In movies, new moms leave the hospital looking radiant, ready to run with their newborns, and everything seems perfect. However, the reality is quite different and often much harsher. What should you expect after giving birth? Let’s discuss the not-so-pretty side of postpartum recovery: bleeding, pain, healing from tears and stitches, and the simple inability to sit down comfortably.
What to Expect After Giving Birth
- Bleeding: Expect significant bleeding, known as lochia, which can last for several weeks.
- Pain: Whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section, there will be pain and discomfort.
- Healing: If you experienced tearing or needed stitches, healing can be particularly challenging.
- Discomfort: Simple activities like sitting down can be incredibly painful during the initial recovery period.
A Personal Story
After we got home from the hospital, I was handed a bag of self-care items: a bathing kit to speed up healing, gauzes, sprays, big underwear, and large pads. Each time I performed self-care, I found myself in tears. The pain was overwhelming, and the sight of so much blood made me feel sick. Despite the agony, I kept telling myself that as long as I got through this and my baby was healthy, it would all be worth it. But it’s important for you to know what to expect and understand that you are not alone.
I also dealt with diastasis recti (abdominal separation), tears, and stitches. I could barely walk. Fortunately, my mom was there to help, but she didn’t remember much about baby care, and many things had changed since she had me. So, I had to do all the research and manage everything myself. Even though my mom and partner were helping, they always had to ask me for guidance, which was exhausting because I could barely walk in the first few weeks.
To manage this, I put a schedule on the fridge for everyone to use. This ensured that anyone in the house could make the right decisions at any time. I also made sure to carve out some time for myself: taking long showers, and sleeping whenever the baby was sleeping or someone else was taking care of her, like my mom. I made sure the room was dark, used earplugs to block out the baby’s cries, and tried to get as much sleep as possible.
The first four weeks were brutal because I was breastfeeding, and I had to wake up every 1-2 hours to feed the baby. But things got easier afterward. I arranged for someone else to take over at night, and I only woke up once at 3 a.m. to pump. This made a significant difference in my recovery.
Self-Care for Wounds: Healing and Routine
Healing from childbirth can be a daunting process, especially when dealing with wounds from tears or stitches. Proper self-care is essential to ensure a smooth recovery and to prevent infections. Here’s a guide on how to care for your wounds and establish a routine.
Caring for Perineal Tears and Stitches
- Clean Gently: Use a peri bottle filled with warm water to gently clean your perineal area after using the bathroom. This helps avoid irritating the stitches.
- Use Medicated Pads: Witch hazel pads or medicated pads can provide soothing relief and help reduce inflammation.
- Apply Ice Packs: Ice packs can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Use them for 15-20 minutes at a time.
- Take Sitz Baths: Sit in a warm sitz bath for 10-15 minutes several times a day. This helps keep the area clean and promotes healing.
- Keep the Area Dry: After cleaning, gently pat the area dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing, which can irritate the stitches.
- Use Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, as recommended by your doctor, can help manage the pain.
- Avoid Straining: Try to avoid activities that put pressure on the stitches, such as heavy lifting or sitting for long periods.
- Wear Loose Clothing: Opt for loose, breathable clothing and underwear to avoid irritation and allow for airflow.
Routine for Wound Care
- Morning: Start with a gentle cleaning using a peri bottle, apply medicated pads, and take a sitz bath if possible.
- Throughout the Day: Keep the area clean and dry. Use ice packs as needed to manage swelling and pain. Reapply medicated pads.
- Evening: Repeat the morning routine, ensuring the area is clean and dry before bed. Take another sitz bath if needed.
- Overnight: Use a fresh pad and ensure you’re comfortable. Elevate your legs slightly to reduce swelling.
Managing Postpartum Bleeding
- Use Maternity Pads: Postpartum bleeding, or lochia, can be heavy. Use maternity pads, changing them frequently to stay clean and dry.
- Monitor Your Bleeding: It’s normal for bleeding to decrease over time. If you notice very heavy bleeding or large clots, contact your healthcare provider.
Breast Care
- Nipple Care: Use lanolin cream or nipple balm to prevent and treat cracked or sore nipples from breastfeeding.
- Engorgement Relief: Apply warm compresses before feeding and cold compresses afterward to relieve engorgement. Massage your breasts gently to reduce discomfort.
- Wear a Supportive Bra: A well-fitting, supportive bra can provide comfort and support as your breasts change postpartum.
Emotional Well-being
- Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s normal to experience a range of emotions. Allow yourself to feel without judgment.
- Talk About It: Share your feelings with your partner, a trusted friend, or a therapist. Seeking support can be incredibly helpful.
- Join Support Groups: Online or local new mom groups can provide a sense of community and shared experience.
Nutrition and Hydration
- Eat Nutritious Foods: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support your recovery.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re breastfeeding, as it helps with milk production and overall health.
- Consider Supplements: Prenatal vitamins can continue to be beneficial postpartum. I continued to take them because I was breastfeeding. They also recommend Vitamin D intake if you breastfeed.
Physical Recovery
- Gentle Exercise: Start with gentle exercises like walking and pelvic floor exercises (Kegels).
- Listen to Your Body: Don’t rush into intense physical activity. Gradually increase your activity level as you feel ready
Sleep and Rest
- Sleep When the Baby Sleeps: Take naps whenever possible. Rest is crucial for your recovery.
- Create a Restful Environment: Ensure your sleep environment is comfortable and conducive to rest. Use earplugs and eye masks if needed.
Conclusion
The first few weeks after giving birth are a critical time for recovery and adjustment. By following these self-care routines and tips, you can better manage the physical and emotional challenges of postpartum life. Remember, it’s essential to prioritize your well-being so you can take the best care of your baby. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help and support from family, friends, and healthcare providers. You are not alone in this journey, and taking care of yourself is a vital part of being the best mom you can be.