Giving birth is a significant life event. Some births are joyous and fast, while others are more traumatic and difficult. It’s crucial that every birth experience is honored and respected. However, it’s pretty common for parents to need extra time and support to heal during postpartum.
Finding ways to support yourself or a postpartum parent you know is vital. If you have recently given birth, you may be looking for ways to relax and be more comfortable, whether you gave birth vaginally or through C-section. Your body may be experiencing many things – some that are difficult or unpleasant.
If you notice any severe or concerning postpartum symptoms, call emergency services or reach out to your doctor. However, for general tips on finding relief while postpartum, this guide is here for you.
Tip 1: Find Breastfeeding Support
Breastfeeding while postpartum can bring more physical symptoms and changes. While giving birth can impact your body in many ways, breastfeeding is a significant part of the process. Even if you don’t end up breastfeeding, your milk “coming in” can be unpleasant.
As you breastfeed, you may have issues getting your baby to latch or issues such as clogged milk ducts.
One of the best ways to get support for any breastfeeding concern or question is through a lactation consultant. An IBCLC lactation consultant is trained in this area of medicine, and most of these individuals have a clinical background. This expertise makes them a great resource.
Tip 2: Gather A Strong Support Team
One of the best things you can do when postpartum is have a great support system. While some people have more privilege and resources in this way, do what you can to find supportive people to surround yourself with before you give birth.
The support team often includes family members, close friends, and your romantic partner. However, there is no wrong or right answer here. The essential thing is finding those people you can rely on to take care of you when recovering.
Tip 3: Join Support Groups
You’ll find many online and in-person support groups as a postpartum parent. These groups can range in their purposes and goals, but it’s often valuable to have the support of your peers.
Even if you have close friends and family to rely on, you may not have people in your life who are also new parents. Connecting with other postpartum parents is worthwhile, as you can more fully express your experience and emotions.
Tip 4: Eat Enough (And Healthy)
After giving birth, it’s necessary to get adequate nutrition. You may want to treat yourself from time to time, and there’s nothing wrong with that. However, you should prioritize healthy eating as you adjust to life with a new baby.
While it’s easy for these things to fall by the wayside as you take care of your child, enlist the help of your support team to ensure you’re getting sustenance.
Tip 5: Try To “Sleep When The Baby Sleeps”
You may have heard this advice before, but it’s worth repeating. During the first couple of weeks, you’ll want to get any sleep you can as a new parent. If you’re breastfeeding or the primary caregiver for your baby, the demands can be high. Newborns need to eat around every couple of hours.
So, you’ll need to try to fit in as much sleep as you can. Even if you can only get a brief nap while your baby is napping, this extra sleep will make a huge difference in how you feel.
Remember To Take Your Time
As you follow these five tips for relief and support for postpartum and recovery, remember that everyone heals at their own pace. You know your life and your body best and have resources available.
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Being a parent isn’t easy, but you’ll make the right decision for yourself and your child.
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