Taking care of yourself after is just as important as focusing on your new baby. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide on what to expect after a vaginal delivery and how to manage the physical and emotional changes.
1. Genital Discomfort or Itching
If you experienced a vaginal tear or required an incision during delivery, you might feel some discomfort for a couple of weeks. Healing from more severe tears may take longer. Here are some tips to ease the discomfort:
– Sit on something soft, like a cushion or a ring pillow.
– Use an ice pack or a pad soaked in witch hazel, placed between your sanitary napkin and the skin around your vaginal area (perineum).
– Pour warm water over the perineum while urinating by using a squeeze bottle.
– Take a few minutes to soak in a warm bath that covers your hips and buttocks. If cold feels better, use that instead!
– Use over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
If the pain is severe, constant, or getting worse, reach out to your doctor right away, as this could indicate an infection.
2. Vaginal Discharge
After giving birth, your body will expel the mucous membrane and blood lining your uterus during pregnancy. Initially, this discharge is heavy and bloody but will gradually become lighter, more watery, and change in color from pinkish-brown to yellowish-white over a few weeks.
If you notice excessive bleeding (soaking a pad within an hour), especially with pelvic pain, tenderness, or fever, let your doctor know immediately.
3. Contractions
You may experience contractions, often called afterpains, in the first few days after delivery. These are like period cramps and are essential to help your uterus shrink back to size and prevent excessive bleeding. Breastfeeding, which stimulates the hormone oxytocin, can sometimes make these cramps more noticeable. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help if needed—just ask your doctor for guidance.
4. Incontinence
Pregnancy and vaginal delivery can stretch or weaken the pelvic floor muscles, which may lead to occasional bladder leaks, especially when laughing, coughing, or sneezing. For most women, this improves after a few weeks, but some cases might take longer.
To help regain control, try pelvic floor exercises (Kegels). Imagine lifting a small object—like a marble—using your pelvic muscles, and squeeze for three seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat this exercise several times a day, gradually increasing the repetitions over time. In the meantime, using panty liners or incontinence pads can be handy.
5. Breast Changes
A few days after delivery, your breasts might feel swollen, firm, and even painful due to engorgement. Nursing frequently can reduce this. If your baby has trouble latching, express a little milk before feeding to make it easier. A warm shower or warm compress can ease soreness before breastfeeding, while a cold compress afterward can help with swelling. Over-the-counter painkillers may also provide relief.
If you’re not nursing, wearing a snug, supportive bra and avoiding pumping or expressing milk will help your body adjust and gradually stop producing milk.
6. Hair and Skin Changes
Pregnancy hormones can give you fuller hair, but after the baby is born, you may notice increased hair shedding for up to five months. It’s part of the natural cycle and will balance out over time.
Stretch marks might not disappear, but they should fade from red to silvery lines over time. Any dark skin patches from pregnancy, like those on your face, may also lighten gradually after delivery.
7. Weight Loss
It’s completely normal to look like you’re still pregnant right after giving birth. On average, women lose around 13 pounds (6 kilograms) during childbirth from the baby, placenta, and amniotic fluid. Over the first few days, you’ll shed more weight as your body gets rid of extra fluids. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help you gradually return to your pre-pregnancy weight.
8. Postpartum Checkups
Postpartum care doesn’t stop at a single checkup—it’s an ongoing process. Schedule a visit with your doctor within the first three weeks after delivery. A full postpartum exam should happen within 12 weeks.
During this visit, your doctor will check on your physical and mental health, discuss things like birth control or family planning, and talk about how to care for and feed your baby. They’ll also perform a full physical exam and address any concerns you have, like sleep, fatigue, or resuming sexual activity.
Taking care of yourself during this time is crucial for a smooth recovery and transition into motherhood. Don’t hesitate to share questions or concerns with your doctor—they’re there to help as you navigate this new chapter.
