The baby is here. You survived childbirth. You’re a mom! Congratulations! How do you feel?
That’s a bit of a loaded question. Just when you thought your body was all yours and about to get back to normal again, you wake up the morning after and realize you’re sore everywhere. From disrupted sleep to getting used to the responsibilities of parenthood to the roller coaster emotions… it’s a lot.
Here are a few tips for taking care of yourself during this wonderful but complicated period.
- Perineal soreness/hemorrhoids: If you have a vaginal delivery, you may have some soreness, tearing, or hemorrhoids. It sounds scary, but there is relief! You can use a cold pack to reduce inflammation, do some Kegel exercises, sit on a soft cushion, eat lots of food high in fiber (fruits and vegetables), stay hydrated by drinking lots of water or juices (rather than soda or coffee), soak in a warm bath, and use analgesics.
- Afterbirth pains: These are cramp-like pains that can last for one or two days after birth, while your uterus shrinks back to its regular size. These are normal, and ibuprofen should help.
- Breast engorgement: In the early days postpartum, babies will need to nurse frequently and there is no “normal” schedule. But at some point, the two of you will fall into a regular rhythm and it will get more comfortable. Your county Bootheel Babies and Families contact is always available to offer support.
- Is it serious? While rare, some conditions can happen after birth that may have serious complications, such as infections, blood clots, or postpartum hemorrhage. Warning signs to look for include chest pain, trouble breathing, fever higher than 100.4 F, heavy bleeding, severe headache, extreme pain, and discharge, pain, or redness around your Cesarean incision, episiotomy, or perineal tear. Don’t hesitate. Call your doctor immediately.
There may be a lot of physical changes in the first six weeks after giving birth. Don’t forget to schedule your six-week postpartum check-up with your doctor. It may help to write down notes about things you don’t want to forget to ask.