Taking Care of Yourself After Birth
The postpartum period is a challenging time for new mothers. After giving birth, they must adjust to physical and emotional changes while learning how to care for their newborn. To rebuild strength during this period, it is important for new mothers to get plenty of rest, eat nutritious meals, and ask for help when needed.
Getting enough rest is essential during the postpartum period. New mothers should take advantage of any opportunity to sleep when their baby sleeps.
It can also be helpful to accept practical help around the home from family and friends so that much-needed rest can be obtained. Eating a healthy diet with an increased intake of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and protein is also important for new mothers as they recover from childbirth.
Additionally, increasing fluid intake is especially important if you are breast-feeding your baby. Finally, exercise should be done when cleared by your doctor – start with light activity such as taking a walk or doing some stretching exercises at home.
Recent mothers have a lot of responsibilities and it’s important to take good care of their health as well. Check out our guide for activities that can help new mothers stay healthy postpartum.
06 Things You Need After Having a Baby
Having a baby is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming. There are so many things to consider and prepare for before the big day arrives. After the baby is born, there are even more items that new moms need to make post-birth days more comfortable. This includes Tylenol, maxi pads, and a vaginal anesthetic to help with any discomfort or pain.
Babies come with their own list of essentials such as diapers, bottles, pacifiers, bibs, burp cloths and teethers. Postpartum life can be tough but having the right items can help decrease discomfort and have you feeling like yourself again.
It’s important to know your rights regarding hospital stays following childbirth. Depending on your health plan coverage you may be able to stay in the hospital longer than the standard 48 hours after giving birth.
Rest and sleep
Rest and sleep are essential for new mothers, especially in the first few weeks after giving birth. It is important to allow someone else to take care of responsibilities other than feeding and taking care of yourself during this time.
Taking advantage of any opportunity to sleep when the baby sleeps, even if it’s only a few minutes at a time, can help new mothers get the rest they need. Additionally, getting outside for a few minutes each day can help with mental health and provide some much needed fresh air.
Dr. Kirtly Jones from the University of Utah Health recently discussed the Chinese custom of “Sitting the Month,” which involves women staying inside for a month after giving birth. The Scope covers all aspects of women’s health, including rituals practiced after having a baby.
Dr. Jones examines whether or not it is beneficial for women to rest for a month after childbirth and how this practice could be beneficial in helping new mothers recover from childbirth and adjust to their new role as mother.
Exercise
Regular physical activity during pregnancy is beneficial for both mother and baby. It can help to gain appropriate amounts of weight, reduce backaches, leg cramps and bloating, as well as reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and postpartum depression.
Physical activity may also reduce the risk of preeclampsia, shorten labor and postpartum recovery time, and reduce the risk of having a C-section. Women who were physically active before pregnancy may not need to change their exercise habits; however, childcare for other children, lack of prior exercise experience or knowledge can make it difficult to be physically active.
Walking is a great way to get back in shape during pregnancy. Joining an exercise class is also a good way to get daily exercise. Local fitness clubs and community centers offer classes such as yoga, Pilates, spinning, and dance that are tailored specifically for pregnant women.
Eat a healthy diet
Eating a healthy diet during pregnancy is essential for the health of both mother and baby. It is important to consume foods that are high in nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products.
Eating a variety of these foods will help ensure that you and your baby get all the necessary vitamins and minerals needed for proper growth and development. Additionally, it is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
It is also important to limit certain foods during pregnancy. Foods with added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium should be limited as much as possible.
Refined grains and starches like cookies, white bread, and some snack foods should also be avoided or eaten in moderation. Speak to a health care professional about your weight gain to ensure you are getting the right number of calories for you and your baby’s needs.
Seek medical attention if needed
It is important to seek medical attention if needed in order to ensure that you are receiving the best care possible. When visiting your health care provider, it is important to communicate clearly and ask questions so that you can make informed decisions about your health.
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality provides resources to help you get the most out of your visit, including questions to ask a provider.
Postpartum depression is a serious condition that requires medical treatment. Symptoms may include feelings of guilt and worthlessness, loss of interest in daily activities, and thoughts of harming the baby.
Postpartum depression can develop up to a year after delivery, so it is important to speak with your doctor if you experience any symptoms lasting longer than two weeks. Seeking medical attention as soon as possible will help ensure that you receive the best care possible for postpartum depression.
Take care of mental and emotional well-being
Taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is essential for new parents. It can be difficult to adjust to life with a newborn, so it’s important to take time for yourself and get the support you need. Communicating effectively with your health care provider can help ensure that you receive the best possible care.
Reading tips for talking with your health care provider before visiting them can help you get the most out of your visit. Additionally, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality provides additional resources, including questions to ask a provider.
It’s also important to take steps to physically recover from childbirth. Getting plenty of rest and avoiding heavy lifting are key components in helping your body heal.
Washing your hands often will prevent the spread of germs, while limiting stair climbing during the first week after delivery will reduce strain on your body.
Seek support for breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is an important part of a baby’s development, providing them with the essential nutrients they need to grow and thrive. Breast milk is packed with vitamins, minerals, and other important nutrients that are tailored to meet the needs of each individual baby.
It also helps boost their immune system, protecting them from common illnesses like ear infections and diarrhea. When breastfeeding, it’s important to consider your own calorie needs as well; talk to a health care professional about what you should be eating while breastfeeding.
In addition to nutrition, skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby is also incredibly beneficial for both parties.
Immediate skin-to-skin contact for at least an hour after birth has been linked to improved breastfeeding outcomes such as exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge, longer durations of breastfeeding, and exclusive breastfeeding after discharge.
