Postpartum recovery is an essential part of the journey that new mothers go through after giving birth.
While the focus on pregnancy is always on preparing the mother for a safe delivery and making sure the baby is healthy, postpartum recovery is equally important.
The first few weeks after giving birth are a critical time when you need to focus on healing your body, managing your emotions, and getting to know your newborn.
Ignoring or neglecting postpartum care can lead to longer healing times, postpartum complications, and even chronic health issues.
It is important to understand that recovery can look different for every new mom, and it is important to prioritize self-care and be patient with yourself during this process.
In this article, we will discuss some things not to do after giving birth which can help you have an easier postpartum recovery and enjoy your new life as a mother.
Avoid Heavy Lifting
Postpartum recovery can be a challenging and emotional time for new mothers as they learn to care for their newborn while also allowing their bodies to heal.
Among the things not to do after giving birth, one of the most critical is to avoid heavy lifting.
Lifting heavy objects can lead to complications such as increased risk of infection, hernias, and tearing of the uterus.
In many cases, new mothers may feel obligated to do chores around the house, such as laundry or groceries, but it is essential to prioritize rest and recovery during this time.
To avoid heavy lifting, new mothers can consider enlisting the help of family or friends, using a home delivery service, or investing in products that can make daily tasks easier, such as a baby carrier that allows for hands-free movement.
It’s important to understand that taking it easy during the postpartum period is essential for proper healing and can ultimately lead to a quicker return to full health.
By avoiding heavy lifting and prioritizing self-care, new mothers can help ensure a healthy recovery and a strong start to their journey into motherhood.
Don’t Neglect to Rest
Becoming a new mom can be overwhelming.
You’re not only dealing with the physical recovery but also the emotional toll that comes with caring for a newborn.
It’s important to remember that your body needs the proper rest and sleep to heal and recover.
Don’t make the mistake of neglecting to rest.
Lack of sleep can lead to mood swings, irritability, and decreased milk supply.
If you find it difficult to fall asleep at night, try taking a warm bath before bed, using aromatherapy, or reading a book instead of scrolling through social media.
It is also essential to take advantage of daytime naps.
When the baby is sleeping, try to rest as well.
You don’t have to do laundry, clean the house, or prepare meals.
Ask for help from your partner, family, or friends so that you can take a break and focus on your recovery.
By prioritizing rest, you’ll have more energy, feel better overall, and be able to enjoy your new bundle of joy.
Avoid Sexual Intercourse
One of the things every new mom should know as they prepare for childbirth is that they should avoid sexual intercourse for the first six weeks postpartum.
This period is crucial for the body to heal and recover from the physical trauma of childbirth.
The vagina is still healing, and there may be some discomfort and tenderness in the area.
Additionally, the risk of infection is high as the cervix is still open, and there may be lochia, which is the discharge of debris from the uterus.
It is crucial to give the body time to heal, and any activity that puts pressure on the area might lead to complications.
Alternative ways to maintain intimacy with your partner include holding and cuddling, kissing, and touching.
However, talk with your partner and agree on what works for both of you before making any decisions.
Remember, abstaining from sexual intercourse for the first six weeks postpartum is a temporary measure that ensures your health and safety and is good for the baby.
The health of your baby also involves yours as the mother.
Don’t Skip Follow-Up Appointments
Postpartum recovery can be a challenging time for new mothers, both physically and emotionally.
In order to ensure a smooth and healthy recovery, it’s absolutely essential that new moms attend all of their follow-up appointments with healthcare providers.
Skipping these appointments can lead to serious complications and put both baby and mother at risk.
Your healthcare provider will be able to monitor your recovery progress and identify any potential issues early on, such as postpartum depression, infection, or other problems.
Additionally, your healthcare provider can provide you with valuable guidance and advice on topics such as breastfeeding, nutrition, and exercise during this time.
By attending all of your follow-up appointments, you can minimize the risk of serious complications and ensure that you are getting the care you need to fully recover after giving birth.
Avoid Strenuous Exercise
After giving birth, one of the most important things you can do is take care of yourself as your body goes through a healing and recovery process.
