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Post-pregnancy
Having a baby to love and care for is a unique experience to treasure and enjoy. A woman’s life changes following the birth of a baby, as she takes on the role of being a mother and looking after a newborn. Like all good relationships, the relationship between mother and baby will grow over time.
New mothers are often so engaged with their new parental responsibilities that they may put their own health and sometimes their relationship with a partner as a low priority. This section covers a few post-pregnancy aspects which maybe need to be thought about and addressed.
Post-pregnancy physical changes
Breastfeeding is recommended as it promotes both infant and maternal health and is more beneficial than formula feeding. It also helps cement the mother and baby bond and encourages it to blossom.
Breastfeeding mothers should visit their doctor for guidance and to discuss any difficulties they experience, for example painful breast engorgement or improper milk drainage. Breast health is also a concern for women when they decide to stop breastfeeding. All new mothers should undergo a regular breast exam at their doctors, regardless of whether they are breastfeeding or not.
A pelvic examination should also be conducted by a doctor after giving birth to ensure the uterus and surrounding tissues are healthy following the pregnancy. Additional tests, such as a cervical smear and blood tests may also be given.
If weight gain is a concern following pregnancy, it is advisable for women to talk to their doctor to discuss when they can begin exercise and / or reduce calories following birth and determine an appropriate weight loss plan for their individual needs.
Post-pregnancy emotional changes
Having a baby can evoke a number of emotions, most of which are very positive. It is only natural that some lifestyle adjustments will need to be made after the birth of a baby, and coping with the new responsibility of looking after a baby can take some getting used to. Occasionally some new mothers experience feelings of anxiety, sadness, irritability or depression, but these feelings usually go after a short period of time as the woman adjusts to her new role. New mother support groups and family members can often help alleviate these feelings. If the feelings persist, a doctor should be consulted for advice and treatment if required.
Post-pregnancy lifestyle changes
Becoming a parent is a joyful time. Each step of your baby’s development is an exciting experience for you to cherish. Along with the new found joy, becoming a parent also means a number of changes to your lifestyle as your baby will require a lot of immediate attention, and it is only natural that new anxieties also arise:
Will I be a good enough parent?
Can I keep my baby safe?
Will we be able to cope financially?
How can I work and also find enough quality time to spend with my child?
How do I make more time for my partner?
Will my partner ever have more time for me?
Will I ever have any spare time just for me?
When can we get more sleep?
These are all common questions for new parents. People do adapt to their new role, but to make things easier, share your thoughts and feelings with your partner, family and friends. Speak to people who have been through it all before so you can benefit from their experience. Try and sleep when your baby sleeps, and don’t be afraid to ask for someone to mind the baby even if it is just for 30 minutes so you can complete some chores or put your feet up with your partner.
Post-pregnancy sex and contraception
It is usually recommended that women wait four to six weeks after giving birth before having sex, to allow time to heal properly - this time will vary based on the mode of delivery. Vaginal dryness due to low estrogen levels associated with breastfeeding may cause painful intercourse. Women experiencing this problem should speak with their doctors about soothing topical creams and lubricants.
Resumption of menstruation after delivery is extremely variable. It can begin as early as six weeks or as late as one year or more. Many new mothers falsely assume that because they have not started menstruating or are breastfeeding that they do not ovulate and will not get pregnant. Ovulation (release of egg) happens two weeks before the first menstruation, so this misconception can lead to an unplanned conception. All women should be encouraged to use some form of birth control as soon as they resume having sexual intercourse whether or not they have begun menstruating. Contraceptive needs can also change dramatically after the birth of a child, and many women might seek alternative methods to suit their new lifestyle as a mother to ensure their birth control is convenient, has high efficacy and allows spontaneity during intimate moments.
Further information.
http://www.pregnancy.org/ »
http://www.bbc.co.uk »
http://www.babycentre.co.uk »
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