childbirth is a very demanding event for the body and for this certain complications can occur. Recovery after childbirth can take a few weeks.
More complications after childbirth
Here are the main discomforts and complications that can occur as a result of childbirth.
uterine contractions
After the birth of a baby, the labor contractions give way to the milder uterine contractions, which serve to reduce the size of the uterus and to prevent excessive blood loss. However, the uterus will not return to its normal size until about 4 to 8 weeks after delivery.
vaginal discharge
Vaginal secretion is normal after childbirth, this is due to hormonal changes and a lower volume of blood, since immediately after childbirth, the woman loses about 500 ml of blood. These blood losses will continue for about 2 weeks. For the first few days, the blood will be bright red and heavier than during menstruation.
After the first week, the bleeding slows down and becomes less and less heavy. They also change color from red to pink or brown to yellow or white. These vaginal discharges can last up to 6 weeks postpartum and occasional leaks can also occur up to 2 months after delivery.
Pain in the vagina and perineum
After delivery, the vagina and perineum may be swollen and sore. This discomfort may be greater in the case of a tear or an episiotomy. These pains, which can last a few weeks, are more pronounced when you walk or sit. If you feel uncomfortable, you can sit on a pillow.
In the first few days after giving birth, you can apply ice or a cold pack to the area where you have pain. You can also take a sitz bath in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day. Make sure the bathroom is clean, don’t use oil or bubble bath, and dry yourself well before getting dressed.
hemorrhoids and constipation
hemorrhoids are a fairly common complication after childbirth, and usually disappears a few days after the birth of the baby. Sitz baths and donut-shaped cushions can ease the discomfort of hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids can be painful when it comes to bowel movements, so it is necessary to avoid straining and prevent constipation. It is normal not to have a bowel movement for the first few days after delivery, but then the bowel movement should be regular.
Fatigue
Hormones during pregnancy decrease hair loss, but after the birth of the baby, this effect disappears and the hair falls out. The post pregnancy hair loss lasts about 6 months.
Most women who have just given birth experience a feeling of exhaustion for a few weeks. Walking and moving around can be exhausting, and this often causes frustration and depression.
This is why it is important to take the necessary measures to rest well. So in the early days, try to sleep when your baby is sleeping. It is also better to limit visitors. Also, do not hesitate to ask for help from your relatives for meals, housework and the care of other children if there are any. You should also take some time to relax with a book or music.