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The changes in a new mum’s body cause concern for many. If you’ve just given birth to a baby, your body will no longer be the same.
It’s good to know how your body transforms after childbirth. You also need to bear in mind that your body not only changes physically but in other ways too. This is because bringing a new life on this planet is not just physically taxing but emotionally overwhelming too! Hence, new mommies need to take good care of their health while pregnant and after.
If you are wondering what these post-delivery changes are, especially in the first few days after giving birth, read on to know how you can stay prepared for the upcoming experiences.
1. Your Nether Areas Will Bleed
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In the week after childbirth, you’ll bleed. This could normally be heavy for most women. Called “lochia”, this blood is bright red and can have clots. If you notice bigger clots or a bad smell, inform your doctor about it. This should continue for four to six weeks in general. Eventually, the color will become light, pink, or reddish-brown (1).
2. You’ll Experience Postpartum Cramps
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Women often complain of cramp-like pains after childbirth. After-birth pains are common as the uterus will contract to get back to its pre-pregnancy size once the baby is delivered. This is also known as “involution” (2).
Women who’ve delivered babies before experience this more commonly than those who have just had their first baby.
3. Your Breasts Are Painful Or Change Shape
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As you begin to breastfeed, your body produces hormones that help shrink the size of your uterus. This is another way your body transforms after pregnancy. If the pain persists during breastfeeding or after, try a hot or cold compress on your back or belly. Alternatively, you can reach out to your doctor or midwife for advice (3).
4. You’ll Gain Weight
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The most notable change in a new mom’s body is the extra pounds and stretch marks. This is because your body releases the excess water in cells, placenta, or amniotic fluid (4). Women normally gain weight during pregnancy and after, and this can be shed with good nutrition, exercise, and sleep.
5. You’ll Feel Overwhelmed
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New mothers undergo emotional changes. You might notice experiencing mood swings like never before: elated to suddenly depressed. Many women tend to be more sensitive or teary in the initial days after childbirth. These feelings are normal and are known as “baby blues”. With the encouragement and support of your loved ones, these feelings subside in a week or two (5).
6. You’ll Be Sleep-Deprived
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Your baby will sleep and wake up at odd hours, which may disturb your routine. It’s hard to catch up on some uninterrupted sleep post-delivery. Therefore, it’s best to switch to a sleep schedule when the baby does. This will help you get some much-needed breaks (6).
7. Your Stitches Will Take Time To Heal
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If you’ve had a C-section or an episiotomy, you’ll need to take some extra care about your hygiene. Clean the area with warm water to aid the process of healing. After taking warm baths, dry yourself with extra caution. Avoid strenuous tasks and sit gently. Lie on your sides. Talk to your doctor if you notice anything unusual like heavy cramps, headaches, swelling, or wound pains.
8. You Might Need To Be Vaccinated
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Before you go home with your newborn, the doctor may advise you to be vexed. You might be offered mumps, measles, rubella vaccination (MMR) if your immunity was compromised (7).
9. You Might Stay At The Hospital Longer Than Expected
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Your stay at a private hospital will usually be more extended than a public hospital. Plus, if you’ve had a C-section, you might be discharged a little late. Also, your midwife may make some visits to your home once you are released from the hospital. If not, you can get a private midwife to visit you and offer support and answer your queries.
10. You’ll Have Many Visitors
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Many people might want to see you and your baby once you have delivered your baby. While that’s great, it might leave you feeling exhausted if you aren’t well-rested. You can choose how many visitors you’d like to have and when. If you feel unwell or too tired, you can opt-out and take enough rest instead.
New mothers need as much care as a baby. Hence, it’s crucial to take sufficient rest, have a good diet, plenty of water, and adopt a healthy lifestyle in general. Take time to savor the most beautiful moments with your little one and celebrate motherhood to its fullest. Which of these changes did you experience in the initial days after childbirth? Do share your experiences with us in the comments section below.
