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Fertility 101

Postpartum

1. How should I prepare for postpartum? 
The first few weeks and months will undoubtedly be hard, but make sure that there is always someone there to help and be there for you, whether it's your partner or hospital staff. You can also make sure to ice any swelling, stock up on any hospital handouts, and take medication to relieve any constipation, inflammation, hemorrhoids, or pain and discomfort.  

2. What are postpartum depression and anxiety? 
Like prenatal depression/anxiety, postpartum depression/anxiety is very real and scary, and it can happen to anyone. Due to the sudden fall and changes in hormones (again), your body and mind are undergoing drastic adjustments. It is, however, imperative that you consult your doctor on this and be sure to seek treatment. Postpartum depression can be caused by a plunge in estrogen and progesterone, lack of sleep and nutrition, stress, being overwhelmed, and thyroid changes. This is very normal, and no one should be ashamed to ask for help.  

3. Can I exercise right after giving birth? 
It's always best to ask your doctor first. But whether you had a vaginal delivery or a c-section, there are always certain steps of recovery to complete first. Usually, women can start doing easy exercises after a week or so and then proceed to a more rigorous exercise regime. It is always important to give yourself time to properly heal so that there won't be any complications in the future.  

4. Will my body go back to the way it was before? 
On some level, your body will have undergone a beautiful and extraordinary thing. There will be changes in your body, and that's completely normal. Sometimes, women won't completely go back to their pre-baby selves, and that's okay. It also depends on genetics, your exercise routine, and eating habits. There will always be treatments to help you get back in shape but also remember not to be so hard on yourself.  

5. How long exactly is the postpartum period? 
Recovery varies from person to person, but usually, any healing will be completed within 6 to 12 weeks. Your uterus will immediately begin to contract back to the size it was before, and all muscles and your pelvic floor will also start to contract right after you give birth. The healing process can, however, last up to 6 months to a year. It is also normal that you spend a year in pregnancy and another year in recovery.  

6. Can I get pregnant right after giving birth? 
Yes, if there are no complications, your body will most likely start to ovulate and begin its menstrual cycle again right after giving birth. It is only normal that once you ovulate, there is a possibility of getting pregnant. However, you will also need to take note of your recovery and not force things too quickly.