Planning for postpartum recovery enables new moms to feel primed for their babies’ arrivals
The nine months of pregnancy are often filled with preparation for your new bundle of joy. Tasks like completing a baby registry, attending birthing classes and picking out names add to the excitement of the pending birth. The team at our San Antonio women’s clinic stands ready to assist you as you plan for childbirth and postpartum recovery.
What happens during childbirth?
Whether it happens on its own or you have an induction, labor is the body’s way of delivering your baby into the world. Vaginal delivery is most common; however, some women must deliver via Cesarean section, or c-section, to protect the health of the mother and/or the baby.
With a vaginal delivery, you progress through three stages of labor. With a c-section, your doctor will surgically remove the baby from your uterus. No matter the method of childbirth, giving birth takes a physical and emotional toll on your body.
Reviewing a typical postpartum experience
Once the baby arrives, much of the focus and energy centers on welcoming the new baby into your family and into your life. During this exciting time, our San Antonio women’s clinic doctors want to ensure that our patients also commit to their postpartum recovery. Fully recovering from pregnancy and childbirth takes weeks, if not months. During this time, patients often encounter the following symptoms.
- Soreness and pain in the perineal area
- Vaginal discharge
- Constipation
- Contractions during uterine shrinkage
- Breast swelling and soreness
- Hair loss
- Incision recovery, if you require a c-section
- Feeling teary and sad
Tips for optimizing your postpartum recovery
Because your baby depends on you for everything, self-care during recovery is critical. While you may find it difficult, resting and taking care of yourself will help you get back to a normal rhythm. Consider the following suggestions during postpartum recovery.
- Drinking plenty of water and eating healthy foods, such as lean protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, will help you keep up your strength and promote healing.
- Take extra care of the perineal area, your breasts, and your incision if you had a c-section.
- Ask for help from your partner, family and close friends. Recruit your tribe for meal trains, light housecleaning and other chores, so that you can focus on yourself and the baby.
- Accept that you may feel emotional and even sad. If these feelings linger or become overwhelming, talk to your doctor.
Welcoming a new baby brings joy and excitement into your life. This time can also leave you feeling out of sorts and overwhelmed. If you have questions or concerns about your postpartum recovery, don’t hesitate to contact our office.
