Bringing a baby into the world is life-changing… but what happens after? The postpartum period is a rollercoaster of recovery, emotions, and new routines.
Stacy Chow, Founder of Baby Express and a seasoned Lactation Consultant & Postpartum Doula, shares the essential do’s and don’ts to help new moms navigate this crucial stage with confidence and care.
You can visit this thread to see the full conversation.
Recovery and Healing
Q: What are the do’s and don’ts of postpartum sex?
Stacy: Most doctors recommend waiting about six weeks after birth to resume sex. Like exercising, go slow, especially if you had an episiotomy. Communicate with your partner about your concerns. It is normal to feel fear and discomfort during the initial stages. Using lubricants can help, as vaginal dryness is common due to hormonal changes and breastfeeding.
Q: How much rest is recommended after giving birth?
Stacy: It is okay to return to your routine after birth. There is no need to sleep more than usual. If you cannot get an eight-hour night’s rest, try taking naps during the day when you feel tired.
Q: What are some effective ways to manage postpartum discomfort and pain?
Stacy: There are many products available to ease pain and discomfort. Your doctor or clinic can recommend some options. After a natural birth, a doughnut pillow or perineal ice pad may help ease the pain. Cool or warm pads can relieve engorgement and breast pain. If the pain persists, consider painkillers prescribed by your doctor.
Q: How do you gradually resume daily activities and responsibilities while avoiding overexertion?
Stacy: Start with essential tasks, such as washing clothes, but postpone non-urgent ones like folding them. Accept help from family and friends when possible. Outsource tasks such as ordering food instead of cooking or hiring cleaning services. Rest when you are tired, even if the house is messy—it is normal with a newborn.
Q: What are the potential risks of overexertion during postpartum, and how much exercise is advisable?
Stacy: Start slow and ease back into your routine. Your stamina may be lower than before birth, so allow yourself time. If you had a C-section, avoid exercises that stress the incision area.
Q: Are there specific activities or movements that new mothers should avoid to prevent strain or injury?
Stacy: For a natural birth, low-impact exercises are best. If you had a C-section, avoid strenuous core exercises to prevent stressing your incision. Check with your doctor at six to eight weeks postpartum before resuming core workouts.
Diet and Nutrition
Q: Which foods can help in postpartum recovery?
Stacy: There is no specific food that aids recovery. Eating a balanced diet and having regular meals is the best approach.
Q: Are there differences in do’s and don’ts for confinement meals for natural births vs. C-sections?
Stacy: Confinement meals are generally similar for both delivery types. However, some mothers minimize seafood consumption, as it may trigger itching at the wound site.
Q: How much coffee and alcohol consumption is fine?
Stacy: There are no concerns unless you are breastfeeding. The rule of thumb for alcohol is that if you are sober enough to drive, you are okay to breastfeed. Some babies may be sensitive to their mother’s diet. If you consume alcohol, start with a small amount and pump two hours afterward. Observe your baby for allergic reactions like diarrhea or rashes.
About Stacy Chow
Stacy Chow is the Founder of Baby Express, a dedicated Lactation Consultant, and a Post-Partum Doula. With a passion for supporting new parents, she provides expert guidance on breastfeeding and postnatal care.
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