Postpartum recovery tips from an OBGYN

The days and weeks following your baby’s arrival will bring emotional and physical changes to your life. As you adapt to welcoming your new addition, you may feel excited, exhausted and even overwhelmed. Our San Antonio OBGYN women’s health clinic doctors are here to provide support by offering useful information about what to expect, how to practice self-care, and when to ask for help.

What should I expect during postpartum recovery?

After you give birth, your whole world turns on its axis. Immediately, you are responsible for another human being. While every woman’s experience is different, our San Antonio OBGYN women’s health clinic doctors believe all our patients need time and patience to recover both physically and emotionally. Just as pregnancy took nine months, postpartum recovery doesn’t happen overnight.

Suggestions to assist in the recovery process

Postpartum looks different for each woman, so don’t compare yourself to others. Your body, emotions, and recovery timeline are uniquely yours, which requires being gentle with yourself during this time.

Consider these tips and tricks as you adjust to life as a new mom.

• Rest whenever the baby sleeps, even if it is for short bursts of time.
• Follow your doctor’s recommendations on managing physical discomfort.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, which promotes healing and supports your milk production if you are nursing.
• Eat healthy, balanced meals and snacks, so that you can regain your physical strength.
• Accept offers from family and friends who are willing to help with washing the laundry, house cleaning or providing meals.
• Contact your doctor if you develop any unusual physical issues or mental health concerns.

What are the baby blues?

While many women wait with anticipation for their babies’ arrivals, hormone fluctuations and the physical recovery from giving birth can take an emotional toll. Baby blues, or feeling teary for no reason, are a common occurrence after childbirth, and they usually disappear quickly.

Up to 20% of women, however, develop postpartum depression, which is feelings of extreme sadness and despair that don’t resolve on their own and usually require additional treatment. Always talk to your OBGYN if you are struggling emotionally after birth, as help is available.

Settling into your life as a new mom takes some getting used to, so give yourself extra grace. Remember, postpartum recovery comes with an additional set of challenges. We are here to help you navigate this “new normal.” Contact our office to make an appointment with one of our San Antonio OBGYN women’s health clinic doctors.