Research-backed
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Congratulation on being a mother! Now you have your precious little baby to look after but taking care of your mind and body is just as important. If you had a vaginal birth, your body has gone through a lot of changes and is now in the process of healing. Here are some tips that you need to know to help with the recovery of your body.
1. A Simple Ice Pack Can Go A Long Way
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Women may experience pain and swelling around the vaginal opening after childbirth. Using an ice pack can help numb the area and provide relief. You can make your own ice pack by pouring some corn syrup into a zipper bag and freezing it. It contains nothing harmful and stays squishy and flexible. Keep it on the vaginal area for a few minutes every few hours after delivery. You can do this for a couple of days after delivery.
2. Take Care Of Stitches
Women often get stitches around the perineum after a natural birth. Clean your lady parts with warm water, and stay hygienic to avoid any infections around the area.
3. Do Kegels
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Kegel exercise will help in strengthening the pelvic and vaginal muscles for faster recovery after normal delivery. You don’t have to join a gym to do Kegels. You can perform it comfortably at home but make sure you consult your doctor before doing so.
4. Check For Thyroid
Many women are at risk of getting postpartum thyroiditis within a year after delivery (1). So look out for signs such as weight loss, fatigue, anxiety, etc. It’s better to consult with your doctor and rule out the disease.
5. Start With A Few Steps A Day
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Start walking! It can be a few rounds around the house or the neighborhood. It’s important to keep your body moving for better recovery. It helps with increased blood circulation and muscle toning. Walking will help you with constipation that you are likely to experience post delivery.
6. Take A Sitz Bath
Taking a sitz bath will help in healing the perineum and provide relief at the same time. But remember to clean the tub or plastic bath before and after use, depending on what you are using.
7. Sleep Like A Baby
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You don’t need an explanation as to why it is important to sleep. Getting proper rest is important for both physical and emotional well being of a person. Having enough sleep will also speed up the healing process.
8. Look For Any Signs Of Infection
The process of recovery can be delayed by infections, and you certainly don’t want that to happen. Look for symptoms such as fever, significant swelling around the vaginal area, and foul-smelling discharge. Head to the doctor immediately if any of the symptoms occur, don’t wait around.
9. Take Care of Your Breasts
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Your breasts can be sore during the initial stages of breastfeeding. It can even start leaking at times, so it’s better to pump breastmilk a few times a day if your baby doesn’t drink your milk frequently.
10. Stock Up On Extra Maxi Pads
Women are likely to experience postpartum bleeding soon after delivery which is just like your period but heavier. It lasts for about 4 to 6 weeks, and your regular pad or tampon won’t suffice.
11. Eat Healthily
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Make sure you include lots of protein and fiber in your body for faster recovery. Also, drink plenty of water every day, or you can go for alternatives like tender coconut or fresh juices as well.
12. Don’t Skip On Doctor’s Appointment
Your doctor knows best if you are healing as needed and if everything is going good. You can also talk it out with your doctor if you feel too emotional, anxious, or depressed about being a new mum.
Life after childbirth can be an overwhelming experience and a struggle at the same time. Take things one step at a time and feel free to talk to your doctor or partner for any support that you may need. Following simple steps like getting a proper diet and good hygiene can help things get better quick.
