What is the Postpartum period?
Welcoming a new life into the world is an unparalleled joy, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges.
The postpartum period is a phase that begins after childbirth and lasts for around 40 days to 6-8 weeks (depending on the cultural background). The postpartum period, often referred to as the "fourth trimester".
The postpartum period is split into two parts - early and late postpartum. The initial ten days after birth are classified as the early postpartum period. During this phase, your body will go through most of the physical recovery and healing processes, and you'll have plenty of time to bond with your newborn.
It is an intense yet brief period that requires substantial adjustments and a great deal of patience.
During this time, new moms experience a whole range of physical and emotional changes as they adjust to their new role and the absence of pregnancy. It's super important to prioritize self-care and focus on your recovery during this time. Take all the time you need to heal and listen to your inner voice. If anything seems off, make sure to seek medical attention to ensure you have a healthy recovery. It's normal to feel all the feels during this phase - joy, excitement, anxiety, sadness, exhaustion - you name it.
During this intensive phase, new mothers and fathers adjust to their new roles and a child slowly acquiesces him/herself to living outside the womb.
Please consider that you have a support system available to you, including family, friends, or hired help. Asking for help is essential, and it can make a significant difference in your recovery and the well-being of your new family. You are doing an incredible job, and everything will fall into place.
Cultural differences can be challenging, especially when it comes to postpartum care. The Dutch word "kraambed" and the German word "wochenbett" both literally mean "bed" and "weeks". Which implies the importance of staying in bed/sofa, laying flat and not just for a few days but for a prolonged time!
Midwives often describe the postpartum period as a time for the new mother to rest and recover.
In the first week, they suggest staying in bed, followed by a week of being around the bed, and then slowly venturing outside in the third week and exploring the rest of the house and surroundings.
Every woman heals and recovers at her own pace, and it's important to keep in mind that new mothers need ample time to heal.
Just remember to take care of yourself, ask for help when you need it, and enjoy this precious time with your little one.