RECOVERING FROM A VAGINAL BIRTH
Written by Feba Maryann
Childbirth can be quite an eventful experience, and in that case recovery from unprecedented circumstances needs preparation right from its fledgling period. So, knowing what to expect can aid better, in the healing process.
The physical turmoil that your body goes through whilst giving birth and post-birth is incomparable. Here are some common postpartum issues to be wary of and how to deal with them.
Continued Contractions Of The Uterus.
Even after giving birth, mothers experience continued contractions by the uterus that can lead to bleeding. This is normal but heavy bleeding isn’t. The curative measures taken in such cases are following medication as per the standard dosage of pain relief drugs that contain oxytocin.
Dissoluteness Of Urine Or Faeces.
The process of parturition includes the recurrent stretching of the urinary muscles and as a result of exhaustion, you can’t expect things to be normal at least for some time. That can mean the loss of continence over your bowel, leading to accidental seepage of urine or faeces in the most exciting or petrified situations.
As this phenomenon presents itself to be too embarrassing and unaffordable at momentous circumstances, its recovery calls for regular practice of strengthening exercises like Kegels and bladder training. You can also make use of a peri bottle, which is a small container that comes in handy when you need to keep the squirt handheld in the direst of situations.
Assessment Of Lochia
The vaginal discharge that is produces by the female body, which is generally heavier than your usual period due to the presence of clots, goes by the name of lochia. It is quite inevitable but the good news is that its evaluation proves to be a litmus test for checking for infections.
The overall characteristic colour of lochia is bright red but can eventually fade off to whitish hues. But if the lochia smells awful, that’s your cue to treat an infection down there.
Postpartum Weight Gain
Carrying a baby is essentially the extension of your womb. So, it’s normal that the skin upon it experiences the stretch too. Now, in that case, gaining a few extra pounds is customary. So be comfortable in your skin, and just live in the moment (more like taking good rest at the moment). Usually, your total weight may even go up to 13 pounds that comprises the weight of your baby too. After a recommended gap of six weeks, following your postpartum check-up, you can start working out to lose the extra fat.
Aching Breasts
Breastfeeding is essential for the wellness of both the mother and child. Lactation can lead to painful breasts as the secretion of milk via the ducts of mammary glands may sometimes even clog. As this causes ache and irritability to the mother, it may feel demanding and traumatic. Taking quick warm water showers, using warm compresses or even gentle massages act as a remedy to the rescue.
Alimentary Stoppage
The initial bowel movement may commence a few days after the delivery. But the weakening of the muscles and the swelling of veins down there can make it quite excruciating. Recovery in the case of minor cases of haemorrhoids need no treatment as they clear up in a few days, however in severe cases, consulting a doctor would be wise.
Painful Stitches
Though the process of vaginal birth is considered to be more facile than a painful c-section, it still does include a stage where your vagina almost tears open when the newborn’s head bulges out. So, the stitches play a key role in healing most of these memorable wounds. The process of episiotomy leaves an unendurable impact for the first few days that could turn even walking, sneezing, or laughing into a hassle. For some fast relief try using disposable ice packs to soothe the area next to your vagina. Also, try using a sitz bath that is filled with warm water, because as it increases the inflow of blood towards the area, it helps in faster healing.
Thermostat Imbalance
After giving birth, your body needs to get accustomed to the new hormones that are induced within. Ergo, when the body doesn’t get enough time to set in, it gets chaotic but switches between hold and cold temperatures. Preserving a balanced inner thermostat is imperative for a speedy recovery post-childbirth. Make sure you stay hydrated and stay cool and practice regular exercise like Pilates to maintain the equilibrium.
Be Aware Of Yourself And Your Emotions
Right from the inceptive stages of pregnancy till postpartum, the whole process is a series of both exciting and strenuous moments. This can take a toll on a mother’s mind emotionally, and sometimes, the experience may turn into trauma. Try to stay calm, and not overdo it all. It is okay if you and your partner have slightly contrasting emotions in the same phase. Take help from a doctor if needed.