It is crucial not to engage in any strenuous exercise during this time, as it can put a significant amount of stress on your body.
Strenuous exercise can also lead to complications such as postpartum bleeding and weakening of the pelvic floor muscles.
Instead of high-risk exercises, it is recommended that you focus on low-impact activities such as walking, postpartum yoga, and light stretching.
These types of exercises will help improve circulation, aid in the healing process, and give your body the chance to recover at a safe and manageable pace.
It’s important to remember that every postpartum journey is different, so be sure to consult with your healthcare provider for guidance on when it’s safe to start exercising again and what type of exercises are best for your body type and level of recovery.
By taking the time to listen to your body’s needs and avoiding strenuous exercise, you can help ensure a smooth and healthy postpartum recovery.
Don’t Neglect a Healthy Diet
After giving birth, your body is in a delicate state and you need to take extra care in ensuring that you’re maintaining a healthy diet.
Your body has just undergone a major event and you need all the nutrients you can get to speed up your recovery process.
Proper nutrition is also crucial for lactation, the process of producing and supplying breast milk to your baby.
In fact, breastfeeding mothers require an additional 500 calories per day to keep up with their milk production.
To maintain a healthy diet during the postpartum period, aim for a balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins like chicken and fish.
Avoid consuming processed foods and sugary drinks.
If you’re finding it hard to consume enough nutrients, consider taking supplements specifically formulated for postpartum women.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and limit your caffeine intake as it may interfere with your sleep.
Eating small, frequent meals can also help to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.
Remember, a healthy diet is crucial for your recovery and for your baby’s nutrition!
Avoid Isolating Yourself
Giving birth is an incredibly life-changing experience that can leave new moms feeling physically, emotionally and mentally exhausted.
While it is natural to feel overwhelmed or want to keep to oneself, isolating oneself socially can be detrimental to one’s postpartum recovery.
Not only can it impact their mental health and lead to depression but it can also hinder the building of a support network which is crucial for new moms.
Social isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and inadequacy, making one feel even worse about oneself.
Talking to family members or close friends about what they are going through is one of the best ways for new moms to help their own mental well-being, effectively reducing stress levels and promoting a more positive outlook on life.
Building strong support networks consisting of people who have had similar experiences can also be a great way for new moms to gain access to resources, advice, and other types of support that may be helpful during this time.
While it can be difficult to put oneself out there after having a baby, it is important to remember that social support is an integral part of the recovery process and can make all the difference.
Therefore, in order to have successful postpartum recovery, new moms should try to avoid isolating themselves socially.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the postpartum recovery period is a crucial time for new mothers to take care of themselves.
It is important to avoid certain things that can hinder the healing process.
Firstly, do not overexert yourself physically and refrain from doing any strenuous activities, especially those that involve lifting heavy objects.
It is also essential to avoid any sexual activity for at least 4-6 weeks after giving birth.
Secondly, avoid consuming alcohol, caffeine, and other drugs as they can be detrimental to both you and your baby’s health.
Smoking should also be avoided as it can affect breast milk production among other risks.
Thirdly, prioritize your mental health by seeking professional help if needed, and avoid isolating yourself from loved ones.
Lastly, ensure that you are eating a healthy and well-balanced diet.
Remember to stay hydrated and get adequate rest.
By avoiding these things, you increase your chances of a healthy and safe postpartum recovery.
It is important to remember that each mother’s recovery is unique, so do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider and ask for guidance.
Take care of yourself and enjoy this new chapter in your life.
FAQs
How long does it take to recover from giving birth?
The postpartum recovery period can vary from woman to woman. However, it typically takes about six weeks for the body to heal from the physical changes of giving birth, though some mothers take longer. In addition to physical recovery, postpartum emotional and mental well-being can also take time to adjust and recover.
Is it okay to resume normal activities immediately after giving birth?
No, it is not okay to resume normal activities immediately after giving birth. It is important for new mothers to allow their bodies time to rest and heal after childbirth before engaging in strenuous physical activity or returning to their pre-pregnancy routine. Postpartum recovery can take several weeks or even months, and it is essential to prioritize self-care during this time to avoid complications and promote optimal healing.
