trip after giving birth

Second Trimester
Travel During Pregnancy

How Soon Can I Travel After Birth?

If you’re itching to visit far-flung friends and relatives with your new baby , or if being housebound as a new mom is making you want to get out of town, like now , there’s no hard-and-fast rule about when you’re allowed to fly. How soon you travel after giving birth is really up to how you’re feeling. Some new moms feel almost like their old selves within a few days, while others are still having aches and pains for a while afterward. If you get a c-section, you’ll likely be in the longer- recovery category.

You should check with your OB to make sure it’s okay to travel if you’ve had any complications, but it’s even more important that you get the go-ahead from baby’s pediatrician. That’s because baby’s immune system is still developing, and there’s a high risk of him catching something harmful in those early months.

Keep in mind, if you do hop a flight soon after delivery, there’s a high risk for blood clots that’s associated with pregnancy—and it persists for six to eight weeks postpartum. So take extra care to drink lots of water and to get up and walk around often during a long flight. Wearing special support hose to promote circulation can also help.

Updated November 2016

Plus, more from The Bump:

Prep for Baby’s First Trip

Baby’s Travel Checklist

How to Love Your Postbaby Body

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Postpartum & New Parenthood

Postpartum Timeline: What You Can Do When After Giving Birth

Wondering what you'll be able to do after the baby makes their grand arrival? Consider this your ultimate postpartum timeline.

Why Do Activities Need to Be Limited Postpartum?

Immediately After Delivery
Hours After Delivery
One Day After Delivery
One Week After Delivery
Two Weeks After Delivery
Three Weeks After Delivery
Six Weeks After Delivery

While everyone's postpartum experience is unique, the post-delivery recovery timeline is usually fairly predictable. For example, it's always advised to avoid housework, heavy lifting, and other strenuous physical activity immediately after giving birth and during those first days and weeks postpartum. However, some new parents will need a bit more or less time to be ready for various activities like having sex, driving, or starting to take on regular household work after delivery.

You'll be sore, tired, and recovering right after the birth, so aim to ease into your new routine with help from family and friends. Prepare to limit trips up and down the stairs, hold off on doing extensive household chores, and wait to exercise until you've gotten the go-ahead from your doctor. Learn more about what you can do when after giving birth.

GETTY IMAGEs

The postpartum period is sometimes referred to as the " fourth trimester ." This is because it is a time of recovery and adjustment to parenthood. "You need sufficient rest for the muscles and ligaments that hold your uterus in place to regain their strength," says Coralie Macqueen, a certified nurse-midwife in private practice in New York City. And in the case of a C-section, a longer period of rest is required for your body to heal from major abdominal surgery.

Most importantly, be gentle and flexible with yourself. Your body is unlikely to snap right back to its pre-pregnancy state. And the emotional whirlwind of new parenthood needs to be processed as well. So, honor when you feel like you need rest and/or to postpone certain things until you're feeling ready. In other words, focus on caring for yourself and your baby and err on the side of slowly easing back into regular life—you don't need to do it all!

As for the specifics? After your baby's born, here's when you can expect to get the green light for nursing, showering, driving, doing household work, and more during your postpartum recovery.

What Can You Do Immediately After Delivery?

If you're feeling up for it, you can likely do the following activities right after giving birth.

Hold your baby

As long as you've had an uncomplicated birth and you're feeling up to it, you'll be able to hold your baby immediately after giving birth. If you've had a C-section birth , your partner might actually be the one holding baby, but you'll still get a chance to steal some snuggles while you get stitched up and prepped for the recovery room.

Breastfeed your baby

While you're enjoying those first sweet snuggles with your baby, if you plan to breastfeed , it's time to try breastfeeding for the first time. Your first milk will be colostrum, also known as first milk ; this nutrient-dense milk is packed with antioxidants and antibodies designed to support your newborn and build up their immune system. The first hours after birth is a critical time for establishing a breastfeeding bond . If you choose to use formula, you can feed your baby with a bottle.

Are you wondering how soon you can walk after giving birth? If so, know that the answer varies greatly depending on the type of pain medication you opted for. If you deliver without the use of an epidural , you'll likely be able to walk immediately. If you've used an epidural , it generally takes an hour or so before you'll be able to fully feel your legs, says Dr. Martine Tesone, a Certified Nurse Midwife specialist in Loveland, Colorado.

If you've had a C-section , however, you will need to stay in bed a few hours longer or even wait until the day following your surgery. Walking—at least to the bathroom and back, and possibly farther—shortly after a C-section is encouraged as it helps circulation, improves bowel function, and will speed recovery .

What Can You Do Hours After Delivery?

While you'll want to focus on resting and bonding with your newborn, after a few hours, you'll be able to start doing some additional self-care activities.

Take a shower

Once your epidural wears off and the baby's been checked over thoroughly, you'll likely be transported together from the delivery room to the postpartum recovery room. This is often on a different floor of the maternity ward, and the nursery is typically on this floor as well. Here, you'll be able to enjoy your first postpartum shower. (Just gently pat yourself dry down there!)

