The early postpartum period, sometimes called the “fourth trimester,” is just as important as pregnancy. After giving birth, whether vaginally or by cesarean section, your body needs time for healing.
Preserve your own wellness while caring for the little one. Postpartum care is necessary for new moms to regain physical and emotional strength.
The postpartum stage, which is also known as the period after delivery, is a critical time for new moms. The World Health Organization, or WHO, defines this period as the first six weeks post childbirth, but it can last up to 12 weeks until your body heals to its pre-pregnancy state. During that period, your body suffers multiple mental and physical alterations as it recovers from the birth and pregnancy. Proper support and medical attention is needed for your recovery and adaptation to your new life as a mother.
Postpartum care involves both medical and non-medical support for a new mother after childbirth. During that time, care providers will help you heal, adjust to your new position, and deal with any issues. More than half of pregnancy-related death occur after childbirth during the postpartum period, so consistent and ongoing postpartum care might help prevent them.
After a vaginal delivery, it’s normal to experience a range of physical symptoms as your body heals. Vaginal soreness is common, especially if you had vaginal tears or an episiotomy. If the pain is severe or persistent, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare professional. Hemorrhoids can also occur in many cases due to the pushing during active labour.
Vaginal discharge, known as lochia, is another typical symptom and could last up to six or eight weeks postpartum. The discharge will gradually change from bright red to pink, then to white or yellow. You might also experience contractions, or afterpains, which feel like menstrual cramps and help your uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size.
Leaking urine, or incontinence, is also common but usually improves over time during the first year postpartum. However, if the urinary incontinence doesn’t improve, it’s best to seek help from a pelvic floor specialist – these are physical therapists and physiotherapists who specialise in the pelvic floor.
Here are some postpartum health concerns to be aware of:
Focus on eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to provide the nutrients your body needs. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, too. If you’re breastfeeding, you may need to consume more calories to support milk production, but you must avoid overeating.
Aim for nutrient-dense foods rather than empty calories. Avoid crash diets or excessive exercise, as they could hinder your recovery. Remember, your body has just accomplished an incredible feat, and it deserves gentle, nourishing care.
The postpartum checkup is a major part of recovery. Most medical providers recommend seeing you around six weeks postpartum, but some visits occur earlier or more frequently depending on whether you require more care. That visit is an opportunity to address any remaining issues, such as urine urinary tract infection, muscles in the pelvic floor issues, or feeding problems.
During your whole post visit, your care doctor will look at your physical and mental well. They’ll take your blood pressure, weigh you, and check how you’re recovering.
If you have had issues such as gestational diabetes or high blood pressure, your care might require more check-ups.
Some moms experience postpartum depression after going through the baby blues. The difference between the two is often a matter of duration and severity. If your feelings of sadness or anxiety last longer than two weeks or interfere with daily life, talk to your care provider.
Many support groups are available for new mothers, offering both emotional support and practical advice. Don’t hesitate to lean on your community, whether it’s friends, family, or a trusted group of new moms.
The postpartum period can also be used to plan future pregnancies. Many health care experts consider family planning at your post visit, including long-acting reversible pills.The ideal length between pregnancies is 18-24 months. This gives a mother enough time to heal after birth without having another kid.
Caring for a newborn while healing could seem like juggling. Do not underestimate the value of emotional support in the postpartum period. Having a network to rely on, whether it’s a partner, relatives, or a support group, may make all the difference.
Motherhood is wonderful, but it may also feel like you’re caught up in a maelstrom of feelings lack of sleep, and changes in your body. You are not alone on your route, Dr. Kristal Lau understands myself what you are going through. As a mother and a highly experienced postpartum wellness coach, she is available to offer you with compassionate, mother-centered care focusing on your needs.
Whether you’re healing physically, dealing with emotions, or simply trying to find your place in your new raising kids chapter, Dr. Lau will help you grow.
Book your free call and take your first step toward a healthier, happier postpartum experience!
Q. How soon after birth should I see my care provider for a postpartum checkup?
A. Your postpartum visit should be set up within six weeks after birth. However, if you suffer any issues, like severe bleeding, fever, or too much changes in mood, contact the doctor soon.
Q. What physical changes should I expect in the first few weeks after giving birth?
A. Postpartum recovery comes with vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding, and changes in your breasts, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Your care provider will guide you on how to manage the changes, and when to seek help if something doesn’t feel right.
Q. How do I know if my vaginal bleeding is normal after delivery?
A. Vaginal bleeding is usual for several weeks after having birth, starting heavy and then reducing over the course of six to eight weeks. If you have severe bleeding from your vagina or pass large clots, call a doctor soon.
Q. How do I best prepare for my postpartum care before the baby arrives?
A. Consider setting up your support system in advance—friends, family, and postpartum care resources. Creating a postpartum plan while still pregnant is the best time for postpartum preparation. Make sure you have a plan for postpartum visits and know who to contact if any issues arise after giving birth.
Q. How long does it take to feel “normal” again after giving birth?
A. You will have a “new normal” once baby is here. This can look and feel different for everyone. There are also physical changes to your body that won’t feel completely like how it was before you were pregnant. It’s important to understand that every mother’s recovery timeline is different. It could take several months to fully heal, both physically and emotionally, sometimes up to a year. Be patient with yourself and seek help from your care provider whenever you feel uncertain about your recovery.
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