Pregnancy brings about numerous changes to your body, and the postpartum period after a natural birth is no exception. Here’s what you can expect physically and emotionally after your delivery:
Vaginal Soreness
If you experienced a vaginal tear or had an episiotomy (a cut made between your vaginal opening and your anus), expect soreness that may persist for a few weeks. However, you can manage discomfort by:
- Sitting on a pillow or padded ring.
- Using cold packs or chilled witch hazel pads (to reduce inflammation and swelling).
- Rinsing the perineum (the area between the anus and the vulva) with warm water during urination.
- Taking warm baths for relief.
- Using over-the-counter pain relievers or numbing creams as advised by your healthcare provider.
- Applying stool softeners to prevent constipation.
Consult your healthcare provider if you face severe or increasing pain since it could indicate an infection.
Vaginal Discharge
Post-delivery, you’ll have vaginal discharge composed of the mucous membrane that lines your uterus. It begins as red and heavy, gradually tapering and changing color. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience heavy bleeding, especially if accompanied by pelvic pain, fever, or tenderness.
Contractions
Afterpains, resembling menstrual cramps, may occur in the first days post-delivery. They help prevent excessive bleeding and are common during breastfeeding due to oxytocin release. Your healthcare provider may recommend over-the-counter painkillers.
Incontinence
Pelvic floor muscles may be stretched or injured during pregnancy and delivery, leading to occasional urine leakage. Use sanitary pads and practice pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) to improve muscle tone.
Hemorrhoids and Bowel Movements
Pain during bowel movements may indicate hemorrhoids. Manage discomfort with over-the-counter creams, witch hazel pads, warm water soaks, and maintaining soft stools through a high-fiber diet and hydration.
Tender Breasts
Engorgement (full and tender breasts) can occur a few days after birth. Frequent breastfeeding helps alleviate engorgement. Use warm compresses before feeding and cold washcloths between feedings. Wear a supportive bra if not breastfeeding.
Hair Loss and Skin Changes
Post-delivery, expect hair loss for up to five months as hormone levels normalize. Stretch marks fade over time, and skin darkened during pregnancy gradually lightens.
Mood Changes
Childbirth triggers a range of emotions. Baby blues, characterized by mood swings and anxiety, typically subside within two weeks. Seek support if needed. If severe mood swings persist, contact your healthcare provider to discuss postpartum depression.
Weight Loss
After delivery, you might still appear pregnant. This is normal, and gradual weight loss occurs with a healthy diet and exercise.
The Postpartum Checkup
Postpartum care is an ongoing process. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends contacting your healthcare provider within three weeks postpartum and scheduling a comprehensive evaluation within 12 weeks. This includes assessing mood, contraception, neonatal care, and physical well-being.
