Postnatal recovery: What to expect
Congratulations, after nine months of waiting you are officially a mum!
While much of your focus and energy during the coming months will be on your new baby, it is also important to look after yourself and help your body recover.
No matter how you gave birth, the first six weeks following your baby’s birth is known as the postnatal period. During this period your body will experience a number of changes ranging from the physical healing after childbirth to hormonal mood changes.
Keep in mind that every new mum is different and may experience different signs and symptoms postnatal, affecting the rate at which you recover. As a result, it is important to pay attention to your body and notice any changes with your own body as you heal, checking in with your doctor when you have concerns.
Why are the signs and symptoms associated with postnatal recovery?
Common post-partum signs and symptoms you may experience during your postnatal recovery include:
- Vaginal bleeding and discharge
- Abdominal pain (also known as “afterpains”)
- Baby blues
- Hormonal shifts
- Hemorrhoids
- Perineum soreness
- Sore nipples and breasts
- Constipation
- Water retention
How can I improve my postnatal recovery?
To help you heal and feel better, we recommend trying the following tips to speed up your postnatal recovery:
- To ease pain and swelling around your perineum place an icepack on the area every few hours for the first 24 hours post-birth
- If you have had a C-section, ensure your incision remains clean using soap and water
- Ensure you have had your 6-week postpartum clearance by your doctor first before exercising
- Consider visiting a pelvic floor physiotherapist for an assessment before exercising
- Maintain a healthy balanced diet and ensure you stay hydrated
- Wear a supportive well-fitted bra
- When returning to exercise, start slowly
- Prioritise rest
When should I see my doctor or physiotherapist?
Although you may experience some discomfort as you heal from your delivery, paying attention to your body and altering your doctor to any significant changes is important to look after your own health.
We recommend consulting your doctor and physiotherapy team if you experience any of the following signs and symptoms:
- Excessive vaginal bleeding that soaks more than one pad an hour
- Heavy vaginal bleeding that increases each day
- Passing large blood clots
- Vaginal discharge with a strong odour
- Chills and/or fever
- Vomiting
- Fainting or dizziness
- Changes to your vision
- Persistent severe headache
- Painful or difficult urination
- New abdominal pain or increasing existing abdominal pain
- Increase in swelling
If you have concerns about your postnatal recovery impacting your life and athletic performance, we encourage you to get in touch with us. We have a network of specialised General Practitioners, gynaecologists and fertility specialists across Australia who will be more than happy to speak with you and discuss your individual circumstances.
With over 50 dedicated specialists across 70 consulting locations throughout the country, our friendly staff can help you choose the right medical professional to guide you and help you achieve your sporting goals. Contact us now.