Nandini Raghuraman , M.D., MSCI, an OB-GYN at The Women & Infants Center, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, says, "This can even be done the day of your delivery if you feel okay standing independently without dizziness or lightheadedness." If you had a C-section, you can typically shower within a day of your surgery; doing so helps reduce the risk of infection. Don't scrub your incision; just let the water run over it.

Use the bathroom on your own

Your first trip to the restroom after giving birth may be a bit more awkward (and uncomfortable) than you expected. That's because you'll be accompanied by your attending nurse, who will ensure you're steady on your feet, help navigate cords, wires, and your hospital gown, and help you get set up with your first postpartum pad and ice pack. This typically happens as soon as your epidural wears off if you had one, or about one to two hours after giving birth.

Following a C-section, however, your first bathroom trip will generally be the morning after your surgery when doctors remove your catheter.

Note that constipation is common after childbirth . Drinking a lot of liquids, moving your body as much as possible (try walking the hospital hallways!), and constipation medication can all help.

Drink alcohol (yes, really)

Hoping to toast your new arrival with a sip of bubbly at the hospital? Go for it, but it's a good idea to wait until after you and your baby have been checked over, and you've tried breastfeeding for the first time. Even then, it's recommended you keep the celebration to one small glass . Dr. Heather Bartos , M.D., an OB-GYN and the founder of Badass Women, Badass Health reminds us that if you're taking narcotics for pain relief, you shouldn't use alcohol at all.

What Can You Do One Day After Delivery?

You will likely be feeling mighty sore and tired but you can still start doing a few more things one day postpartum.

Take a bath (with the doctor's okay)

If you've had an uncomplicated vaginal delivery, there's a good chance you'll get the all-clear to take a warm bath just one day postpartum. But if you're a c-section parent, this luxury will, unfortunately, be off-limits for several weeks to come. "After a cesarean section, you may be advised to wait until after your six-week postpartum visit before taking a full bath," says Dr. Tesone. However, showering is still an option.

Leave the hospital

Unless you've had a C-section, you should be able to leave the hospital approximately 24 hours after giving birth, assuming both you and your baby have been cleared by your doctors. The C-section recovery timeline has you staying for approximately two to four days.

What Can You Do One Week After Delivery?

After a week, you'll be feeling much more like yourself, but you've still got a lot of healing to go. However, there are new things you can resume doing.

Drive a car

Wait a week to drive a car after a vaginal birth, says Robert Atlas , M.D., an OB-GYN at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore. "You use your abs to move your foot from the gas to the brake." If you've had a C-section, expect to wait two to three weeks before getting behind the wheel.

"After a C-section, you won't be able to lift anything more than your baby's weight, so lifting a car seat is not feasible," says Dr. Tesone. "In addition, you won't have the abdominal muscles to press down on the brake pedal in an emergency."

Care for other children

If you can swing it, it's best to wait until at least one week postpartum before resuming full-time childcare duties for your other kids. This allows you time to heal, establish a feeding routine, and promote bonding time with your new baby.

What Can You Do Two Weeks After Delivery?

After 2 weeks, you'll be feeling a lot better but your body is still healing. Be sure to stay well-fed and get as much rest and support as you can. Accept help when offered and ask for assistance when needed!

Resume light exercise

If you haven't already and you're feeling up for it, you should be able to resume a light workout schedule —think walks and stretches—about two weeks postpartum. Just remember to take it slow and avoid trying new or intense workouts right now.

Take on light household chores

Similarly, you should be able to resume day-to-day tasks around the house without much trouble around two weeks after delivery. "But always listen to your body," notes Dr. Raghuraman. "If there is any discomfort, immediately stop and rest."

However, if you've had a C-section , the 2-week mark will be the time you'll go back to the doctor for a wound check to make sure your incision is healing well. Only after this will your doctor clear you for any increased activity. So, hold off on doing the dishes or laundry if you can!

What Can You Do Three Weeks After Delivery?

After three weeks postpartum, you can start resuming many of your normal activities. However, it's still important to take it easy.

Expect less bleeding

Wondering if you'll ever stop bleeding? Dr. Bartos says most people start to see a much lighter flow by the end of the third week. However, it's not abnormal to go a few weeks longer than that or even for the flow to trickle off and start up again a few times.

Take on more household work

By three weeks, you can start doing more household work. However, don't overdo it. Instead, lean on your support system as much as possible. Listen to your body and if you need a break, take one!

What Can You Do Six Weeks After Delivery?

While you're likely still adjusting to the 24-hour demands of parenting, by six weeks postpartum your body's physical recovery from pregnancy and delivery is typically in good shape. So, you'll likely get the go-ahead from your doctor to resume most activities.

Enjoy sexual activity

At your 6-week postpartum doctor's visit, you'll likely be cleared for sexual activity . But don't sweat it if you're not in the mood yet. You're in control here, and just because you've reached this milestone doesn't mean you need to be intimate again right away. However, if you feel ready, go for it! Everyone's situation is different, so you get to you decide when you feel truly ready. And remember, you can start slow, and "sex" doesn't have to include penetration!

Start taking birth control again

You're potentially fertile even with a newborn in your arms, even if you're breastfeeding, so be sure to use birth control. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best pill to take if you're breastfeeding . Since your breastfeeding routine is likely well established by now, it's safe to start taking a mini-pill at six weeks postpartum, which is a progesterone-only form of birth control. The mini pill is effective at preventing pregnancy without causing your milk supply to suffer.

