Postpartum Care – Tips for a Healthy Recovery

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Giving birth to your baby is an overwhelming feeling, and it is filled with countless emotions. As you begin this beautiful journey of motherhood, it is vital to take time for your health, too. The post-delivery period/ postpartum period is referred to as the fourth trimester of your journey. It is crucial because your body becomes sensitive and requires time to heal and regain strength. If you have passed through a high risk of pregnancy, then self-care becomes vital.
For a healthy recovery of your mind and body, you are advised to follow the below-mentioned tips that will not only help you in this time but will make your future life easier.

• Healing of Vaginal Pain
  Genital tract injuries are evident with spontaneous vaginal birth, which causes vaginal discomfort. While large rips could take longer, mild vaginal tears after delivery usually heal in a few weeks. Encourage women to take over-the-counter painkillers, sit on a cushioned chair, or apply ice to the region to reduce the agony. Women should be advised about the symptoms of infection, such as fever, and encouraged to seek medical help if their discomfort is severe or persistent.
• Vaginal bleeding/discharge
  Bloody vaginal discharge first has a thick viscosity and is pinkish-brown in colour. After 3–4 days, it gradually turns watery. It turns yellowish-white over the next 10–12 days. If excessive vaginal bleeding continues (using one pad or more an hour), advise women to seek medical assistance. Women who experience excessive, prolonged postpartum bleeding should be checked for issues such as retained placenta, uterine atony, invasive placenta, or coagulation problems. Endometritis is another possibility, it may manifest as a fever without an apparent cause, maybe accompanied by uterine pain and vaginal discharge. Antibiotics given continuously are usually necessary. Additionally, this must be clarified, and the mother should be urged to get help immediately.
• Rest and Recovery
  Get as much rest as possible because this is essential postpartum care advice. Your body witness changes significantly as a result of pregnancy and delivery. Enough sleep and relaxation are necessary to heal the body, hormone control, and mental well-being. Ask your friends and relatives for assistance so that you may get as much rest as you can.
• Nutrition and Hygiene
  If you’re breastfeeding your baby, a proper as well as healthy diet is essential to produce enough breast milk. Emphasize eating a well-balanced diet that contains fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which can help your body heal and produce more milk. It also promotes good health and quick healing.
• Pelvic Floor Exercises
  Your pelvic floor muscles could be damaged or weakened following delivery. There are exercises for the pelvic floor, including the Kegel exercise, which can help you regain strength and stop problems like urinary tract infections.
• Management of Pain
  Your pain or discomfort depends on whether you had a vaginal/normal delivery or a C-section delivery. Also, it depends on your condition during pregnancy. Following your doctor’s recommendations for treating your pain is vital, including using essential medicines, prescription medication, or non-medical methods like warm compresses.
• Emotional Health
  Although postpartum sadness and anxiety are not uncommon, the postpartum blues are. It’s critical to express your emotions honestly and to ask for assistance if necessary. Consider attending a postpartum support group and contacting other new mothers for help.
• Breastfeeding Assistance
  If you decide to breastfeed, get assistance from a lactation consultant if you face any problems. A proper latch and posture are crucial for you and your baby to be comfortable.
• Perineal Care
  If you had a vaginal delivery, perineal care is essential. Use a peri-bottle with warm water to clean the area gently after using the restroom and pat it dry. Avoid harsh soaps and opt for comfortable, breathable underwear. Make sure to be extra protective of it.
• Postpartum Exercise
  Start building a routine into postpartum exercise if your doctor allows you to. Stress-free activities like walking and pelvic floor exercises can help regain strength and energy. A routine of exercise is crucial in postpartum care.
• Bonding and Self-Care
  While caring for yourself, always remember to spend quality time with your baby. It improves your bonding. Make sure to take breaks for self-care, whether it’s a relaxing bath, reading a book, or a short nap. A happy and rested mother is better equipped to care for her baby. The postpartum period is crucial for establishing a relationship with your new baby and safeguarding your health. The emotional connection you have with your child is called bonding. It’s crucial for the growth of your child and has advantageous effects on both your mental and physical wellness.

1. Investing Time in Your Baby: Holding, stroking, and conversing with your little one are all excellent ways to spend time with them. This link can be strengthened via skin-to-skin contact, such as during nursing.
   Self-Care: It’s essential to look after your physical and emotional wellness. This includes adequate sleep, eating healthy food, and drinking enough water.
2. Keep Taking Breaks: Taking breaks in your routine is vital for you. This could involve activities like taking a relaxing bath, reading a book, or even a short nap. These breaks can help you recharge and reduce stress.
3. Happy and Rested Mother: When you take care of yourself, you become better equipped to care for your baby. A happy and rested mother is more capable of handling the challenges of motherhood.

• Get Professional Assistance
  1. 1. Contact Doctor: Getting in Touch with Your Doctor You must call your doctor right away if you feel extreme pain, considerable bleeding, or any other unexpected symptoms following childbirth. These signs and symptoms can point to a condition that needs to be treated right away.
     2. Quick medical attention: It is essential that you receive medical attention as soon as you can for your health and recovery. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it since prompt action can avert problems.

  Make a Support Plan

  1. 1. Pre-Delivery Support System: It’s a good idea to set up a support system before giving birth. Friends or family members who are willing to assist with duties like babysitting, cleaning, and cooking during the postpartum time might be considered in this category.
     2. Avoiding immediate Work: Your body needs time to recuperate after giving birth. Quickly joining a job or domestic duties might be hazardous to your health. It’s crucial to let your family know about this and ask for their help.
     3. Family Support: Request the presence and emotional support of your family. Adjusting motherhood and the accompanying physical and emotional changes might be made more accessible by having loved ones by your side.

Postpartum care involves both caring for your baby and yourself. Bonding with your baby through quality time and practising self-care is essential for your well-being and your baby’s development. Additionally, seeking professional assistance when needed and having a support plan in place can ensure a smoother and healthier postpartum experience. Remember that every mother’s journey is unique, so it’s crucial to tailor your postpartum care to your specific needs and circumstances.

Conclusion
Caring for yourself after giving birth is essential to being a mother. Prioritizing your physical and mental wellness can help you recover quickly and provide your baby with the best care possible. Remember that every woman’s postpartum experience is different, so pay attention to your body and get assistance if needed. Your hospital and healthcare provider are excellent options for advice and support during this life-changing period. Connect with the best gynaecologist in Amritsar in Amandeep Hospital for your care and support.