Ready for some real talk about postpartum life?
In this blog post, I’m dishing the honest, unfiltered truth about what to expect after giving birth—the stuff that no one seems to talk about.
Buckle up, because we’re about to get real, raw, and maybe even a little bit TMI—but hey, that’s what friends are for, right? 😉
This is one most moms aren’t expecting and that is… the first bowel movement after giving birth can be scary and painful.
Let’s face it, nobody wants to talk about bowel movements, but it’s important to prepare for it after giving birth.
Stool softeners can make the process easier by softening the stool and preventing constipation. It’s also important to drink plenty of fluids, such as water or prune juice, to keep your body hydrated and to help with bowel movements.
Trust me, taking care of yourself in this way can make a world of difference and help you feel more comfortable and relaxed.
I remember being so scared at this point postpartum. All this stuff had just happened “down there” and it’s so foreign and to think I had to make other things work without the thought of accidentally pushing out my uterus – ha! It’s funny to think about now, but in the moment, it’s legit a weird and worrisome thing.
Postpartum bleeding can be heavy and last for up to six weeks.
You got to skip out on your period for 9 months and now it’s back with a vengeance! Time to stock up on heavy-duty pads and avoid tampons.
This is a time when it’s good to remember that this is completely NORMAL. Take it easy and give your body time to rest and readjust to your non-pregnant self.
While this IS normal, you know your body. If you feel like something is off, be sure to contact your doctor or midwife to clear your concern.
It’s common to feel sad in the first few days after giving birth.
Everyone says becoming a mom is the best feeling ever, right?
Not for everyone, and that’s ok!!
The first few days after giving birth can be an emotional rollercoaster, and it’s common to feel a range of emotions, from joy to anxiety to sadness.
These feelings are often referred to as “baby blues” and are a normal part of the postpartum experience.
BUT, if these feelings persist or get worse, it’s important to seek help from a healthcare provider. Postpartum depression is a serious condition that affects many new moms, and it’s important to get the support you need to feel better.
I remember feeling so overwhelmed when our daughter was born. Yes, I was so in love, but…there was just this background feeling of what if I mess all this up! Hormones are crazy!
It’s important to take care of your perineum if you had a tear or episiotomy. Ice packs, witch hazel pads, and sitz baths can provide relief.
If you had a tear or episiotomy during delivery, it’s important to take care of your perineum as it heals. This can be a painful and uncomfortable process, but there are things you can do to make it easier.
You can use ice packs, witch hazel pads, or sitz baths to reduce swelling and pain.
Padsicles are a popular DIY solution for postpartum relief. They are essentially frozen pads that are infused with soothing ingredients like witch hazel, aloe vera, and lavender oil. Here’s how to make padsicles:
1. Gather your supplies: You’ll need heavy-duty pads (such as overnight pads), witch hazel, aloe vera gel, lavender oil, and a large plastic bag.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of witch hazel, 1/4 cup of aloe vera gel, and a few drops of lavender oil. Stir until well combined.
3. Open the pads: Unwrap the pads, but leave the adhesive backing on. This will help the padsicles stick to your underwear.
4. Apply the mixture: Using a spoon or brush, apply the mixture to the top of the pad. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the pad.
5. Fold the pads: Fold the pads back up and place them into the plastic bag. Make sure they’re flat and not folded.
6. Freeze the pads: Put the plastic bag with the folded pads into the freezer and freeze until they’re completely frozen, which usually takes a few hours.
7. Use the padsicles: When you’re ready to use the padsicles, remove them from the plastic bag and peel off the adhesive backing. Place the pad in your underwear with the frozen side against your skin. The coolness of the frozen pad can provide relief from swelling and soreness.
That’s it! Padsicles are an easy and cost-effective way to get relief from postpartum discomfort. Just be sure to change the padsicles as needed throughout the day, and discard used pads in the trash.
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed and to ask for help.
Listen, it’s totally okay to feel overwhelmed after bringing a new human into the world.
After all, you’re doing one of the most important jobs ever!
So, if you need help, don’t be afraid to shout it from the rooftops.
Seriously, nobody expects you to be Supermom.
Your friends, family, and healthcare providers are there for you, just waiting to lend a hand or a listening ear. Whether you need advice on how to soothe a fussy baby, some company during those late-night feedings, or just someone to hold the baby while you take a much-deserved shower, PLEASE reach out.
I’m so thankful that when I first had my babies I was surrounded with wonderful people who brought us meals, helped me learn how to care for my baby and were there as a sounding board when I was struggling to breastfeed.
I realize not everyone has this, but there are other options! Reaching out to a postpartum doula or a support group are a great place to start.
Remember, asking for help doesn’t make you weak—it makes you wise!
Read that again!!
Because taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your little one.
And just remember, you are not the only woman going through these changes. It is all completely normal and there are women in your area who desire to help you. For more resources, check out the Oklahoma Postpartum Support International website.
Now you’re in the know about some of the less glamorous, but oh-so-real parts of postpartum life.
But remember, you’re not alone in this and it’s totally ok to lean on others when you need to!!
If you’re reading this while pregnant – check out some of my OKC Birth Photography as you prepare for the arrival of your new baby!
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