I love answering all of your most-asked Qs and lately, I’ve been getting a lot about postpartum. I rounded them up with all of the answers you need to know in today’s blog post! Of course, everyone is different so ALWAYS consult with your doctor for any questions or if you’re having any issues. If you have more questions, drop them in the comments so I can answer them! Now, let’s get into everything postpartum.
Do I need to take extra precautions while bathing?
Great question! After delivery, we typically recommend showers and using a Peri-Bottle to help watch the vulva and perineum. Make sure to gently pat down this area with a clean towel every time. Also, remember never to use fragrance-heavy soaps/irritants. You truly only need water, but I also like using Dove Sensitive Skin. If you had a C-section, it’s best not to scrub over your incision, just let the soapy water fall over the incision and rinse with warm water, then pat dry gently with a clean towel.
When will my periods return to normal?
This is going to depend! If you’re breastfeeding it may be months before you get your period back (especially if you’re exclusively breastfeeding). This is because breastfeeding (and high levels of Prolactin) will inhibit ovulation! On average, our periods will return anywhere from 5-12 weeks after delivery. Here’s a YouTube video where I go very in-depth into the postpartum period.
Is it normal to have mood swings?
Yes! Baby blues are very common and seen in the first 2 weeks after delivery. 80% of people feel sad or moody in the first few days after they give birth. It’s very normal to feel very happy, but also have periods of sadness, these Baby Blues typically go away by themselves in the first two weeks. If symptoms become severe and they last more than 2 weeks, this may be postpartum depression. I have an entire blog post where I explain postpartum depression here.
What should I do to help prevent post-delivery infections?
If you had a c-section make sure to keep the incision clean and dry. Don’t scrub the incision, let soapy warm water run down, rinse with warm water, and pat dry. Make sure to keep the area dry. For vaginal/perineum healing, if you have stitches these are typically self-absorbing (meaning you don’t need to get them removed!). Use a Peri-Bottle to keep this area clean. And remember–pelvic rest! Nothing inside the vagina until cleared by your doctor. No douching, intercourse, or tampon use!
What activities are safe to do in the first few days? Which activities should I avoid?
It’s encouraged for you to walk–going on walks and pushing the stroller is typically okay! Avoid strenuous exercise/workout routines until cleared by your doctor. After a c-section, healing is typically a lot longer, so please ask your doctor. Stand recommendation is no heavy lifting (nothing heavier than your baby) until cleared!
What can I do for postpartum pain?
I have an entire YouTube video on postpartum pain and healing! I explain in depth what you can do and give recommendations! It’s linked here.
How long do I have to wait before resuming sex?
Standard recommendation in 6 weeks, but please wait until you have a full exam by your doctor! We like to discuss this at your postpartum visit. Sex can feel different after a baby–so go see your medical care provider so we can discuss this further!
When can I start exercising again?
Similar to above, we typically recommended in 6-8 weeks, but if you had a c-section or other complication this may change.
