Here’s what to expect and how to ease your recovery after childbirth.
If you had a vaginal delivery (click here if you had a cesarean section) .
Vaginal soreness – If you had an episiotomy or vaginal tearing during delivery, you’ll likely feel sore in your vaginal area for a few weeks. Here’s how to get some relief:
- Sit on a padded ring or pillow.
- Using a squeeze bottle, pour warm water over your perineum when urinating
- Sit in a shallow bath (warm or cold water), just high enough to cover your buttocks and hips, for about 5 minutes.
- Take an over-the counter pain reliever (such as acetaminophen) if necessary.
- Tell your healthcare provider if vaginal pain becomes more severe and persistent, which could indicate an infection.
- If you’re having trouble moving your bowels, ask your healthcare provider for a stool softener or laxative to prevent constipation.
Vaginal discharge – Expect a heavy, red discharge (from the mucous membrane that lined your uterus during pregnancy) in the early days after childbirth. It will gradually lessen, changing to a pink or brown color and then more yellow or white over the next few weeks.
Call your healthcare provider if you have heavy bleeding (soaking a pad in less than an hour), particularly with a fever and pelvic or uterine pain.
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Signs of Serious Health Problems After Childbirth
In the days and weeks after childbirth (whether vaginal or by cesarean section), some mothers are at risk for serious, potentially life-threatening complications that require immediate medical care, including:
• infection
• blood clots
• postpartum preeclampsia
• postpartum hemorrhage
Know the signs of these conditions and when to seek medical help.
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Disclaimer: This page is not intended to provide medical advice about your child. Always seek the advice of a physician, qualified healthcare provider or child-development specialist with any questions you have about your child's health, medical condition or development. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you read here.
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