Do Kegel exercises

We know there are surely many other priorities on your to-do list as a new parent, but there's no time like the present to start working on those pelvic floor muscles . But it's advisable to wait until the 6-week mark to ensure that any vaginal tears/repairs have fully healed, says Dr. Raghuraman.

Going to the gym

Whether you delivered vaginally or by C-section, skip intense gym workouts for six weeks to give your body time to finish most of its healing. While it may not seem like it right now, you will get back to your pre-baby and pre-pregnancy exercise routines (if that's your goal), so there is no need to rush things. Take it slow.

Key Takeaways

While there are general guidelines on what you can do when postpartum, remember that each new parent recovers from childbirth on their own timeline. So, listen to your doctor and your body—and go at whatever pace feels right to you.

Listen to Parents' "That New Mom Life" podcast for expert advice on breastfeeding, the emotional highs and lows of parenthood, sleepless nights, and more!

Road Trip After Giving Birth: Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Journey

After giving birth, it is generally recommended for most new mothers to wait one to two weeks after a vaginal delivery and three to four weeks after a c-section before embarking on travel.

This timeframe allows for proper recovery and adjustment for both the mother and the baby.

Traveling too soon can expose the newborn to infections, especially within the first four to eight weeks of life when their immunity is still developing.

Mothers who had a c-section or a complicated pregnancy are advised to wait at least three to four weeks before traveling, while those who had a normal vaginal delivery should wait around two weeks.

It’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before traveling, stay hydrated during the trip, wear comfortable clothes, and take breaks to prevent blood clotting, which is a heightened risk in the weeks following childbirth.

Rest, recovery, and listening to your body’s signals are key factors to consider before undertaking any travel plans postpartum.

Table of Contents

What are the essential items to pack for a road trip after giving birth?

The essential items to pack for a road trip with a baby include:

Feeding Essentials : Burp cloths, Haakaa if breastfeeding, bottles, formula.
Diapering : Butt cream, changing pads, plastic bags for dirty diapers, diapers, wipes.
Safety and Comfort : Portable sound machine, pacifiers, nasal bulb suctioner, blankets, sun shades for car windows, safety mirror.
First Aid and Hygiene : First aid kit, towels.
Entertainment : Toys or books for the baby.
For You : Diaper bag stocked with essentials, snacks, water.

For longer trips:- Big Gear: Car seat + stroller travel system, baby bouncer, Pack & Play, Slumber pod, baby carrier.

– Sleep Essentials: Swaddle or sleep sack, sound machine.

Travel tips include stopping every 2.5-3 hours for breaks, setting up a diaper changing area in the car, timing the trip with naps, being flexible with stops, and ensuring car seat safety.

It’s also recommended to have a fully stocked diaper bag and consider the gear that suits your travel needs.

If you’re exclusively pumping during the trip:- Bring a travel wash basin, dish soap, bottle brush for cleaning pump parts.

– Pack extra pump parts and pumps for use in the car.

– Have snacks for yourself and a routine for feeding and pumping during stops.

Additionally, when traveling with an infant in the car:- Pack essentials like an umbrella stroller or full-size stroller, backpack carrier, pack-and-play or portable crib.

For postpartum road trips or anyone seeking comfort:- Pack comfortable clothing suitable for postpartum recovery.

– Include items like nursing bras or tanks, loose-fitting clothes, comfortable shoes.

– Don’t forget personal care items like toiletries and medications.

How soon after giving birth is it safe to embark on a road trip?

Based on the information from the sources provided, the timing for embarking on a road trip after giving birth varies depending on individual circumstances.

It is generally recommended to wait until you have fully recovered, which can take several weeks.

Pediatricians suggest waiting until the baby is older, ideally around four weeks, before undertaking air travel.

Postpartum recovery timelines indicate that after a C-section, it may be advisable to wait two to three weeks before engaging in activities like driving.

However, each person’s recovery is unique, and factors such as the mode of delivery, overall health, and the baby’s well-being should be considered before planning a road trip after giving birth.

Are there specific health considerations or precautions to take during a road trip postpartum?

Specific health considerations and precautions are essential during a road trip postpartum to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the newborn.

Here are some key points based on the provided sources:

Safety Measures for Traveling with a Newborn by Car:
Always ensure that the child rides in the back seat in a rear-facing infant car seat that meets safety standards.
Correctly install the car seat to provide maximum protection in case of an accident.
Plan for frequent breaks during long car rides to allow the baby to stretch and feed.
Minimize exposure to crowded places or individuals who may be sick.

Set up a sunshade in the window to protect the baby from excessive sun exposure.

Essential Items for a Well-Packed Diaper Bag:

Pack enough diapers to account for potential delays or longer travel times.
Include wipes, diaper rash cream, and disposable changing pads.
Pack extra outfits, socks, hats, and burp cloths in case of accidents or spills.
Carry bottles, formula or expressed breast milk, bibs, and burp cloths.
If breastfeeding, consider a nursing cover for privacy.
Blankets and swaddles can provide warmth, comfort, or shade as needed.
Pacifiers and toys can soothe and entertain the baby during the journey.

