What to expect in First few Weeks After Delivery

Tuesday, March 03, 2015

During those first few weeks of being home with your baby, it’s easy to forget that you need care too. Every mom and dad will admit that they've spent a day in last night’s pajamas because they simply could not find the time to take a shower.

That’s okay. Your priority should be your baby first, you second and everything else afterwards – yes, that includes visits from well-meaning family and friends too.

Handling Visitors

A new baby in the family is a reason to celebrate and your family and friends will probably be clamouring at the door to get a peek at your precious bundle. Don’t be shy to turn down visitors if you’re not up to it and don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you like, make a rule for family and friends and ask that they bring along a meal when they visit, or that they hold the baby for a bit while you enjoy a relaxing bath.

Look after your body

Once you've given birth, your stomach won’t go back to being flat for a while. In fact, it’s pretty normal for new moms to leave the hospital with their baby in their arms, yet they still look pregnant! Don’t worry, your uterus could take up to two weeks to contract and your abdominal muscles will take a while to become firm again. If you do any postpartum exercise, take it very easy. Nobody expects you to look like a supermodel!

It’s very normal for mothers to have a vaginal discharge for six weeks after having their babies. This discharge, called lochia, consists of blood, bacteria and uterine lining as it is shed after birth. It should thin out and lessen as time goes on, but if it’s still quite severe and thick after a few weeks, call your doctor.

Make sure you check in with your gynecologist at your six week checkup. Most often, you’ll be able to coordinate your checkups with your child’s pediatrician or baby clinic and your gynecologist, so check with them if you can. That way you won’t have to make two trips out of the house for the essential six week checkups for you and your child.

-Image credit to Kelly Brown