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Shop NowChildbirth is one of those experiences that is both incredible and beautiful. Recovery from said childbirth can be a completely different story. Here are some tried and true tips to a smooth(ish) postpartum recovery.
1. Take care down there.
I’m going to be brutally honest here… if you gave birth vaginally, you’re going to have to give your lady parts and rectum a lot of TLC. Your recovery is going differ depending on whether you tore, experienced an episiotomy or if your perineum stayed intact. All women who deliver vaginally will experience some swelling, small contractions and gushes of blood. Here are a few tips to help alleviate the discomfort:tutorial android
2. Mind that C-section.
Let’s not forget that a Cesarean section is major surgery. Women who receive a C-section tend to spend a day or two longer in the hospital, and oft times have a different path to recovery than those who deliver vaginally. Here are a few tips to help said recovery go more smoothly:
3. Don’t be afraid to say, “no.”
This one can be a little difficult, especially if you have caring family and friends who all want to help. Don’t be afraid to listen to your gut and send people away if things are getting a little too crazy. The most important thing you can do for your baby is to ensure that you’re both getting the rest you need. Having too many people around can actually hinder that rest… so suggest that family and friends stagger their visits.
4. Take care of yourself mentally.
If you are prone to anxiety or depression, be aware that these can be heightened postpartum. This can be especially true if you experienced a traumatic birth or if your child is in the NICU. Don’t be afraid to be honest about what you’re feeling, and to reach out for help.
5. Give yourself a break!
If you need to cry it out, cry it out. Remember that parenting is hard work. Adding a member to your family dynamic, breastfeeding and sleep deprivation can all take a toll. You’re not going to love it every minute, and that’s okay. You are stronger than you think, and doing great!