These precautions aim to ensure a safe and comfortable road trip postpartum for both the mother and the newborn.

It is crucial to prioritize the well-being of both individuals during travel.

What are some tips for ensuring comfort and safety for both the mother and the newborn during a road trip?

To ensure comfort and safety for both the mother and the newborn during a road trip, several key tips can be followed:

Prepare Your Vehicle : Before the trip, ensure your car is in top shape by checking for leaks, worn hoses, recalls, and needed repairs. Check tire pressure, replace wiper blades, and top off fluid levels.

Check Car Seats : Make sure car seats are properly installed and secure. Ensure they are not loose and that the harness straps are at the correct height. Consider taking a course or consulting a certified car seat safety technician for proper installation.

Get Adequate Rest : Prioritize getting a good night’s sleep before the trip to stay alert while driving. Drowsy driving is as dangerous as drunk driving, so being well-rested is crucial.

Share Your Location : Share your location with someone at your destination who may worry about you. This way, they can check in on you if needed while you’re on the road.

Plan for Weather : Check the weather along your entire route before starting the trip. Plan pit stops strategically to avoid severe weather conditions like heavy rain or snow. Install sunshades for sunny weather and have an emergency kit with essentials like jumper cables, tire-changing tools, water, first aid supplies, and more.

By following these tips, mothers can ensure a safe and comfortable road trip experience for both themselves and their newborns.

How can one plan an itinerary that accommodates the needs of a newborn while on a road trip?

To plan an itinerary that accommodates the needs of a newborn while on a road trip, consider the following tips from the provided sources:

Plan for Several Stops : Incorporate fun activities, tours, or stops at cute little towns every 1-3 hours to give your baby breaks.

Be Prepared for Itinerary Changes : Understand that road trips with a baby may lead to changes in your plans. Set realistic goals and be flexible with your schedule.

Drive Around Naps : Plan your driving schedule around your baby’s sleep routine to ensure a smoother journey.

Keep Essential Items Handy : Pack essentials like diapers, wipes, first aid kit, baby Tylenol, and Benadryl within easy reach in the car.

Plan Stops Strategically : Know where you can stop for walks, gas, and essential supplies along your route. Keep a log of hospitals and emergency care units in each town you pass through.

Ensure Car Safety : Double-check that your car seat is safe and properly installed. Use a car window safety shade for your baby’s comfort and safety.

Pack Wisely : Bring extra diapers, wipes, clothing, favorite blanket, toys, feeding essentials, first aid kit, portable sound machine, and more to keep your baby comfortable and entertained during the trip.

Stay Flexible and Patient : Embrace spontaneity and be prepared for unexpected stops or changes in plans. Remember to find patience as road trips with a baby may take longer than expected.

By incorporating these tips into your itinerary planning, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable road trip experience with a newborn.

Are there recommended stops or breaks to incorporate into a road trip with a newborn?

When planning a road trip with a newborn, it is essential to incorporate regular stops and breaks to ensure the baby’s comfort and safety.

Experts recommend stopping every 2 to 3 hours for feeding, diaper changes, and to allow the baby to stretch and move around.

These breaks are crucial for both the parents and the child, as they provide an opportunity to address the baby’s needs and prevent fussiness during the journey.

Additionally, incorporating fun activities or stops at parks can help make these breaks more enjoyable for everyone involved.

It is advised to plan driving around the baby’s sleep schedule and to drive smoothly to help the baby sleep longer stretches in the car.

However, it is crucial never to take the baby out of the car seat while the vehicle is in motion, even for feeding or consoling purposes.

Always pull over or find a safe spot before attending to the baby’s needs.

Moreover, ensuring that the car’s air conditioning system works properly is important to maintain a comfortable temperature for the newborn during the trip.

In summary, when road tripping with a newborn, it is recommended to take regular breaks every 2 to 3 hours, plan driving around nap times, avoid taking the baby out of the car seat while driving, and ensure a comfortable environment inside the vehicle for the baby’s well-being.

What are some strategies for managing feeding, diaper changes, and overall care for a newborn during a road trip?

To manage feeding, diaper changes, and overall care for a newborn during a road trip, several strategies can be employed based on expert advice from various sources:

Plan Frequent Stops : It is recommended to stop every two to three hours for feeding, diaper changing, and breaks from the car seat. This helps address the baby’s needs and ensures comfort during the journey.

Keep Supplies Handy : Have a kit within easy reach containing essentials like water, snacks, formula or breast milk, pacifiers, toys, blankets, and other necessities to avoid rummaging through bags while on the road.

Tag Team Approach : While one person drives, have another sit in the back with the baby to anticipate needs, offer snacks or drinks, provide entertainment, and address diaper stops.

Maintain Baby’s Schedule : Try to keep the baby’s schedule consistent during the trip. If the baby naps every three hours, aim to maintain that timeline in the car to ensure familiarity and comfort.

Use a Baby Mirror : Install a baby mirror in the car to keep an eye on your little one while driving. This can help ease nerves and allow for interaction with the baby during the journey.

