerns you have with your doctor, whether they are linked to depression, your baby, or the healing process. These pointers will assist you in maintaining your postpartum health and enjoy your journey of motherhood.
