The fourth trimester of pregnancy, i.e., the first 6-12 weeks after delivery, is as critical as the pregnancy itself. With the support of your family and the proper knowledge of postpartum recovery and newborn care, you can navigate this journey with confidence. For health education for postnatal mothers, you can visit the maternity centre in Navi Mumbai.
Let’s discuss a few tips that can help new moms.
Physical Recovery
The area between the vagina and rectum might be sore and extremely painful for the first few weeks after birth. It may stretch or tear. Sometimes, a doctor makes a cut for quick delivery. Ice massage, sitting on pillows, and staying hydrated are a few tips for recovery.
If you delivered the baby through a c-section, proper wound care is necessary. Watch for the signs of infection, such as swelling or redness on the incision site. Avoid heavy lifting and get as much rest as possible. Sleep when your baby sleeps. They will wake up frequently for a feed. So, getting proper sleep in between your feeding sessions is advisable. Follow up with your gynecologist to ensure you are healing well.
Mental Health
A majority of women experience baby blues after giving birth. This should resolve on its own by 3-4 weeks. You might experience irritability, negative thoughts, and unexplained crying. However, that’s different from postpartum depression. It’s a serious mental illness that requires medical attention. If you experience thoughts of hurting yourself or the baby, worthlessness, and negativity, and it persists for more than 2-3 weeks, it could be postpartum depression. See a psychiatrist immediately to address the issue.
Nutrition and Diet
Constipation is a common issue after childbirth. Eating a fiber-rich diet with proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and other healthy nutrients is key to faster recovery. You must also add iron and calcium to your diet to ensure sufficient milk supply. Ask your doctor for calcium supplements.
Breastfeeding Support
Any postnatal care specialist in Navi Mumbai will recommend exclusive breastfeeding for six months. It has all the nutrients your baby needs for proper growth. In the initial days, you might experience breast engorgement, which makes your breasts heavy. The symptoms are temporary and will resolve once your body adjusts to your breastfeeding routine. Feed your baby often from both breasts and consider lactation counseling if you are having any trouble with breastfeeding.
Infant Care
Understanding your baby’s language can be tricky, but there are some basic cues you should know. If they turn their heads towards your breasts and are crying consistently, they are hungry. If they are yawing and rubbing their eyes, they are sleepy. High-pitched crying that’s inconsolable could be a more severe issue that needs a call to your pediatrician.
Conclusion
The postpartum period comes with many challenges, both physical and mental. A sudden drop in estrogen, the physical changes from childbirth, and the new responsibility of the new mother can all take a toll on your health. Meet your pediatrician and clear all your doubts about newborns, physical recovery, and breastfeeding.