“Nobody told me there’d be days like these.” That’s a line from a John Lennon song, but it’s also a great way to describe the first few months after having a baby, when your physical and emotional needs are as unpredictable as the weather in Missouri. 

A few things you might be experiencing:

  • Body aches: Pushing during labor can strain muscles. Your uterus contracting after birth can cause cramps. Breastfeeding can hurt at first. Hearing a baby cry may give you a headache. What to do: Use cold and hot compresses. Follow your doctor’s advice for perineal care. Take acetaminophen for headaches and ibuprofen for muscle aches after consulting with your healthcare provider. Take naps. Drink water to stay hydrated. 
  • Swollen feet: Believe it or not, it can take weeks for you to get rid of all the excess fluid you acquired during pregnancy. So follow the same rules you’ve heard for months: Elevate your legs and feet when sitting. Avoid standing for more than 30 to 60 minutes at a time. Watch your intake of salty and high-sodium foods. This too will pass, but if you’re concerned, check with your healthcare provider. 
  • Urinary incontinence: The weight of your precious baby in those last few months of pregnancy put a lot of strain on your pelvic floor muscles. This could cause you to leak a little urine during coughing or sneezing. The best way to address this is by incorporating Kegel exercises into your routine.  
  • Emotional Chaos: The period immediately after giving birth is often referred to as the Fourth Trimester, and for a good reason. A lot of the physical and emotional changes that happened during pregnancy may take a little time to right themselves. 

Some postpartum emotions are normal and healthy, such as worry over whether you’re doing it right or tearing up over every little thing. If your mood becomes overly anxious or depressed, and stays that way for days or weeks, that is when you need to speak to a healthcare professional to determine if you have postpartum depression. 

Take care of yourself so you can enjoy these tiny baby days, because they don’t last nearly long enough!