An Overview of Postpartum Recovery
The female body is able to do one of the most remarkable things – grow another human being. After nine months of pregnancy and then childbirth, the body must begin its postpartum recovery. Many women in the Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas area tend to focus on the newborn baby and lose a little focus on their own health, but women need to take care of themselves too. Recovery after birth often leads to new side effects not associated with pregnancy. The Plano obstetricians at Women’s Specialists of Plano are available to address any postpartum symptoms a new mother experiences.
What is the Postpartum Recovery Period?
The postpartum recovery period is considered the first six weeks after delivery. During this time, the body begins to recover from the tremendous task of making and then delivering a baby into the world.
The majority, if not all, postpartum symptoms are temporary and ease up over time. Some new mothers bounce back within a week or two, while other new moms require a little more time to recover. During recovery after birth, it is important women do not become frustrated and overwhelmed with the numerous body changes. Additional stress can often lead to even more unwanted symptoms. The best thing all new moms can do is get enough rest, eat well and take breaks throughout the day.
Recovery After Birth – What to Expect
During the first six weeks after childbirth, women should pay close attention to their bodies. The human body is a remarkable thing and will let a new mother know when it is time to rest and eat a balanced healthy meal.
Even though all postpartum symptoms vary from woman to woman in intensity and duration, there are a number of symptoms almost all women can expect. Common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain- These “afterpains” are a key part of recovery after birth and indicate that the uterus is shrinking back to its normal size and shape.
- Constipation- The inability to have normal bowel movements is quite common after childbirth. Constipation is typically caused by pain-relieving medications and/or fear of a bowel movement causing additional pain as the body heals.
- Hemorrhoids- Many women develop hemorrhoids during pregnancy or during the pushing stages of delivery, but the condition typically heals over time without medical assistance.
- Sore breast and nipples- During the first few days of breastfeeding, it is common for the breasts and nipples to be sore. If the soreness continues past a few days or one week, the baby may not be latching correctly.
- Vaginal bleeding and discharge- These postpartum symptoms are very common and are the body’s way of eliminating any extra blood and tissue.
- Hormonal shifts- Hormone changes often lead to water retention, the “baby blues,” sweating and hair loss. All of these symptoms are temporary and discontinue as the body recovers.
If you live in the Plano, Frisco and Dallas, Texas communities and would like additional information on recovery after birth, or would like to discuss your postpartum symptoms, please contact the Plano obstetricians at Women’s Specialists of Plano.