Postpartum Care

What to expect after your baby is born

Bonding

Emotional, psychological connection between baby and parent

Recovery takes 6 weeks!

Puerperium – 42 days (6 weeks) after delivery – recovery periodInvolution – uterus returns to normal size and shapeWeight loss – 17 to 20 lbs., more if you breastfeedLochia – uterus sheds its lining – 10 days to 6 weeks

Recovery (continued)

Lactation begins about 72 hours after delivery

Colostrum – first milk – contains antibodies

Weakness in pelvic floor muscles – do Kegel exercisesPerineal pain (especially if there was an episiotomy or perineal tear) – ice, warm water

Recovery (continued)

Recovery takes longer after a Cesarean deliveryFertility may resume as soon as 6 weeks after delivery; 3+ months if you breastfeedEmotional ups and downs are common

Postpartum Depression

“Baby Blues” Caused by hormonal changesMay last 2 – 4 months; more common with 2nd or subsequent pregnancies

Symptoms of Post-Partum Depression

Loss of interestGuiltAgitation Difficulty concentratingAppetite up and downFeeling inadequate

Exhaustion Highly anxiousLoss of energySleep disturbancesFeelings of helplessnessSuicidal ideations