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Postpartum Care
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New mothers can feel many emotions after their baby in born. It is normal to feel
happy and tired at the same time. It can be exciting to give birth to a child, but
new mothers can be scared by the change in their life. During the weeks after delivery,
your body will heal and adjust to not being pregnant. This is called the postpartum
period. Most women need 6 to 8 weeks after giving birth to return to normal activities.
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An important part of your care is going to your doctor for a postpartum check-up.
Your first check-up should be 10-14 days after a c-section, or within 2-6 weeks
after a vaginal birth. Normal symptoms after delivery include:
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• Contractions called after-pains
• Sore or tender breasts
• Vaginal bleeding for up to 6 weeks
• Pain between the vagina and rectum
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It is normal to feel tired and overwhelmed after having a baby. Take good care of
yourself. Follow these simple steps:
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• Sleep when your baby sleeps
• Accept help from friends and family
• Eat regular meals
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially if you are breast-feeding
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Breast-feeding is a good way to bond with your baby. Breast milk may help keep your
baby healthy. Breast-feeding can help moms too. Talk to your doctor if you plan
on breast-feeding. Your doctor can explain why breast milk is good for your baby.
If you do not want to get pregnant after giving birth, use birth control even if
you are breast-feeding. Talk to your doctor about which birth control is best for
you.
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Mood swings are normal after having a baby. It is normal to feel happy and tired
at the same time. Many new moms get the "baby blues". Half of new moms feel sad
after having a baby. 'Baby Blues' can last for 2 weeks after the birth of a baby.
If your symptoms last longer, then you may have Postpartum Depression (PPD). Symptoms
of PPD can include:
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• feeling sad
• can't stop crying
• can't sleep
• feeling hopeless
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PPD can be treated with therapy or medicine. Talk to your doctor and ask if you
may be at risk. Postpartum depression affects you and your baby. Contact your doctor
if you have symptoms of sadness that last longer than 2 weeks. You can also call
U-First 24-hour Nurse Help-line. Talking to other new mothers can help. Ask your
doctor if there is support groups for new mothers.
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DISCLAIMER: The Information on this site is not intended to take the place
of your doctor or other healthcare professionals. It is a resource to help you make
the best decisions and get the most from the medical services available to you.
A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of all medical
conditions.
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