5 tips to calmly overcome postpartum
Almost all women need advice to calmly overcome the postpartum. Bringing a new being into the world is not easy nor is it summarized in the suffering that comes with the pains of natural childbirth or cesarean section. There are other types of complications associated with childbirth of which almost nobody speaks.
The postpartum or puerperium is that period of time that goes from childbirth until the anatomical and physiological recovery of the woman occurs. Its duration depends on whether it was natural delivery or caesarean section, although on average it is 6 weeks. Most women know this moment as quarantine.
Challenges and situations that must be faced during the postpartum
The mishaps, lochia, the appearance of hemorrhoids and the care of the points of the cesarean section or episiotomy are just some of the challenges that the new mother must face.
Loquios
Loquios are a normal fluid expelled by the uterus during its involution and wound healing process left at the time of placental abruption. They are characterized by not having a bad smell and the amount of blood varies.
There are three types of lochia:
- The one for the first three days, which is fresh blood.
- The posterior that is paler
- A final yellowish one that concludes at 4-6 weeks.
Afterpains
These are painful uterine contractions that occur in the first days after delivery. They hurt less than those of childbirth because there is no dilation of the cervix. They appear due to the regression of the uterus to its usual state. This can take up to 6 weeks to complete.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum. During postpartum they can arise due to the effort of expulsion of the baby. One of the taboo things that no one mentions is the associated constipation.
Discover: External hemorrhoids: everything you need to know
Episiotomy and Cesarean Scar
Episiotomy is a incision made in the perineum during delivery. It is needed if the baby's shoulder is stuck behind the mother's pelvic bone, if the baby has an abnormal heart rate, or if you need an instrumented vaginal delivery.
Cesarean section, on the other hand, is a surgical procedure in which an incision is made in the mother's abdomen and uterus to remove a baby. This leaves scars that must be carefully treated in the postpartum period.
Lactation and breasts
Your body has spent all this time preparing for breastfeeding. Thus, this is one of the most sensitive areas during postpartum. Complications can appear, such as mastitis or nipple cracks.
5 tips to calmly overcome postpartum
As you can see, the postpartum period is not easy for any woman, so you need some advice to calmly overcome the postpartum. We tell you.
1. Caesarean section and episiotomy care
To care for the cesarean section wound you have to maintain the area, washing it with mild soap and water, without rubbing. If you have an episiotomy, keep the area around the stitches dry with a clean towel after each bath.
2. How to defecate with hemorrhoids after childbirth
You should not try too hard in the bathroom after childbirthso that you don't put excessive stress on the wound.
Therefore, it is recommended to eat foods with fiber, such as oatmeal, artichoke or whole wheat bread. You can also take a laxative or use glycerin suppositories. Remember that these should be prescribed by a professional so as not to make the mistake of worsening a constipation situation.
Read also: Postpartum: that delicate period
3. To reduce pain from wrongdoing
To reduce the discomfort due to wrinkles it is recommended to massage Slowly the uterus when there is any. This is to help the contraction be continuous and not cause such intense pain.
Frequent urination is also recommended, as a bladder full of urine makes it difficult for uterine contraction and makes it more painful. Another tip is to take pain relievers prescribed by a specialist. The latter is key, since if you are breastfeeding you cannot take any drug.
4. How to deal with lochia
In the case of lochia, care is simpler. Rest is recommended, avoid efforts and use feminine compresses with a high degree of absorption. Especially during the first days, when a greater volume of blood is lost.
5. For breastfeeding
Don't be overwhelmed during the first moments of breastfeeding. All women are different and it doesn't always start out the same. After a cesarean section it is common that milk does not come out at first, so do not despair if this is the case.
To start breastfeeding, you should find a comfortable place, get upright, and accommodate your baby. The suction will give your brain the signal to raise prolactin levels, which cause milk to be produced.
If the specialist diagnoses you with mastitis, it is recommended to avoid that the breasts are too full of milk before breastfeeding, apply cold compresses after doing so, wear a comfortable bra that supports well and rest as long as possible.
Lean on others to calmly overcome the postpartum
Motherhood is not easy and postpartum warns it. But these are challenges that women face and are always victorious.
You have to have patience, love, care and take time to be at peace. Support from others is key. Friends, partner and family are participants in the event and contribute to a healthy puerperium.
Most women can have a natural delivery after a cesarean section, without major inconvenience and successfully. Read more "