Recovering from childbirth is no walk in the park. Some women get through with relatively no trouble and there are others that really struggle. There are so many different things your body is going through physically and emotionally during this time, most of which are very normal. Be patient with yourself as you are recovering from childbirth and realize that it will happen.
Snapshot Survey
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Please subscribe for your personalized newsletter:
Recovery Takes Time
Recovering from childbirth is not going to happen instantly. Be sensible about this. If it takes your body nine months to get to that point, it is only logical it may take that amount of time to get back to normal. Of course you are anxious to get back to your pre-pregnancy self, but allow this process the time it needs. The last thing you need is the additional stress pressuring yourself will bring.
Your body has undergone significant changes and the road to recovery will vary from person to person. Those first few weeks postpartum are crucial for healing, so listen to your body's cues and don't rush things. Remember to attend all postnatal appointments with your healthcare provider, as they can guide your recovery process. Patience will be your best ally—cherish these moments with your newborn and trust that your body will recuperate in due time.
/filters:quality(70)/thumbs/87/zu4m6yfvcsji4ykzattk0p_1080x1345.jpg)
Accept That Your Body Has Changed
It is important to realize that your body has changed. Even if you get back to your pre-pregnancy weight, your body will be different. Your body shifts and changes after having a baby. It is best to make peace with that fact rather than fight against it. You may find that you have some new womanly curves to enjoy, which can be a good thing.
/filters:quality(70)/thumbs/85/ixrwkrhr5pap7lhvsz7_1080x1350.jpg)
Take Care of Yourself, Too
We get so wrapped up in taking care of baby that we forget to take care of ourselves after childbirth. While you certainly have to put your sweet baby’s needs ahead of your own, you need to make sure that you are taking care of yourself, too. Choose nutritious foods to help you feel your best. Rest when your baby is sleeping. Don’t push yourself to do everything right away.
Self-care is pivotal, with your body healing from childbirth. Prioritize hydration, and stay quenched—it's essential, especially if you're nursing. Give yourself permission for me time; whether that's a warm bath, reading a book, or just sitting in silence. Remember, it's okay to ask for help from friends and family and accept that you don't have to immediately bounce back to your pre-baby routine. Mental health is as important as physical recovery, so be gentle with yourself emotionally, too. It's a time of enormous change, and kindness to yourself is key.
/filters:quality(70)/thumbs/00/2i314vlfqn842toea8e16v_1080_1080.jpg)
Buy Some Transition Clothes
You need to buy some transition clothes when you are recovering from childbirth. Wearing your maternity clothing is not going to make you feel great. More than likely, you are not going to immediately fit into your pre-pregnancy clothing, either. Treat yourself to a few new outfits to wear in the time you are recovering. Not only will it give you more options but it will lift your spirits as well.
When shopping for transition clothes, opt for comfort and ease of wear. Look for loose-fitting tops and elasticated or drawstring bottoms that accommodate your changing body. Breathable fabrics will help keep you comfortable, especially if you're dealing with postpartum night sweats. Also, consider the practicality of nursing access if you're breastfeeding. Splurging on a couple of items that make you feel stylish can also give you a much-needed confidence boost as you navigate motherhood. Remember, there's no rush to return to your old wardrobe—embrace this time and the new you with grace and self-love.
/filters:quality(70)/parenting/thumbs/dy/h9/jmctbp2s_400x400.jpg)
Your Life Feels Different
There is a new kind of normal you have to adjust to when you have a baby. Nothing is quite the same, in a very good way. This takes some mental stretching to fully get the gist of. I know that it did for me. It was like I was the same person but I was a new person now, too, because I was now a mom.
/filters:quality(70)/parenting/thumbs/pq/ik/sqnxkj1d_400x400.jpg)
Meaning is not what you start with but what you end up with.
Treat Yourself with Kindness
Your body has been through a lot. Treat yourself with kindness when you are recovering from childbirth. I think sometimes we expect too much of ourselves when we are recovering from childbirth. I remember injuring myself trying to mop two weeks after a c-section and tubal ligation. That was not a wise decision. Recovery is actually much quicker when you don’t add an injury to recover from.
/filters:quality(70)/parenting/thumbs/po/t4/vxmn1u57_400x400.jpg)
Call Your Doctor with Questions
If you have questions or concerns, call your doctor. That is what they are there for. Even if your question seems pretty far out there, call anyway. Don’t worry; they have heard them all and your call won’t be something they cannot deal with. They are your partner in recovery.
Recovering from childbirth is a process, just like pregnancy is. What tips did you use to help you during your recovery? Let other moms learn from you.
