I know, I know. You’re not thinking about what you’ll need postpartum because you’re so focused on what your baby will need as a newborn.
But hear me out: you both will need a lot of care you’ve never needed before, and that’s okay.
So many people will already be focused on the baby, both at the hospital and within your social circle, so it’s worth putting a little bit of thought into self-care after your baby is born.
From mom to mom, here’s what to expect postpartum:
What can I expect postpartum?
If you tear (which is SO normal and common), your recovery may take a bit longer than you expect. Give yourself some grace!
Pushing is one of the most nerve-wracking parts of labor. I mean, who is not a little terrified of a 20-inch baby coming out of them? One common occurrence during pushing is tearing. According to the Cleveland Clinic, up to 90% of women tear to some degree. Some women will have an episiotomy, or a small incision performed by your doctor to avoid a severe tear. All this means is that you may get stitches during the “golden hour” right after delivery (trust me, you’ll barely even notice this is happening as you’re soaking in the first few moments with your child). In the weeks that follow, moving around may be a bit more difficult as you’re healing. This is frustrating but temporary, and everything will return to normal down there soon enough!
Quick tip: Have pads of different sizes, Tucks pads, a peri bottle, and Dermaplast spray on hand. You’ll be given most of this at the hospital. This will help ease any discomfort and make your recovery easier.
Postpartum bleeding is different for everyone.
Most people know that they’re going to bleed postpartum, but no one can tell you how much you’ll bleed postpartum or for how long. I know friends who have had consistent bleeding for weeks postpartum, and I know friends who have only had a few days of heavy bleeding and then spotting for a few weeks postpartum. All of this is normal, and you won’t know which category you’ll fall into until after you deliver.
Tip: If you’re concerned about your postpartum bleeding, always reach out to your OBGYN. Abnormal bleeding signs include soaking a pad every hour, golf ball-sized clots, and dizziness. Read more about postpartum bleeding here.
One helpful note about postpartum bleeding: monitoring your bleeding is one of the best ways to know if you’re “doing too much” postpartum. If your bleeding has been slowing down, and you go for a walk and suddenly notice an increase in bleeding, you’re probably pushing yourself past your limit. Try your best to let yourself rest until your body shows you that you’re healed.
You’ve got this.
Postpartum is tender and beautiful all at once. If you’re concerned about anything you’re experiencing, reach out to your OBGYN. If you’re covered by Pregnancy Medicaid, your coverage extends for a full 12 months postpartum.
Chloe Belk
Chloe Belk is a Communications Coordinator at The Pregnancy Network.