Map Out Stops : Plan your route with stops every two hours for feeding and stretch breaks. Mapping out rest stops in advance can help avoid restlessness and ensure timely care for the newborn.

By incorporating these strategies into your road trip plan, you can effectively manage feeding, diaper changes, and overall care for your newborn while traveling.

Helpful Resources

https://santorinitraveltots.com/soon-can-travel-childbirth/

https://forums.thebump.com/discussion/7919380/how-soon-is-too-soon-for-a-road-trip-after-birth

https://www.practo.com/healthfeed/is-it-safe-to-travel-immediately-after-childbirth-35799/post

https://www.vinmec.com/en/news/health-news/obstetrics-gynecology-and-assisted-reproductive-technologies-art/how-soon-after-giving-birth-can-i-travel/

https://www.reddit.com/r/daddit/comments/utjlmt/how_soon_after_birth_can_we_take_road_trip_to/

Albert Detrick

Albert’s expertise lies in seamlessly blending travel with work, inspiring others to explore the world while staying connected and productive. His engaging writing style and practical advice make DigiNomadGo.com an essential site for modern travelers seeking to embrace the digital nomad life.

Postpartum Travel: How to Travel with a Newborn

Many moms think that their traveling days are over once they have a baby and they would no longer enjoy a nice and relaxing vacation. The truth is quite the opposite, though, and if you plan everything properly, you can enjoy some quality time as a new family wherever you want. However, there are some things you need to pay attention to, especially if you plan on traveling soon after having the baby. You need to make sure you feel good, that you and your baby are ready to leave the house for a while, and that it’s safe for you all to travel. No matter which transportation option you go for, you need to make sure it suits your needs. Here are some useful tips you might want to check out when it comes to preparing your new family for the trip and making sure you’re fine traveling.

Create a plan

This is probably the most important trip in the world for your family and you should plan everything precisely. You’ll hear that you can’t know what to expect when traveling with a newborn, but the truth is that you need to try to control most of the situations. Making sure you know all the details of your flight, hotel arrangements, and how to get to your hotel from the airport will make you feel calmer and in control of things.

When it comes to packing , think about bringing only the items you’re actually going to use. This will be especially helpful when you’re trying to maneuver a baby stroller through the airport and carry all the luggage through a crowded area. Light packing will allow you to be more focused on getting from one checkup to another without making stops to check your bags.

Consult doctors

You shouldn’t do anything soon after giving birth without talking to your doctor and checking if you’re good to go. Lots of new moms take some time off before going anywhere, and this is especially the case if you had certain problems after giving birth and need to take care of them properly. You need to know that everyone’s body recovers differently and you need to be fully recovered before you leave your home.

In addition to that, check with your child’s pediatrician when it’s safe to take your baby on the road. Babies have a strict schedule when it comes to vaccines and their regular checkups so try not to miss any of them. If you’re traveling to a completely new area you’ve never visited before, ask your pediatrician about the medications you should have with you.

Proper mental care

Traveling for the first time with a newborn can be hard, both mentally and physically, so you need to make sure you’re doing fine. Even though you’ll be on a vacation, make sure you eat properly, especially if you are breastfeeding. Don’t forget to take your vitamins because they’re crucial for your recovery, and try to drink as much water as you can.

Sometimes, the burden of all these things and detailed plans can be hard and you could end up developing a case of serious postpartum depression which can be especially hard if you’re trying to have a good time. If you become overwhelmed, just cut your trip short or try to relax and focus on your baby, resting and connecting with your newborn. If nothing seems to be working, though, just go home and you’ll be fine once you’re back in your nest.

Getting around

A newborn is the perfect travel companion because they still sleep all the time and the only time they’re awake is when they need to eat. This will allow you to explore the city, enjoy a nice meal, and do pretty much everything while having your baby with you. When it comes to making your trip easier for the rest of the family, make sure that you know all the transportation options you’ll need.

A stroller is a must, and you need to find a model that’s practical and that will allow you to move quickly. However, your stroller needs to be comfy so that your baby can sleep as much as possible, so don’t forget that too. On the other hand, if you want to have your baby closer to you in order to feel safer , there are different types of carriers that can allow you to take your baby everywhere with you and even feed it when necessary.

Lastly, make sure to bring some interesting and colorful toys that could soothe your baby. Sometimes crowded places can frighten it, and these items could be helpful. Also, parents like to turn to different apps when it comes to traveling with a baby – from calming noises to apps that tract feeding time – so explore these before you hit the road as well!

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The New Mother: Taking Care of Yourself After Birth

The postpartum period begins after the delivery of your baby and ends when your body has nearly returned to its pre-pregnant state. This period often lasts 6 to 8 weeks.

The postpartum period involves your moving through many changes, both emotionally and physically. You are also learning how to deal with all the changes needed with becoming a new mother. The postpartum period also involves you and your partner learning how to care for your newborn and learning how to function as a changed family unit.

You need to take good care of yourself to rebuild your strength. You will need plenty of rest, good nutrition, and help during the first few weeks.

Every new parent soon learns that babies have different time clocks than adults. A typical newborn wakes up about every 3 hours and needs to be fed, changed, and comforted. Especially if this is your first baby, you and your partner can become overwhelmed by exhaustion. You may not get a solid 8 hours of sleep for several months. Here are ideas to help you get more rest:

In the first few weeks, you need to let someone else take care of all responsibilities other than feeding your baby and taking care of yourself.

