Postpartum for the Mother

The first 6-8 weeks postpartum is a period of rapid change, as you’re adjusting to live with a newborn and need time for your recovery as a new mother. The energy demand can be high and your healing is happening at the same time.

We want to help you with practical tips for post-partum preparation and handling the worries and challenges of this period.

Physical recovery: All you need to know about wound care

You might have had a tear of episiotomy or bruises, which are common if you have a vaginal birth.
Most tears or episiotomies heal well. It’s normal to feel pain due to the stiches for ~3 weeks, they will dissolve. Bruising usually gets better within a few days. Make sure your stitches are clean will help them to heal as well as reduce the risk of infection. To handle the pain, keep your wound cool, sit more comfortably, have a warm bath, painkillers.
In case of c-section
Right after the procedure, rest and avoid compressing your stomach (lifting your newborn is fine, but don’t lift heavy things). Lower abdominal pain while your incisions heals is normal. Wound care is important, if you want to shower, make sure to wash the incision only with soapy water.
Infections: You should receive incision care instructions. If there is a problem with the wound, it usually shows up in the first two weeks. If you notice unusual redness, swelling, new pain, fever or fluids, see a health care provider immediately.

Is it normal or abnormal? When to contact a doctor

During pregnancy, a pregnant woman may be given the following to prevent various pregnancy-related concerns

Bleeding: bright red bleeding that lasts longer than a few days, or that soaks more than one sanitary pad in an hour, or with blood clots bigger than a golf ball; this is abnormal bleedings.

Cramping occurs after childbirth: They happen because your uterus is shrinking to its normal size, they often feel like period cramps, they may feel more intense when you’re feeding your baby. Using ice packs for the first 24 hours to reduce pain and swelling in the perineum and labia. They will will disappear in ~6 weeks.

Most likely, you’ll visit your health care provider six weeks after delivery. In some cases, you may need to seek medical attention before: if you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing that produces blood , redness and swelling at the incision site , dizziness, weakness, or confusion, rapid heartbeat or breathing.

Postpartum checkup

1. Usually around 6 weeks. The doctor will provide physical health care assessments and treatment: assess any repairs and removal of sutures, perform internal and external exams, to assess uterine and ovary health, inflammation, examine breasts for blocked milk ducts, lumps, any painful areas
2. Assess vitals (blood pressure) that could indicate good health or need for rest
3. Provide guidance and answer questions for lifestyle, family planning and mental health

Commonly asked questions