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Physical Changes After Delivery of a Baby
There are a number of changes your body will go through over the next 6 weeks. These occur whether
you had a cesarean section or vaginal delivery.
Uterus - It takes about 6 weeks for the uterus to return to your pre-pregnancy size. The uterus should
remain firm and will gradually get lower in your abdomen. To maintain firmness, massage the fundus
and keep the bladder emptied. Cramping is normal, especially with breastfeeding.
Lochia - Vaginal flow (lochia) will gradually decrease and become lighter in color over approximately 4
weeks. First it will be dark red with clots, then pink, then white in color.
Menses - Return of ovulation varies, but ovulation may resume before your first normal period, so use
birth control if sexually active. Your physician will discuss birth control options with you at your 6-
week visit.
Urination - Occasional leakage of urine is common; this usually resolves. Do Kegel exercises to help
strengthen the pelvic muscles after delivery.
Bowel Movements – It may take several days to resume normal bowel movements. Constipation is
common after pregnancy and the use of certain medications may exacerbate constipation. Drink plenty
of water, eat fiber-rich foods, and take a stool softener if needed to avoid constipation. Hemorrhoids
are common after delivery and take several weeks to resolve. You may use Tucks® pads/Preparation-H®
to ease the discomfort.
Circulation – Mild anemia is common after delivery. Continue to take prenatal vitamins and use iron if
instructed by your physician. Swelling, especially in the feet and legs, is to be expected. If you develop
redness or pain in either leg or asymmetric swelling, notify your physician so that you can be evaluated
for a blood clot in the vein.
Mood - Feelings of depression are normal after delivery. Notify your physician if these feelings last
longer than several days or if you are unable to cope.
Breasts - Breast changes are common after delivery. Wear a supportive bra. Watch for engorgement
(fullness and tenderness) even if not breastfeeding. Apply ice packs and take pain medication to relieve
the pain of engorgement. If pain, redness, fever or severe tenderness develop, contact your physician so
you can be evaluated for mastitis (infection of the breast). If you have difficulty breastfeeding, please
contact the lactation consultants or our office for assistance. |
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