Sleep when the baby sleeps. This may be only a few minutes of rest several times a day, but these minutes can add up.

Save steps and time. Have your baby's bed near yours for feedings at night.

It’s nice to have visits from friends and family, but don’t feel that you need to entertain guests. Feel free to excuse yourself for a nap or to feed your baby.

Get outside for a few minutes each day. You can start walking and doing postpartum exercises, as advised by your healthcare provider.

Your body has undergone many changes during pregnancy and birth. You need time to recover. In addition to rest, you need to eat a healthy diet to help you do that.

The weight gained in pregnancy helps build stores for your recovery and for breastfeeding. After delivery, you need to eat a healthy and balanced diet so you can be active and able to care for your baby.

Most lactation experts recommend that you eat when you are hungry. But many mothers may be so tired or busy that food gets forgotten. So it is important to plan simple, healthy meals that include choices from all of the recommended groups from MyPlate .

MyPlate is a guideline to help you eat a healthy diet. MyPlate can help you eat a variety of foods and also get the right amount of calories and fat. The USDA and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have prepared the following guide to help.

MyPlate is divided into 5 food group categories:

Grains. Foods that are made from wheat, rice, oats, cornmeal, barley, or another cereal grain are grain products. Examples include whole wheat, brown rice, and oatmeal.

Vegetables. Vary your vegetables. Choose a variety of vegetables, including dark green, red, and orange vegetables, legumes (peas and beans), and starchy vegetables.

Fruits. Any fruit or 100% fruit juice counts as part of the fruit group. Fruits may be fresh, canned, frozen, or dried, and may be whole, cut-up, or pureed.

Dairy. Milk products and many foods made from milk are considered part of this food group. Focus on fat-free or low-fat products, as well as those that are high in calcium.

Protein. Go lean on protein. Choose low-fat or lean meats and poultry. Vary your protein routine. Choose more fish, nuts, seeds, peas, and beans.

Oils are not a food group, but some oils such as nut oils have important nutrients. Include these in your diet. Others oils such as animal fats are solid. Don't include these in your diet.

You should include exercise and everyday physical activity in your dietary plan.

Visit MyPlate to find more information about the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2015. The site can also give you the right dietary recommendations for your age, sex, and physical activity level.

Most mothers want to lose their pregnancy weight, but extreme dieting and rapid weight loss can harm you and your baby if you are breastfeeding. It can take several months for you to lose the weight you gained during pregnancy. You can reach this goal by cutting out high-fat snacks. Focus on a diet with plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits, balanced with proteins and carbohydrates. Exercise also helps burn calories and tone muscles and limbs.

Along with balanced meals, you should drink more fluids if you are breastfeeding. You may find that you become very thirsty while the baby is nursing. Water and milk are good choices. Try keeping a pitcher of water and even some healthy snacks beside your bed or breastfeeding chair.

Talk with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian if you want to learn more about postpartum nutrition. Certified lactation consultants can also help with advice about nutrition while breastfeeding.

Help for new parents

New as well as experienced parents soon realize that babies need a lot of work. Meeting the constant needs of a newborn involves time and energy. It often takes you away from other responsibilities in the home.

You and your partner probably will do fine on your own, but having someone else helping with the household responsibilities usually makes the adjustment to a new baby easier. You and your partner can focus on your needs and the needs of your baby, rather than on the laundry or dirty dishes.

Helpers can be family, friends, or a paid home care provider. A family member such as the new baby's grandmother or aunt may be able to come for a few days or longer. Home care providers offer a variety of services. These include nursing care of the new mother and baby and housekeeping and care of other children.

Whoever you decide to have as helpers, make clear all the things you expect them to do. Communication is important in preventing hurt feelings or misunderstandings when emotions are fragile these first few weeks. Have your helpers take over chores such as cooking, cleaning, laundry, and grocery shopping. This will help you take care of yourself, and keep you from limiting time with your baby.

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Postpartum complications: What you need to know

After you give birth, you're likely focused on the care that your baby needs. But health problems can happen to you in the weeks and months after childbirth. They are called postpartum complications.

Some of these problems can be life-threatening. A pregnancy-related death is the death of a person while pregnant or within one year of the end of a pregnancy. More than half of pregnancy-related deaths happen after a baby is born.

In recent decades in the U.S., there has been a large rise in pregnancy-related deaths. Black, American Indian and Alaska Native people are 2 to 3 times more likely to die of pregnancy-related causes than are white people. More than 60% of pregnancy-related deaths are thought to be preventable.

Why some problems may be overlooked

After childbirth, it's common to feel tired and have some pain. It also is common to deal with lack of sleep, changing hormones and breastfeeding concerns.

You might not know what's typical for recovery after childbirth or what symptoms may signal a problem. And you may not know when to seek medical care.

If you give birth in a hospital, your healthcare team might not find risk factors for postpartum complications before you leave the hospital.

