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After Birth
Considerations When the birth is
over, there are still other considerations which usually are put on the backburner in the
time coming up to the birth.
You will need to
visit your doctor for 6 weeks after the birth to be examined to ensure that all is well
and your organs and insides have returned to normal.
You have just experienced a
physically traumatic event and it is only natural that you will not be feeling quite back
to normal in all areas.
You may have received
stitches and feel that you will never feel the same again. Warm salty baths may help the
area heal. Your naturopath may have some other creams to speed healing as well.
You could also experience
crampy pain while your uterus contracts back to its normal size.
Urinating could be painful
because of the tenderness in that region. See your doctor if you are experiencing extreme
difficulties.
Moving your bowels could pose
a problem as the last thing you want to do is to push again and risk tearing your stiches
and the area. Ask your midwife or doctor for a suppository. Alternatively you should eat
more fibre and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Also drink plenty of filtered water
throughout the day.
You could also be concerned
about your weight and shape. Admittedly, it does take some time to regain your
pre-pregnant shape again. However, with exercise and proper eating you will soon be back
to normal. Your uterus will also contract as you start breastfeeding.
Another concern for new
mothers is the prospect of having sex after childbirth. It is a matter of starting again
when you feel comfortable with it. At first the only things on your mind will be the
soreness you feel and getting the stitches out. It is also advisable to avoid getting any
infection in the area. As well as this, your vagina may not be as lubricated in the first
month or so after childbirth. At this time it is probably wise to practice other forms of
sex.
You may also be concerned
about the size of your vagina after giving birth. With pelvic exercises, time and a little
loving persistence you will regain your shape and size.
Some Useful General
Pregnancy & Baby Links
Child and Youth Health
Parenting
A very good Australian Government site with over 200 topics
Parenting SA
Excellent site with information about parenting from the Office for Families and
Children (SA)
Parent
News
Another very good site (U.S.) with lots of resources
Australian Nutrition Foundation
A great site with lots of information for professionals, students, and parents.
Australian Early Childhood Association
KidsHealth.Org
Lots and Lots of very good information.
Multiple Births
Association (SA)
A site for parents with or expecting multiple births; resources, contacts and support
services
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