It’s also a time of intense physical and emotional changes.
It is also common to experience emotional changes like feeling sad and overwhelmed.
This article discusses postpartum care, what to expect, and how to care for yourself.
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Your focus is both on healing physically and caring for your newborn.
It is important to see your healthcare provider during the postpartum period.
Your provider can help keep you and your newborn healthy.
Fortunately, there are ways to help relieve them.
Sleep
Postpartum sleepcan be challenging.You will likely feel tired in the weeks and months after giving birth.
To help your body heal, focus on resting as much as possible.
Sleep when your baby sleeps.
Consider limiting visitors to help you catch up on rest.
Fortunately, postpartum depression is treatable with therapy support groups, medication, and support.
Once you are ready to have sex again, talk with your provider about a contraception plan.
Coping Through Postpartum Changes
The postpartum period brings countless changes.
It may be helpful to make a plan for changes in this new chapter of life.
Focus on rest and recovery.
Plan to wear a sanitary pad in the days and weeks after birth due to vaginal bleeding.
Drink plenty of water, and add healthy, fresh foods to your meals when possible.
Talk with your healthcare provider about an exercise plan.
Start slow, taking 10-minute walks, and work up from there.
venture to focus on small things that help you feel like yourself.
Sleep whenever you could, and spend time resting throughout the day.
Talk to your partner, friends, or loved ones about how they can support you.
Feeding
Learning how to feed your newborn takes time and may be challenging.
If you are usingformulato feed your baby, discuss recommendations with your childs pediatrician.
Ifbreastfeeding, seek support from a lactation consultant, midwife, or healthcare provider.
They can help with any breastfeeding challenges or questions.
Frequent feedings, breast massage, and warm showers can help.
Going back to work is an emotional experience after having a baby.
If possible, start planning your return to work while pregnant.
It is also important to develop a childcare plan ahead of time.
As your return to work gets closer, practice for the big day.
When you return to work, remember its normal to feel different.
You have undergone changes.
take a stab at be patient with yourself and those around you.
This is a big transition, and it will take time.
It is important to continue seeing your healthcare provider after giving birth.
Most people see their providers about six weeks after giving birth.
About 40% of people do not attend their postpartum visit.
During your follow-up visit, your provider will ask about your physical and emotional health.
They will talk with you about your mood and any symptoms you are experiencing.
Talk with your provider about any concerns you have.
Resources and Support
Everyone needs support during the postpartum period.
If you have friends and family members offering to help, take them up on it.
If you do not have people in your life to help you, there are still resources available.
Ways to show support include:
Summary
The postpartum period is an intense time of life.
You will likely experience several changes, both physical and emotional.
It is important to focus on your health and well-being in addition to your newborn.
Emotional changes like feeling sad and overwhelmed are common, too.
There are resources available to help you during the postpartum period.
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