1. Vaginal Soreness

If you had a vaginal tear or an episiotomy (a small cut made to assist delivery), the area may feel sore for a few weeks. Larger tears may take longer to heal. Here’s how to ease discomfort:

• Sit on a pillow or padded ring to relieve pressure.
• Use ice packs or chilled witch hazel pads to reduce swelling.
• Rinse with warm water using a squirt bottle after urinating.
• Take warm or cool sitz baths for relief.
• Consider over-the-counter pain relievers or numbing sprays (ask your doctor first).
• If pain worsens or persists, consult your doctor—it could be a sign of infection.

2. Vaginal Discharge (Lochia)

After birth, your body sheds blood, mucus, and tissue from the uterus. This discharge, called lochia, changes color over time:

• Bright red for the first few days.
• Darker red, then yellow or white, over the next 4 to 6 weeks.

🚨 When to call your doctor: If you soak a pad every hour for two hours in a row, especially with fever, pelvic pain, or tenderness.

3. Postpartum Contractions (Afterpains)

Mild contractions, known as afterpains, help your uterus shrink back to size and prevent excessive bleeding. They may feel like menstrual cramps, especially during breastfeeding.

• Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help.
• Rest and deep breathing exercises may also provide relief.

4. Urinary Leaking (Incontinence)

Pregnancy and childbirth can weaken your pelvic floor, causing urine leakage when you sneeze, cough, or laugh.

• Do Kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles.
• Wear a sanitary pad until the leaking improves.
• If incontinence continues, seek pelvic floor therapy.

5. Hemorrhoids & Constipation

Painful bowel movements and swollen veins around the anus (hemorrhoids) are common after delivery. To manage them:

• Use witch hazel pads or a hemorrhoid cream.
• Take sitz baths with warm water for 10-15 minutes.
• Eat high-fiber foods and stay hydrated to prevent constipation.
• Ask your doctor about stool softeners if needed.

6. Breast Engorgement & Soreness

Your breasts may feel full, firm, and sore as they adjust to producing milk.

• Breastfeed frequently to prevent engorgement.
• Apply warm compresses before feeding and cold packs after.
• If you’re not breastfeeding, wear a supportive bra and avoid pumping.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort.

7. Hair Loss & Skin Changes

Postpartum hair loss is normal and usually stops within five months. Stretch marks and dark patches on your skin will also fade gradually.

8. Mood Swings & Emotional Changes

Feeling emotional ups and downs? The “baby blues” are common, lasting up to two weeks. Symptoms include:
✅ Mood swings
✅ Crying spells
✅ Anxiety
✅ Trouble sleeping

If sadness, exhaustion, or lack of joy continue beyond two weeks, it could be postpartum depression. Seek help if:

• You have trouble bonding with your baby.
• You feel overwhelmed or uninterested in daily activities.
• You have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby.

Postpartum depression is treatable. Therapy, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medication can help. Don’t hesitate to reach out.

9. Postpartum Weight Loss

It’s normal to still look pregnant after birth. Most new moms lose around 6 kg (13 lbs.) during delivery. With healthy eating and gentle exercise, your body will gradually return to pre-pregnancy shape.

10. Postpartum Checkups: Your Health Matters

Postpartum care is an ongoing journey. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends:

• 2 to 3 weeks after birth: Check in with your doctor to discuss recovery, mood, and any concerns.
• 6 to 12 weeks after birth: A full postpartum checkup, including a physical exam and discussions about:
  ✅ Emotional well-being & sleep
  ✅ Birth control & family planning
  ✅ Baby care & breastfeeding
  ✅ Pain during sex & libido changes

Motherhood is beautiful, but it comes with challenges. Prioritizing your postpartum recovery allows you to feel your best while caring for your newborn.

If you have concerns or need guidance, Saivie is here to support you. Book a consultation for personalized postpartum care. 💕

📍 Saivie | Best Gynecologist in Shapoorji Newtown | Dr. Sai Dibyadarshini Bhuyan
📍 HG77+M3, Chhapna Panchayat Rd, Action Area III, Newtown, Kolkata, West Bengal 700156
📞 Call: 081003 91119