Postnatal Care

Postnatal Care – Caring for You After Birth

The postnatal period is the time after childbirth when your body, mind, and emotions gradually recover. Proper care during this phase helps ensure your well-being and supports your baby’s healthy growth.

Your Body After Delivery

After childbirth, your body undergoes many natural changes:

• Vaginal bleeding (lochia) is normal and reduces over a few weeks
• Uterus slowly returns to its normal size
• Mild abdominal cramps may occur, especially during breastfeeding
• Stitches (if present) will heal gradually

Rest, hydration, and gentle movement help recovery.

Perineal and Wound Care

• Keep the area clean and dry
• Wash gently with warm water after passing urine or stools
• Change sanitary pads frequently
• If you have a cesarean wound, keep it clean and watch for redness or discharge

Report severe pain, swelling, fever, or foul-smelling discharge.

Breast Care and Feeding

• Start breastfeeding as early as possible
• Feed on demand, day and night
• Mild nipple discomfort is common initially
• Ensure proper latch to prevent soreness

Seek help if you notice breast redness, fever, or severe pain.

Nutrition and Hydration

Your body needs extra nourishment for healing and milk production:

• Eat balanced meals with proteins, fruits, vegetables, and iron-rich foods
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Continue prescribed supplements
• Avoid crash dieting during this period

Emotional Well-Being

Mood changes are common after childbirth.

• Feeling emotional or tearful in the first few days is normal
• Rest whenever possible
• Accept help from family and loved ones

If sadness, anxiety, or fear persists beyond two weeks, please seek medical support.

Physical Activity and Rest

• Gentle walking can be started early
• Pelvic floor exercises help recovery
• Avoid heavy lifting initially
• Adequate rest is essential for healing

Listen to your body and progress gradually.

Follow-Up Visits

Postnatal check-ups help ensure:

• Proper healing
• Blood pressure and anemia assessment
• Emotional well-being evaluation
• Guidance on contraception and future care

Attend all scheduled visits even if you feel well.

When to Seek Immediate Help

Contact us if you experience:

• Heavy bleeding soaking pads rapidly
• Fever or chills
• Severe abdominal pain
• Foul-smelling discharge
• Painful, red breasts with fever
• Persistent sadness or anxiety

Remember

You are not expected to “bounce back” immediately.
Healing takes time, care, and support.
We are always here for you and your baby.