What to Expect From Post Partum Recovery

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If you've recently had a baby, your body has done something miraculous. After nine (or so) months of waiting to meet your child, you're likely ecstatic to be home with your little one. The majority of your time and energy will be spent caring for your baby. However, it's important to remember that you should take care of yourself as well.

You'll be going through a number of physical and emotional changes after having a baby. Here are some things you should expect during your postpartum recovery.

Improving Your Health

It took nearly a year for your baby to grow in the womb. However, you'll be happy to know that you'll probably start feeling better about yourself in a few weeks or months. This doesn't mean that you won't face some difficulties while you're on the path to recovery. You may even feel that your body isn't healing as well as you want it to. Try your best to get enough rest to accelerate the recovery process. Don't push yourself to do too much. If all you have the strength to do is take care of your child, sleep, and eat, that's enough for now.

You should pay special attention to your body during the first month and a half after giving birth. It's important to notice any changes so you can tell your doctor if something is wrong, even though most of your focus will be on your baby. If you've had a C-section, you'll likely have more restrictions when it comes to moving or exercising. Here are a few specific things to expect while you're healing.

Pain In The Abdomen

Your uterus is going back to its normal shape and size, so you'll likely have abdominal discomfort, which is known as "afterpains." Some pains are dull and will pass in a few minutes, but other pangs are more severe. You'll likely feel more afterpains when you're nursing your baby. Breastfeeding activates a chemical that makes your uterus contract. Applying heat to your lower stomach can help the pain subside, so you may want to purchase a hot water bottle or heating pad. If abdominal pain doesn't go away after a few weeks or the pain intensifies, you should contact your physician.

Abdominal Separation

Abdominal separation, also known as diastasis recti, is the total or partial separation of the muscles in your stomach that form a "six-pack." This condition is common during pregnancy and after labor and delivery. The muscles of your abdomen separate during pregnancy and birth because the muscles shift to make room for your growing infant. One study asserts that as much as 60% of women have diastasis recti during or after pregnancy.

Symptoms of abdominal separation include a bulge at the bottom of the stomach, especially when you attempt to tighten your stomach muscles. You may also experience digestive issues, lower back pain, and pain or discomfort when you try to stand or sit straight up.

It's important to avoid straining your stomach muscles, so you shouldn't engage in intense exercise or heavy lifting for a few weeks or months. Try to practice good posture by wearing a back brace or sitting with a pillow on your back. When you're getting out of bed, bend your knees and roll while supporting your body with your arm.

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression, also known as "baby blues," is rather common after giving birth. You may feel elated to bring your little one home. However, shortly after the feeling of exhilaration, you could experience overwhelming sadness. Postpartum can be very confusing for you as a new mother, but you're not alone. Up to 80% of women who have recently given birth said they felt said a few weeks after delivery. This is due to drastic hormonal changes. Baby blues is nothing to be ashamed of, and you should talk to your doctor about medications and lifestyle changes that can help you manage postpartum depression. If postpartum depression lasts for more than a few weeks or you're unable to perform daily functions, speak with your physician about a detailed treatment plan.

While having a baby can be a rewarding experience, your body will undergo significant changes. It's important to be prepared for these possible changes so you can effectively treat or prevent certain health conditions and spend more time feeling confident about your body and your new role as a mother.