Postpartum
Information for Mom
After Delivery For Mom:
- Nurses check uterus
- Massage uterus
- Hold baby if possible
- Begin breastfeeding if possible
- Stitches should dissolve on their own
- Wipe front to back
- Ways to relieve soreness:
- Ice pack
- Heating pad or lamp
- Soaking in tub
- Talk to doctor if having problems
- Nurse should discuss everything with you
C-Sections:
- No heavy lifting
- Try walking as soon as possible – move slowly
- Get plenty of rest
- No driving for 2 weeks
- No sex for 6 weeks
- Use pillows to prop yourself up especially while breastfeeding
- Limit visitors
- Drink lots of water
- Wash breasts and nipples everyday – NO soap on nipples
- Take daily shower or baths
- May bleed for 4 to 6 weeks after delivery
- If extremely heavy or lasts longer that 4 to 6 weeks, talk to your doctor.
- Period will return within 4 to 10 weeks – if breastfeeding, could be longer
- Rest – nap when baby naps
- If you feel sick or have any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor:
- Pain
- Fever
- Heavy bleeding
- Flu symptoms
- Hard time urinating
Sources:
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/healthy-baby/PR00041
- http://www.babycenter.com.au/baby/dailycare/bathingyourbaby/
- http://pediatrics.about.com/od/newborntips/a/04_bath_baby.htm
- http://life.familyeducation.com/bathing/baby/50496.html
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/c-section/PR00101
- http://www.the-essential-infant-resource-for-moms.com/C-Section-Recovery.html
- http://www.wreg.com/Global/story.asp?S=8438915
- http://www.pregnancy-info.net/c-section_recovery.html
- TLC's "Hi Mom" Pamphlet in Smart Start Folder
Disclaimer: This information is meant for educational purposes only and cannot replace medical advice. Contact your doctor about any concerns you have.