It’s common for new moms to struggle with post-delivery pain, postpartum depression, and fatigue. Some recovery guidelines, writes Mini P.
A woman’s body undergoes enormous changes during pregnancy and after delivery. The postpartum period — six-eight weeks — requires new mothers to cope with the strain of physical recovery as well as to prepare emotionally to discharge infant care duties. Therefore it’s common for new moms to experience post-delivery pain, postpartum depression, and fatigue. But in the whirlwind that follows the birth of a child, women tend to ignore their own physical and mental well-being. Here are some vital recovery guidelines for new moms.
Physical recovery
Post-delivery, the body needs six-eight weeks to recover and return to its pre-pregnancy condition. During this period, a well-balanced diet with sufficient liquids and protein — critical for breastfeeding — is vital. Schedule an appointment with your doctor for a post-partum check-up two-six weeks after delivery. However if you notice any of the following symptoms, report to a medical practitioner immediately.
• Heavy vaginal bleeding or large blood clots
• Severe pain at the episiotomy site • Pain while urinating
• High fever
• Body cramps
Post-partum depression
Post-partum blues are common and range from occasional mood swings to anxiety and depression. Hormone fluctuations are mostly responsible for post-partum depression. To beat the blues, undertake mild physical exercise and experience fresh air and sunlight every day. If the depression lasts for over six weeks, seek medical help.
Back pain
Most new moms complain of back pain. Try not to bend too much and sit or stand for long hours. Also when breastfeeding, ensure your back has adequate support. It’s important to consult a doctor/ fitness expert to suggest mild exercises to alleviate back pain. There are numerous expert videos on YouTube featuring postpartum exercises.
Birth control
It’s critical that you discuss birth control options with your doctor as within a month of delivery, you can get pregnant again. If you are breastfeeding, it could delay ovulation, but breastfeeding is not a guarantee against conception.
Adequate sleep
A typical newborn wakes up about every three hours and needs to be breastfed and comforted. You need to adjust your time clock to your infant’s and take short naps during the day/night when the baby is sleeping. You can also ask your partner, a relative or nanny to watch over the infant for a few hours while you rest. Since a full night’s sleep is still months away, new moms need to quickly learn to adjust their sleep schedules to the new routine.
Healthy diet
New moms need a wholesome, healthy diet. Include protein-rich and nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables and fruits. Never skip meals. Avoid alcohol and tobacco.
Very important: drink adequate water as it can affect the amount of breast milk produced.
The post-partum period is critical because it’s the time when the body recovers and rebuilds. Get a lot of rest, maintain a nutritious diet, and rope in friends and relatives to assist with infant care duties.