In pregnancy, you spend time envisioning life with the baby. Will they look like you? How will they sleep? Will you sleep? After pregnancy, you can forget what it’s like not to be pregnant. However, the reality is that it takes time to mentally and physically adjust to the new baby and new self after delivery.
People rarely talk about the recovery and healing process, including the messier parts, that new mothers go through. Women often focus on labor and delivery without knowing what to expect afterward. However, having information is empowering, and with support, you can confidently navigate the pregnancy and postpartum journey. Here are some key things to know about the first weeks and months after delivery.
The Fourth Trimester
The birth of the baby may seem like the end of a journey, but it’s the start of a new one. The period can be simultaneously beautiful, challenging, messy, and joyful. The first three months after birth are referred to as the fourth trimester, as you and the baby experience rapid changes similar to during pregnancy.
Regardless of how you deliver, you might have stitches. Even if you want to breastfeed, your baby may struggle with latching. You might experience pain while caring for your little one on minimal sleep. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Lean on your loved ones and seek support from a care team, including obstetricians, therapists, and lactation consultants, who offer expertise and empathy.
There Will Probably Be Temporary Hair Loss
During pregnancy, your hair may have become thicker and stronger. However, at birth, you might notice more hair in your hairbrush or shower drain. Some degree of postpartum hair loss affects most women in the first six months after delivery. It is frustrating, but don’t worry — once your hormones reset, the shedding will slow, and your hair will return to normal.
It Can Be Tough to Get Your Body Back
Many factors, from genetics to diet to breastfeeding, influence how you may or may not lose weight after pregnancy. However, it is crucial to give your body a grace period. Remember, your new baby does not care what size you are. The important thing is relaxing, healing, and bond with the baby. You may want to go for breast reduction to reduce the size of the breasts and having an expert to work on the procedure will save you from getting frustrated in the future. However, it is vital to wait until you finish breastfeeding.
Many also struggle with diastasis recti. It is the separation of the abdominal muscles that occurs during pregnancy. This condition can resolve on its own, but up to forty percent of new moms may still experience it six months postpartum.
Fortunately, physical therapists can help. Some therapy-approved exercises and treatments target specific areas. You can try the posterior pelvic tilt if you experience pain, leaking, or weakness. The exercise is easy and helps engage cores, bring awareness to the pelvises, focus on breathing and relaxation, and safely strengthen your core and back as you continue to lift the new baby.
Holding Off Intimacy
Your doctor may advise you to wait until sometime after your six-week checkup before resuming intimate activity. Some women may need additional time before intimacy is safe or enjoyable. If you experience genital pain postpartum, suspect scar tissue, or had vaginal repair for an extensive laceration during delivery, consult your doctor before getting intimate.
By around six weeks, your lochia should stop, and you might feel less sore. However, decreased estrogen levels postpartum can cause changes to the genital tissues, including thinning and vaginal dryness. This dryness can persist while breastfeeding, even after six weeks postpartum. Due to low estrogen levels, intimate contact may be uncomfortable; using lubricants and vaginal moisturizers can help improve comfort during intimacy.
Your Mental Health Is Important
During and after pregnancy, hormones can impact the body and mind, leading to various emotions. Many mothers experience postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety with varying degrees of severity. It is common to have the symptoms due to hormonal changes. However, if you find troubling thoughts or feelings of sadness and desperation, it might be a good idea to talk to the doctor.
In Summary
Parenthood is challenging and doesn’t follow a textbook. It’s a unique experience for al. Hopefully, you find peace and comfort on the journey through parenthood. Remember that you matter, and it’s okay to ask for help if you feel struggling in your postpartum journey. Give the body time to heal and accept the changes that come along the way.
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