Common Concerns

One day I will write a movie or stand-up comedy routine about the first few days after giving birth. Here are a few things no one tells you:

  • Your rectum will probably hurt more than your vagina

  • The first bowel movement after birth is not as bad as it seems but still scary as….

  • You will be leaking from every orifice

  • People will ask you when the baby is due even though you are holding a 1 week old

  • You will lose hair….in clumps….that looks like a small animal in the drain around 4-months postpartum

  • You start to sweat like a man (if you didn’t already)

  • Your feet grow in pregnancy due to the weight gain and not only may you not fit into your skinny jeans, you may have to buy all new shoes

  • Mothering can be isolating

  • You just have to laugh and see the bright side. Talk about, seek out other new mom’s, be gentle to yourself and the people that love you!

Cramping or after-birth pains

  • Afterbirth Contractions

  • Normal contractions help uterus return to original size

  • May be stronger with subsequent births

  • Most intense during breastfeeding

  • Can be managed with ibuprofen and warm compresses

Postpartum Bleeding (Lochia)

  • Heaviest first 3 days, gradually lightens

  • Changes from bright red to brown to pink over 2-3 weeks

  • Small clots (up to golf ball size) are normal

  • Call midwife if passing large clots or notice foul odor

Perineal Care

Use ice packs first 24 hours for swelling

  1. Take sitz baths after 24 hours

  2. Keep area clean and dry

  3. Use peri bottle when urinating

  4. Take ibuprofen for pain/inflammation

Breastfeeding

  • Position baby belly-to-belly, ensuring wide latch

  • Feeding shouldn't be painful after initial latch

  • Air dry nipples after feeding

  • Contact midwife if experiencing persistent pain or fever

  • Use pure lanolin between feedings if needed

Rest & Recovery

Self-Care Priorities:

  • Sleep when baby sleeps - housework can wait

  • Accept help from family and friends

  • Limit visitors in the first few weeks

  • Keep baby close at night for easier feeding

  • Stay hydrated and eat nutritious meals

Normal Changes:

  • Increased sweating first few days

  • Possible hair loss around 4 months postpartum

  • Gradual weight loss over several months

  • Body changes may take time to resolve

  • Initial pregnancy mask and skin changes will fade

When to Call Your Midwife

  • Fever over 100.4°F or chills

  • Severe headache or vision changes

  • Large blood clots (larger than an egg) or increased bleeding

  • Foul-smelling discharge

  • Severe breast pain or hot, red areas on breasts

  • Signs of postpartum depression

  • Burning or pain during urination

  • Soaking more than one pad per hour