What are some things I should avoid doing after giving birth?
After giving birth, there are some activities you should avoid to aid in your postpartum recovery. These include heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, taking baths, engaging in sexual activities, using tampons, and neglecting your mental health. It is important to consult with your doctor and follow their instructions to ensure a safe and healthy recovery.
Why is it important to rest as much as possible after giving birth?
Resting as much as possible after giving birth is crucial because your body needs time to heal. Giving birth is a serious physical event that affects your body in so many ways, including causing fatigue, pain, and soreness. Resting can help your body recover faster, reduce the risk of postpartum complications, and improve your overall well-being. It’s essential to prioritize your rest and recovery during the postpartum period to ensure long-term health and happiness for both you and your baby.
How long should I avoid having sex after giving birth?
It is generally recommended to wait until your postpartum bleeding (lochia) has stopped and you have your six-week postpartum checkup with your healthcare provider before having sex. However, every woman’s recovery is different, so it is important to discuss with your healthcare provider when it is safe for you to resume sexual activity.
When can I start exercising again after giving birth?
It is recommended to wait at least 6 weeks before exercising after giving birth. It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine when it’s safe to start exercising and what type of exercises are appropriate for your body’s postpartum recovery.
What are some warning signs to look out for during postpartum recovery?
Some warning signs to look out for during postpartum recovery include excessive bleeding, persistent pain, fever or chills, difficulty passing urine or stool, extreme fatigue, and signs of postpartum depression such as feeling excessively sad or anxious.
How can I manage postpartum pain?
After childbirth, pain relief medication can be prescribed by your doctor. Non-medical treatments include icing the perineal area, soaking in warm water, doing Kegel exercises, and wearing supportive underwear. Engage in gentle movements to promote recovery such as walking or stretching. However, it is crucial to rest and allow your body to heal slowly. Board-certified physical therapist can also assist in reducing pain and enhancing recovery.
What should I be eating to help my body recover after giving birth?
After giving birth, it is important to eat a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. It is also important to drink plenty of water and avoid processed foods or those high in sugar, caffeine, or alcohol.
How can I manage postpartum bleeding?
After giving birth, it is common to experience postpartum bleeding called lochia. To manage this, use heavy-duty pads - not tampons - and change them often. You should also avoid strenuous activities, rest often, and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider if you notice any excessive bleeding or passing of large clots.
What are some common postpartum complications, and how can I avoid them?
{“Hemorrhoids”: “Avoid straining during bowel movements and try to consume a high-fiber diet.”, “Postpartum depression”: “Talk to your healthcare provider, have a support system, get enough rest and sleep, make time for self-care and take medication if prescribed.”, “Infection”: “Maintain good hygiene and avoid inserting anything into the vagina for 6 weeks after birth.”, “Urinary or fecal incontinence”: “Do Kegel exercises regularly and avoid heavy lifting, which can put pressure on your pelvic floor.”, “Perineal pain”: “Use a sitz bath, apply a cold compress and use pain relievers recommended by your healthcare provider.”}
How can I ensure I am getting enough sleep as a new mom?
Getting enough sleep as a new mom can be tough, but it’s important to prioritize it as much as possible. Try to nap when your baby is sleeping, enlist the help of a partner, family member, or friend to take over baby duty for a few hours, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. It can also be helpful to practice good sleep hygiene by keeping your bedroom dark and quiet, avoiding screens before bed, and establishing a bedtime routine.
Is it okay to ask for help during the postpartum period?
Yes, it is absolutely okay and even recommended to ask for help during the postpartum period. The body goes through a lot of changes during and after childbirth, and taking care of a newborn can be very demanding. Asking for help from family, friends, or a professional can make a big difference in how a new mother recovers and copes with this period.
Can I breastfeed while recovering from giving birth?
Yes, you can breastfeed while recovering from giving birth. In fact, breastfeeding can help stimulate your uterus to contract and reduce the risk of postpartum bleeding. Make sure to get enough rest, eat a healthy diet, and stay hydrated to support your milk supply and postpartum recovery.