things you may (or may not) know about postpartum
There's nothing worse than unexpected and unexplained symptoms amidst adjusting to welcoming a newborn into your home. Let's dive in
First of all, if you are reading this and are currently pregnant or newly postpartum- CONGRATULATIONS! These chapters of life are wildly transformative. In all of the best ways, yes- but they can also come with inevitable hardships- small and large. As a now mama of two, I thought I would let you in on a few things that took me off guard throughout both postpartum seasons.
As a disclaimer- these are all symptoms that I have personally experienced after two vaginal, natural births. Every woman’s postpartum experience and symptoms are vastly different, so this is not the “end all be all” list!
You will continue to bleed following birth, so GET THOSE DIAPERS OUT MA.
Postpartum bleeding is also referred to as “Lochia”. This is due to your body eliminating the extra mucus, blood, tissue, etc. that was needed during pregnancy. Typically, this heavier bleeding will last up to 10 days post birth and then will lighten up
From a comfortability standpoint- I personally prefer using diapers over pads, especially during that first week/week and a half postpartum when the bleeding is heavier. Once bleeding tapers off, I switch over to pads or liners to avoid the sexy diaper butt look
Your first postpartum poop may bring some PTSD… but it doesn’t have to
For obvious reasons, getting up the mental and physical courage to successfully pass your first bowel movement can take some time. But it is important to do!
I began supplementing with magnesium citrate as soon as I was done giving birth to help naturally soften my stools. I personally took 300-400mg but you can experiment with what feels good for you
You may experience contractions/cramping while breastfeeding
This is due to your body producing the hormone oxytocin while breastfeeding which can bring on uterine contractions. It is said that this is more common with your 2nd child and on. (I can confirm that this was true for me)
I utilized a heating pad on my lower abdomen/uterine area during and after these contractions to help with the pain