Vaginal birth recovery needs a lot of care and attention. The saving grace is that you will have your baby to cheer you up during this stage. Your physical and mental health needs to be taken care of properly to give your best to the baby. Knowing everything about vaginal birth recovery will help you get back to normal without much trouble. You will be better equipped to cope with any situation that arises after vaginal childbirth. Here is all you need to know about vaginal birth recovery.
What To Expect After Vaginal Birth
Yes, those big contractions are over. But, you will experience contractions or afterpains even after delivery as your uterus shrinks back to its normal size. Breastfeeding may also contribute to contractions as it produces hormones that cause the uterus to contract. You will also have to face heavy bleeding during the first day. You may even pass small clots. However, the blood flow gradually decreases and it can last up to six weeks. The perineum, the area between your vagina and rectum, will be swollen after vaginal birth. You may experience pain when you pass urine on the first day. However, the pain goes away in a day or so. So, how do you tackle all these? here you go.
Use Ice Packs
The perineum needs special care as it struggles a lot during vaginal birth. For many women, this area may tear during childbirth. Sometimes, your doctor may perform an episiotomy, which is a surgical cut made at the opening of the vagina. It will take 8-10 days for the stitches to heal. For several weeks, you may feel discomfort. Apply ice packs immediately after childbirth. You can ask your nurses to help with that. It might help you reduce the swelling. Start taking warm baths after a day of delivery. Or sit on an ice pack for ten minutes. You can do this several times a day. Keep your hands off the stitches. Make sure that you use clean towels to avoid any infection.
Get Rest
Proper rest is what you require after the vaginal birth. Do not hesitate to seek help from your family and friends. Because even after delivery you need helping hands to take care of yourself and your baby. Getting enough sleep is one of the best ways to heal your mind and body. If you don’t rest well, it may affect your physical and mental health. The mounting pressure of motherhood may invite unnecessary anxiety and depression. Getting proper rest is the thumb rule to evade them. Do not entertain visitors. This may stop you from getting as much rest as possible.
Practice Kegel Exercise
Strengthening your pelvic muscle is very vital after childbirth. Kegel exercise is the best remedy for that. Before you begin your fitness routine, talk to your doctor. Make sure it is safe for you. Once you begin your exercise, you should also observe your body’s response. If your body is not yet ready for any exertion, do not strain it.
Take Care Of Breast Soreness
As you begin breastfeeding you may encounter sore nipples and breasts. If you are not able to breastfeed properly or if the baby cannot latch correctly, the situation may aggravate. It is best to seek advice from a breastfeeding expert for help. Always use a nursing bra with good support. In case of pain, use ice packs to get relief. If you feel breast hardness with the accumulation of milk, use a hot compress.
Fight Baby Blues
Well, mood swings during pregnancy may continue even after delivery. An emotional letdown is common among new moms. Turns out, hormonal changes are behind these baby blues. There is nothing to be scared or ashamed of. Get support from your partner and family. Otherwise, it may affect the way you treat your baby. However, if postpartum depression creeps in, you should seek professional help.
Regain Healthy Weight
If getting back to pre-pregnancy weight is your priority, you need to change your focus. It is true that you will lose a few pounds after childbirth. But, it does not take you back to the pre-pregnancy stage. Well, do not try to shed those extra pounds right away. You cannot restrict eating as your body requires nutrients for your baby. For a breastfeeding mom, nutritious food is a must. Try to lose your weight over several months. The safest way to regain your healthy weight is to embrace a healthy eating schedule and regular physical activity.
Taking care of your body is very important post-delivery. Eat, breastfeed, and sleep –you don’t need to worry about anything else. An unhealthy mom cannot do justice to her little love. Even though aches and discomforts are normal after vaginal childbirth, any severe pain should be brought to your doctor’s attention. Ignoring your health will harm your body and also your baby’s well-being.
