Postpartum care is a vital phase where new mothers need to focus on healing and navigating the changes in their bodies, in addition to caring for their newborns. It can be a challenging period in the weeks following childbirth, and mothers can expect a range of experiences, from managing postpartum bleeding to balancing breastfeeding. Ultimately, each woman’s recovery is unique, and support from your Hunter’s Creek OBGYN and loved ones can make a significant difference.
What to Expect in Postpartum Care
Physical Changes
After giving birth, a woman goes through many significant physical changes. For instance, you may experience bleeding, known as lochia, for up to six weeks. Expect this bleeding to be heavier at first before it gradually decreases.
Perineal discomfort is also common, especially if you had any tears or an episiotomy. Cold packs and sitz baths are very effective in helping with the pain.
If you had a cesarean section, your recovery will involve different needs. For instance, it’s important to properly care for your incision site to prevent infection. Also, taking short walks and moving gently can help with healing and prevent blood clots.
Breast engorgement is another common change in the first few days after giving birth. Nursing frequently or pumping can help relieve this discomfort.
Emotional Adjustments
Postpartum emotions can feel like an emotional whirlwind, full of highs and lows. It’s important to be aware that hormonal shifts may lead to mood swings and feelings of sadness or frustration.
Baby blues are also common, affecting up to 80% of new moms. These feelings typically pass within two weeks. However, if you experience persistent sadness, it may indicate postpartum depression. Don’t wait to discuss this with your healthcare provider, as you will require professional support.
Pelvic Floor Health
Your pelvic floor muscles are responsible for supporting your bladder, uterus, and bowels. Unfortunately, during childbirth, your pelvic floor may weaken, causing you to experience issues such as incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Try doing kegel exercises frequently to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and improve your control over them.
Dietary Adjustments
Your postpartum nutritional needs will look significantly different from your pre-pregnancy needs. Ensure you’re eating a good variety of foods to have all the essential nutrients you need. To help with muscle repair, include lean proteins like chicken and legumes in your diet. Whole grains like brown rice give you energy that lasts, while fresh fruits and vegetables are packed with essential vitamins and minerals you need.
This is also an important time to add more dairy or fortified foods to increase your calcium intake, which will strengthen your bones. Meals that are rich in iron, like spinach and red meats, are also highly recommended to replenish the iron you may have lost during childbirth.
As for breastfeeding mothers, increasing their calorie intake is paramount in ensuring sufficient milk production. In fact, breastfeeding mothers should aim to eat about an additional 500 calories each day, focusing on nutrient-dense foods like whole grains and lean proteins.
Consult Our OBGYNs For Postpartum Care You Can Rely On
According to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, postpartum care should be regarded as a continual and ongoing process instead of just a single visit. After giving birth, you should see your OBGYN within 2 to 3 weeks to discuss any issues you’ve experienced. About 6 to 12 weeks after giving birth, you should have a comprehensive postpartum check where your OBGYN does a physical exam to see if you’re healing well.
At Woman’s Health Centers, you can trust our OBGYNs for thorough, compassionate, and empathetic care that focuses on your well-being and gives you crucial support on your journey through this important phase. We’re here to guide you through your recovery as you embrace being a new mother, and we’re committed to caring for you as an ongoing process. Call us today to schedule your consultation with one of our caring OBGYNs.