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
Take sitz baths after 24 hours
Keep area clean and dry
Use peri bottle when urinating
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