People often don't see a healthcare professional until 4 to 6 weeks after childbirth. As many as 40% of people don't have an appointment with their healthcare team at all for a checkup after giving birth. Not being able to visit a healthcare professional and not having insurance to cover the cost are two reasons why that visit might not happen. As a result, many people get little or no guidance on recovery after giving birth.

Common postpartum complications

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), common causes of pregnancy-related deaths are:

Diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels, called cardiovascular diseases.
Other medical conditions often present before childbirth.
A serious infection such as sepsis.
Heavy bleeding after giving birth, called hemorrhage.
A disease of the heart muscle called cardiomyopathy. This condition makes it hard for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body.
A blockage in one of the blood vessels in the lungs that carry blood from the heart to the lungs. Blood clots that travel to the lungs from the legs, called thrombotic pulmonary embolism, often are the cause of the blockage.
High blood pressure, called hypertension, or high blood pressure linked with protein spilled into the urine during pregnancy, called preeclampsia.
A rare condition that happens when the fluid that surrounds the baby during pregnancy, called amniotic fluid, or fetal material such as fetal cells enters a pregnant person's bloodstream. This is called amniotic fluid embolism.
Problems with the medicines used to prevent pain during delivery or surgery, called anesthetic.

Sometimes the cause of a pregnancy-related death is not known.

Risk factors

The overall risk of dying of a pregnancy-related complication is low. But people with chronic conditions such as heart disease, obesity or high blood pressure are at greater risk of dying of pregnancy-related complications. If you have these risk factors, take extra care of your health after giving birth.

Warning signs

Many postpartum complications can be treated if found early.

Seek emergency medical care if you have:

Chest pain.
Trouble breathing or shortness of breath.
Extreme tiredness that doesn't get better with rest.
Thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby.

Call your healthcare professional if you have:

Bleeding that soaks through more than one pad an hour or passing blood clots the size of an egg or bigger.
A cut from surgery, also called an incision, that isn't healing.
A leg that has changed color or swells and is painful or warm to the touch.
A temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher.
A headache that doesn't get better even after taking medicine, or a bad headache with vision changes.
More than one blood pressure reading of 150/100 or greater if you're measuring your blood pressure at home after giving birth.

How to prevent postpartum problems

Your health should be one of your main concerns after childbirth. Start thinking about your postpartum care plan before you give birth. Talk with your healthcare professional about that plan.

After childbirth, talk to your healthcare professional about your risk of a pregnancy-related complication. Your risk might be higher if you had a problem during pregnancy such as gestational diabetes or high blood pressure. Your risk also may be higher if you had a cesarean birth. Ask about special care you may need. Learn the symptoms of problems that you could have.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says to make postpartum care an ongoing process rather than a single visit after you give birth. Have contact with your healthcare professional by phone or in person within three weeks of delivery. Within 12 weeks of delivery, see your healthcare professional for a complete checkup.

If you have trouble making time for an appointment, contact your care team and ask about your options. If possible, ask a family member or friend for help with child care while you go to your appointment.

During the appointment, your healthcare professional checks your mood and emotional well-being. You can talk about birth control and how long to wait before getting pregnant again. You can review information about your baby's care and feeding. Tell your healthcare professional about your sleep habits and talk about any concerns you may have about being too tired.

The physical exam might include a check of your breasts, belly, vagina, cervix and uterus to make sure you're healing well. This is a good time to talk about any concerns you have. That may include when you can start having sex again and getting used to life with a new baby.

Also, when you see anyone on your healthcare team in the year after childbirth, tell them when you gave birth. This can help your care team know whether any symptoms you have might be linked to pregnancy.

Postpartum care for women up to one year after pregnancy. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Effective Health Care Program. https://effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/products/postpartum-care-one-year/protocol. Accessed Dec. 11, 2023.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Committee Opinion No. 736: Optimizing postpartum care. Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2018; doi:10.1097/AOG.0000000000002628.
Pregnancy-related deaths in the United States: Most pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/hearher/pregnancy-related-deaths/. Accessed Dec. 11, 2023.
You know your body best. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/hearher/pregnant-postpartum-women/index.html.Accessed Dec. 11, 2023.
Pregnancy mortality surveillance system. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/maternal-mortality/pregnancy-mortality-surveillance-system.htm. Accessed Dec. 12, 2023.
Expert view: 5 reasons why you need a postpartum support network. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/5-reasons-why-you-need-a-postpartum-support-network. Accessed Dec. 11, 2023.

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Your body after baby: The first 6 weeks

Your body changes a lot after you give birth. Some changes are physical and others are emotional.

If you’re worried about a discomfort, call your health care provider. it could be a warning sign of a serious health problem., go to all of your postpartum checkups, even if you’re feeling fine. some health conditions after pregnancy need medical care., talk to your provider before you take any medicine to treat a discomfort. if you’re breastfeeding, some medicines aren’t safe for your baby..

How does your body change in the weeks after giving birth?

Many things are happening in your body right after you have a baby. During pregnancy, your body changed a lot. It worked hard to keep your baby safe and healthy. Now that your baby is here, your body is changing again. Some of these changes are physical, like your breasts getting full of milk. Others are emotional, like feeling extra stress.

