1st Month After Giving Birth: Your Body, Baby Care and Rest
The first days after birth are a time full of emotional changes. If you are a mom for the first time, you probably have a lot of questions, and you need to learn a lot of things. There is excitement, along with tiredness as you are still recovering from labor.
During the first days, you may have the "baby blues." The National Institute of Mental Health says these are mild mood changes, worry, sadness and tiredness that many women feel in the first 2 weeks after birth. If these feelings are strong or last longer than 2 weeks, it could be postpartum depression, so talk to your doctor. Try to hold your baby close to you as much as you can, as it will help you feel confident and help build a strong bond between you and your baby.
Your body
Your breasts will change during the first few days, as you start breastfeeding. Your belly may look soft and loose after birth, and it will still be quite big because the muscles are still stretched. It takes time to get back the shape you had before pregnancy. ACOG says it is usually safe to start gentle exercise a few days after birth, or as soon as you feel ready. If you had a C section or problems during birth, ask your doctor first. You may also feel cramps as your uterus shrinks back to its normal size. Mayo Clinic calls these afterpains and says they often feel like period cramps and are common during breastfeeding. Breastfeeding can also help with weight loss after pregnancy, says MedlinePlus. For more ideas, read our tips on losing weight after pregnancy.
Bladder problems may stay for a while for some women, and you may leak a little when you laugh or exercise. Kegel exercises make the pelvic floor muscles stronger and help with bladder control, says ACOG. Piles (hemorrhoids) are another common problem after birth. They usually get better with time. Eat lots of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and drink plenty of water to keep your stools soft.
Things to know during those early days
Diapers: Disposable or washable cloth diapers are a matter of choice. Disposable diapers are easy to use, while cloth diapers can cost less but need extra care. Either kind can cause diaper rash. The American Academy of Pediatrics says rash often comes from leaving a wet or dirty diaper on too long, so change diapers often. A thick layer of cream with zinc oxide or petroleum jelly can help protect the skin.
Bathing: The AAP says to give only sponge baths until the umbilical cord stump falls off, which usually happens in 1 or 2 weeks. After that, three baths a week in the first year may be enough, because bathing more often can dry out your baby's skin. Always check the water first. It should feel warm, not hot, on the inside of your wrist or elbow. Use only a little mild soap with no perfume, and dry your baby with a soft cotton towel. Bath time can be fun too. The Bath Song is a happy song about a little penguin with shampoo, soap and a sponge.
Rest: Looking after a baby is a very tiring job. It is a good idea to take turns with your partner, and trying sleep music for tired parents can help both of you relax during rest times. You can also find soft lullabies for newborns on our music page. To learn more about your baby in these first weeks, read Newborn Baby Month 1: Early Days.
Intimacy and relationship: After having your baby, your relationship with your partner may change a lot, and many women get help from their mother or close friends. It is important to make a routine and find time for your partner too. If not, after a few months you may realize that you have spent too little time together. So make sure you spend some moments together without your baby. Enjoy the company of your partner, as it may take time before you want to have sex again. There is no one rule about when to start again, as it is very personal. Cleveland Clinic says doctors usually suggest waiting 2 to 6 weeks, so ask your doctor what is right for you. Also think about birth control. ACOG says you can get pregnant even before your first period comes back, and even if you are breastfeeding.
Questions About the First Month After Giving Birth
How long do the baby blues last?
The baby blues usually happen in the first 2 weeks after birth. If sad or worried feelings are strong or last longer than 2 weeks, talk to your doctor.
Why do I have cramps after giving birth?
Your uterus is shrinking back to its normal size. These cramps are called afterpains. They often feel like period cramps and are common during breastfeeding.
When can I start exercising after birth?
ACOG says it is usually safe to start a few days after birth, or when you feel ready. If you had a C section or problems during birth, ask your doctor first.
How often should I bathe my newborn?
Give sponge baths until the cord stump falls off. After that, three baths a week in the first year may be enough.
Can I get pregnant before my period comes back?
Yes. You can get pregnant before your first period after birth, even if you are breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor about birth control.
This post is for general information only. It is not medical advice. If you have questions about your health or your baby's health, please talk to your doctor.