The postnatal or postpartum period is the time after the birth in which your body recovers from preg-nancy and birth and you imagine your new role as a mum. This phase lasts about six to eight weeks and is very important for your physical and emotional health, as well as for your newborn.
Recovery and healing
After giving birth, your body needs time to recover. Your uterus contracts so it can return to its original size. Any birth injuries, such as perineal tears or caesarean section wounds, must heal. It’s normal to feel contractions in the first few days after giving birth. These are amplified by breastfeeding, as oxyto-cin is released. Oxytocin is a hormone that promotes the contractions of the uterus and strengthens the bond between mother and child.
Lochia
Lochia is natural bleeding that occurs after giving birth and can continue for several weeks. It consists of blood, mucus and tissue remnants of the uterine lining. At the beginning, lochia is red and heavy, but becomes lighter and weaker over time. Make sure to regularly change pads and do not use tampons to prevent infections.
Physical changes and recovery
Your body goes through many changes during the postpartum period. The breasts produce breast milk, which can lead to tension and sometimes painful milk stasis. Postnatal exercises can help you to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles. It is important to start with these exercises only when you feel ready and have the approval of your doctor or midwife.
Emotional adjustment
The postpartum period is also a time full of emotions. You may experience a roller coaster of emo-tions, from overwhelming joy to exhaustion and uncertainty. The “baby blues”, a phase of mood fluctu-ations, is normal in the first few days after birth and is caused by hormonal changes. If these feelings last longer or become very intense, it could be a case of postpartum depression. In this case, it’s im-portant to seek professional help.
The new role as parents
The first weeks with your newborn are a time to get to know and adapt to the new family situation. Take time to build a connection with your baby. Skin-to-skin contact, regular breastfeeding or feeding and shared rest periods promote this bond. Support each other as a couple and accept help from family and friends to make this time less stressful.
The postpartum period in brief:
- Your body needs time to recover from giving birth.
- Lochia is natural bleeding after birth.
- Postnatal exercises help with physical changes.
- Mood fluctuations are normal; get help if needed.
- Bonding with the baby and support from the family circle.
BimBubble tip
Give yourself and your baby plenty of rest and attention. It is completely ok to restrict visits in the first weeks in order to have the necessary peace and privacy. Don’t pressure yourself to do every-thing perfectly. Listen to your body and take the time you need to recover and enjoy your new role.