Obstetrics
Postpartum Physical Aspects
| DISCOMFORT | RELIEF MEASURE |
|---|---|
| Abdominal Weakness | -Pelvic tilts, tightening exercises -Good posture, good body mechanics -Good diet -Patience to give body time for normal restoration |
| Afterbirth Pains | -Slow breathing -Relaxation techniques |
| Sore Nipples, Breast Pain or Difficulty | -Call for help: Lactation Counselor -LaLeche League -Childbirth Educator -Nursing mother/friend -Read one of the breastfeeding books on reading list |
| Constipation | -Drink lots of fluids -Eat fruits, whole grain food, fiber rich foods -Exercise: walking, pelvic tilts -Stool softener |
| Dizziness | -Move slowly -Lie down frequently -Elevate legs -Have you eaten lately? -Contact care provider if continues after a day or two |
| Episiotomy Pain | -Sitz bath -Ice pack or witch-hazel compress (TUCKS) -Kegel exercise to promote circulation -Topical anesthetic spray or ointment -No tampons; no douching -Good hygiene; wipe self from front to back; pat gently to avoid irritating area |
| Gas | -Drink warm fluids -Avoid use of straws -Exercise; walk, abdominal tightening |
| Hair Loss | -Use conditioner -Good diet, vitamins/minerals |
| Hemorrhoids | -Keep stools as soft as possible -Use hemorrhoid preparation care -Apply topical anesthetic -Use witch-hazel compresses (TUCKS) -Kegel exercises to promote circulation |
| Fatigue | -Nap when baby naps -Go to bed early for a few nights -Reduce or eliminate visitors -Make conscious effort to stay in bed; do only absolutely necessary work for several weeks -Get help from family, friends, or professionals for housework, laundry, shopping, childcare, and cooking -Improve diet; increase foods rich in vitamin B, whole grains, eggs, brewers yeast -Make use of relaxation techniques, meditation and visualization -Exercise to stimulate circulation; walk with baby in backpack or stroller -Devote time to yourself; read, bubble bath, shop |
| Episiotomy Care | -Observe color change: bright red, pinkish red, rusty-brown, whitish-yellow, dwindles until all gone -Call care provider if bright red color returns -Use sanitary napkins/panty liners -No Tampons -Keep fresh by showering daily – wash perineal area with soap and water -Use peri-bottle each time at toilet |
Weight | -Eat good diet – reduce unnecessary calories, but keep energy up -Exercise: walking and swimming are great -Patience: much of your pregnancy weight will be lost in the first week – the rest may take up to 3-6 months to drop away |