Your miraculous journey of pregnancy ends with the arrival of your baby, but another journey begins i.e. postpartum recovery. Unlike popular belief, it's not just a few days’ affair as it can span months. Though some women feel mostly themselves by 6-8 weeks, others may take longer. Understandably, it might feel like your body is working against you during this time, but remember, it's a process. Rest, eat well, and relax to aid your recovery. We spoke to our expert Dr Vidhyashri Kamath, OBG, KMC Hospital, Mangalore, who listed the bodily changes after delivery and ways to deal with them.
Postpartum Hormone Changes
Postpartum brings about significant hormonal shifts. “Hormones, the body's chemical messengers, adapt during pregnancy to support your baby's growth and prepare for childbirth. After birth, they serve new purposes, aiding healing, bonding with your baby, and facilitating breastfeeding if you choose to”, said Dr Kamath.
Dr Kamath listed the first postpartum hormone changes that your body will go through as follows:
- Following delivery of the placenta and your baby, levels of progesterone and oestrogen drop.
- The bonding hormone oxytocin surges, causing you to feel a strong parental instinct.
- Prolactin increases to signal milk production.
- Post-delivery, you may encounter vaginal soreness, particularly if you experienced tearing or an episiotomy during labour. Stitches may be required to mend tears, a process that could take up to six weeks.
To alleviate discomfort at home, follow these steps:
- You can apply ice packs to reduce pain and swelling.
- Use pain relief medication as advised by your doctor.
- Opt for a soft pillow when sitting to minimise pressure on the area.
Taking care of yourself during this phase is essential for a smooth transition into motherhood and ensuring your well-being alongside your baby's.
Also Read: Postpartum Depression: Expert Lists Its Symptoms, Risk Factors, And Importance Of Seeking Support
Vaginal Discharge
After childbirth, vaginal bleeding and discharge are normal and can last for several weeks. This discharge is your body's way of expelling extra tissue and blood from your uterus, which supports your baby during pregnancy.
According to StatPearls, lochia refers to the vaginal discharge originating from the uterus, cervix, and vagina, which can continue for up to five weeks after childbirth. Prolonged red lochia beyond one week could signal uterine subinvolution. Offensive odour, large tissue or blood clots in lochia, or its absence may indicate infection.
Dr Kamath highlighted, “Initially, the discharge is bright red, gradually turning pinkish, brownish, then yellow or creamy before disappearing. It may be heaviest in the first 10 days and usually stops around six weeks post-delivery. Tampons should be replaced with sanitary pads to avoid infections.”
After Pains
“Experiencing contractions for a few days after delivery is common. These contractions, akin to menstrual cramps, occur as your uterus shrinks back to its pre-pregnancy size, a process that takes about six weeks”, added Dr Kamath.
Breastfeeding can intensify these pains due to chemicals released in your body. You can alleviate discomfort by applying a heating pad to your belly or using pain relievers as advised by your doctor.
Sore Nipples and Breasts
In the initial days of breastfeeding, it's normal to experience sore nipples and breasts. If the soreness persists beyond a few days, it might indicate improper latching by the baby. Consult a lactation expert for assistance to prevent painful cracks in your nipples. Breastfeeding or pumping can relieve swelling and tenderness, and it's crucial to wear a firm and supportive bra.
Sore Muscles
Feeling muscle soreness post-birth is common, akin to the aftermath of an intense workout. Expect soreness in areas where you held tension during labour, such as your arms, neck, or jaw.
Tiredness
Fatigue is a common postpartum symptom, considering the physical strain of childbirth and ongoing care for your baby. Prioritise rest, sleep whenever your baby does, and focus on maintaining a healthy diet and hydration to replenish energy levels.
Hair and Skin Changes
“Hair thinning in the first few months after childbirth is typical due to hormonal shifts. Similarly, stretch marks on your belly and breasts may appear but will eventually fade over time”, said Dr Kamath.
Constipation
Postpartum constipation is common and can be caused by pain-relieving drugs, anaesthesia, or fear of exacerbating stitches or tearing. Stay hydrated, consume fibre-rich foods, and consider discussing a stool softener with your doctor if needed.
Also Read: Intimacy After Pregnancy: Expert Lists Things You Must Know
Haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids, painful swelling of rectal veins, may develop during pregnancy or childbirth. Apply soothing creams, and if symptoms persist, seek medical advice.
Leaking Urine
Stretching or damage to pelvic floor muscles during pregnancy and childbirth may lead to urine leakage, known as incontinence. Wear sanitary pads until leakage subsides and practise pelvic floor muscle exercises (kegels) to regain control.
Feeling Blue
“Experiencing worry, anxiety, and fatigue after bringing your baby home is common, known as ‘baby blues’, attributed to hormonal changes. If these feelings persist beyond a few weeks, seek medical assistance as it could indicate postpartum depression”, highlighted Dr Kamath.
Water Retention
Postpartum swelling, caused by increased progesterone levels, may last for up to a week after delivery. If swelling persists or worsens, consult your doctor.
Weight Loss
Immediate weight loss post-birth is unlikely, but gradual weight loss can be expected over several months, influenced by factors, such as breastfeeding and diet consistency. Don't be discouraged if weight loss takes longer than anticipated, and prioritise your health and nutrition.
When can you expect your first postpartum period?
After having a baby, your period can come back at different times. “If you breastfeed exclusively, it might take longer for your period to return, sometimes not until you stop breastfeeding. If you don't breastfeed, your period may come back sooner, within a few weeks to a few months after giving birth”, added Dr Kamath.
When to See Your Doctor
After childbirth, your first doctor's visit is usually at six weeks. Before then, contact your doctor if you experience:
- Heavy bleeding from the vagina (more than one pad in one hour)
- Persistent severe headache
- Leg pain with redness or swelling
- Breast pain, swelling, warmth, or redness
- Chills or fever over 100.4° F
- Fainting or dizziness
- Vision changes or unrelenting headache
- Pain or issues when urinating
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Heart palpitations, chest pain, or breathing problems
- Vomiting
- New or worsening belly pain
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your gynaecologist if you are dealing with any health issues to get the necessary treatment.]