Postnatal and Breastfeeding

Puerperium is the period of time between birth and the next six weeks. At this time uterine secretions will happen, they are totally physiological. The patient, must ensure the taking of a very well balanced diet, similar to the one had while pregnant including all vitamins and iron and specially a very thorough hygiene. Extra care must be taken with episiotomy and caesarean wounds.

The first period usually comes with the end of breastfeeding. In case of artificial feeding it normally comes back after the puerperium.

At this stage, also some not very pleasant symptoms will be endured, fortunately they will come and go: urinary incontinence, haemorrhoids will feel more uncomfortable, constipation and difficulty when releasing the bladder.

There is no doubt that breastfeeding your baby is the best choice, given that everything it contains is exactly what your baby needs, moreover it encourages mother and newborn to build a strong bond between them, presenting you baby with a better chance to start a healthier life. It is important to place the baby on the mother’s chest soon after birth so that he can follow his reflex to suck therefore, stimulating milk production.

In the event of mother being RH(-) and newborn being RH(+) doctors will proceed to vaccinate the baby using Anti-D the very next day after birth.

The first few days of puerperium, will also, in some women, bring “postnatal depression“. It usually lasts a few days, more or less a week in which some particular symptoms will appear: sadness, lack of interest towards the baby, head aches, insomnia, tiredness, anxiety, etc. It is very important to get help and comprehension from your family, the symptoms will soon disappear; if in they wont, advice must be sought.

Any woman going through the puerperium, have to be familiar with a number of telling symptoms that must be taken seriously consulting with your doctor as soon as they appear:

  • Very high temperature
  • Unstoppable internal bleeding
  • Smelly uterine secretions
  • Mastitis symptoms ( pain or redness of the breasts )
  • Badly looking wounds (episiotomy or caesarean )
  • Urinary symptoms

After labour, sexual relations can be restarted as soon as the normal discomfort has disappeared. Even if still breastfeeding, pregnancy can occur, therefore, you must be aware that consecutive gestations are not recommended. Puerperium is the best time to restudy the best contraceptive method for you. Advice will also be given regarding contraception, at the post natal revisions.

Frequently asked questions

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