Intro: Take Care, Baby

The postpartum period is a period of six weeks from the delivery of the placenta. And it is really surprising to know that it is very much the same as advocated in many cultures, the 40 days for rest and sexual separation after childbirth.

HOSPITAL STAY POST DELIVERY: What should be the ideal duration?

Hospital stay after normal vaginal delivery should be 1 to 2 days, and in cesarean delivery, it should be 2 to 4 days . 5-10% may require a longer hospital stay, depending upon support available at home.

This rest is mandatory to ensure adequate reduction in the size of the uterus and healing of trauma caused by childbirth.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH POST-DELIVERY?

1.  Perineal pain,
2.  pain in cesarean stitches,
3.  difficulty in breastfeeding, 
4. urine infection,
5.  incontinence,
6. constipation,
7. headache 

Heavy bleeding is some. 

While some may have serious problems like infection and bleeding.

Normally, bleeding persists for 3 to 8 weeks. Menstrual cups can be safely used post-delivery.

WHEN CAN I RESTART HOUSEHOLD WORKS POST DELIVERY?

Restrictions on physical activity are not recommended, even in cesarean delivery.

Sometimes there are a few concerns regarding stitches and their care post-cesarean, but in maximum majority of cases, they do not cause any major discomfort or restrictions. In fact, it reduces stress, which is sometimes a major concern called post-delivery blues.

WHAT IS POSTPARTUM PSYCHOSIS?

It is very common; up to 20% of females have some degree of the problem, but a few cases may require medical consultation for the same.

Not being able to take care of the baby,

1. Lack of sleep, 
2. Poor appetite, 
3. Indigestion, 
4. Failure of lactation 
5. may be some of the manifestations.

WHEN CAN I START SEXUAL ACTIVITY POST DELIVERY?

In previous days, when contraception was not that prevalent and advanced, abstinence was used as a method of pregnancy prevention.

But these days, with good contraception options availability sexual activity may be resumed as per the desires and comfort of the lady.

After normal delivery without perineal stitches, it can be started after 10 to 14 days it can be started, but with perineal stitches somewhat longer time may be needed. 

Similarly, in cesarean delivery cases, it can be resumed as the woman finds herself comfortable.

WHAT ARE THE VARIOUS CONTRACEPTION OPTIONS POST DELIVERY?

1. It can be advised and started as soon as the baby is born, in the form of PPIUCD.
2. Injections are a good option and may be given at the first follow-up visit and are safe for lactating mothers.
3. Oral pills are avoided, as they may reduce milk production.
4. IUCDs are excellent long-term options.
5. The sterilization procedure may be done along with cesarean delivery, but it should be well thought out.

HOW DO I LOSE WEIGHT LOSS POST DELIVERY?

Approximately half of the total weight gain is reduced as the baby and placenta are delivered. 

Rest may require more effort, especially if the lady was previously obese or overweight.

LOW-FAT, HIGH-FIBRE DIET

1. ADEQUATE EXERCISE AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY,

They are the mainstay for weight reduction, but the process should start after 3 months, as before that the quality and quantity of milk may reduce.

1. BOOK NOW FOR A FREE WEBINAR.