Many discomforts and body changes after giving birth are normal. But sometimes they’re signs or symptoms of a health problem that needs treatment. Even if you’re feeling fine, it’s important that you go to all of your postpartum checkups . These medical checkups give you an opportunity to ask your health care provider or health care team questions and can help your provider spot and treat health conditions. If you have a very serious health problem in the days and weeks after giving birth, postpartum care can save your life .

PHYSICAL CHANGES

Perineum soreness

The perineum is the area between your vagina and rectum. It stretches and may tear during labor and vaginal birth. It’s often sore after giving birth, and it may be more sore if you have an episiotomy. This is a cut made at the opening of the vagina to help let your baby out.

What you can do:

Do Kegel exercises. These exercises strengthen the muscles in the pelvic area. To do Kegel exercises, squeeze the muscles that you use to stop yourself from passing urine (peeing). Hold the muscles tight for 10 seconds and then release. Try to do this at least 10 times in a row, three times a day.
Put a cold pack on your perineum. Use ice wrapped in a towel. Or you can buy cold packs that you freeze in your freezer.
Sit on a pillow or a donut-shaped cushion.
Soak in a warm bath.
Wipe from front to back after going to the bathroom. This can help prevent infection as your episiotomy heals.
Ask your provider about pain medicine.

Afterbirth pains

Afterbirth pains are belly cramps you feel as your uterus (womb) shrinks back to its regular size after pregnancy. The cramps should go away in a few days. Right after you give birth, your uterus is round and hard and weighs about 2½ pounds. By about 6 weeks after birth, it weighs only 2 ounces.

Ask your provider about over-the-counter medicine you can take for pain. Over-the-counter medicine is medicine you can buy without a prescription from your provider.

Body changes after a c-section

Cesarean birth (also called c-section) is surgery in which your baby is born through a cut that your provider makes in your belly and uterus. A c-section is major surgery, so it may take a while for you to recover. You may be really tired for the first few days or weeks after a c-section because you lost blood during the surgery. The incision (cut) on your belly may be sore.

Ask your provider for pain medicine. Check with them before you take any medicine for pain.
Ask your partner, family and friends to help you with the baby and around the house.
Get rest when you can. Sleep when your baby sleeps , even when your baby naps during the day.
Don’t lift from a squatting position. Don’t lift anything heavier than your baby.
Support your belly with pillows when you’re breastfeeding .
Drink plenty of water to help replace fluids in your body.

Vaginal discharge

After your baby is born, your body gets rid of the blood and tissue that was inside your uterus. This is called vaginal discharge or lochia. For the first few days, it’s heavy, bright red and may contain blood clots . Over time, the flow gets less and lighter in color. You may have discharge for a few weeks or even for a month or more.

Use sanitary pads until the discharge stops.

Breast engorgement

This is when your breasts swell as they fill with milk. It usually happens a few days after giving birth. Your breasts may feel tender and sore. The discomfort usually goes away once you start breastfeeding regularly. If you’re not breastfeeding, it may last until your breasts stop making milk, usually within a few days.

Breastfeed your baby. Try not to miss a feeding or go a long time between feedings. Don’t skip night feedings.
Before you breastfeed your baby, express a small amount of milk from your breast with a breast pump or by hand.
Take a warm shower or lay warm towels on your breasts to help your milk flow. If your engorgement is really painful, put cold packs on your breasts.
If your breasts are leaking between feedings, wear nursing pads in your bra so your clothes don’t get wet.
Tell your provider if your breasts stay swollen and are painful.
If you’re not planning to breastfeed, wear a firm, supportive bra (like a sports bra).

Nipple pain

If you’re breastfeeding, you may have nipple plain during the first few days, especially if your nipples crack.

Talk to your provider or a lactation consultant to be sure your baby is latching on to your breast the right way. A lactation consultant is a person trained to help women breastfeed, even women who have breastfeeding problems. Latching on is when your baby’s mouth is securely attached to (placed around) your nipple.
Ask your provider about cream that’s safe to put on your nipples to ease discomfort like cracking or dryness.
After breastfeeding, massage some breast milk onto your nipples. Let your breasts air dry

Lots of women have swelling in their hands, feet and face during pregnancy. It’s caused by extra fluids in your body. It may take time for the swelling to go away after you have your baby.

Lie on your left side when resting or sleeping.
Put your feet up.
Try to stay cool and wear loose clothes.
Drink plenty of water.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are painful, swollen veins in and around the anus that may hurt or bleed. Hemorrhoids are common during and after pregnancy.

Ask your provider about using an over-the-counter spray or cream for pain.
Eat foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables and whole-grain breads and cereals.
Drink lots of water.
Try not to strain when you’re having a bowel movement (pooping).

What is constipation?

Constipation is when you don’t have bowel movements, you don’t have them often or your stools (poop) are hard to pass. You also may have painful gas. This may happen for a few days after you give birth.

Eat foods that are high in fiber.
Ask your provider about medicine to take.

Urinary problems

In the first few days after giving birth, you may feel pain or burning when you urinate (pee). Or you may try to urinate but find that you can’t. Sometimes you may not be able to stop urinating. This is called incontinence. It usually goes away as your pelvic muscles become stronger again.

What you can do for pain, burning or if you have trouble urinating:

Run water in the sink when you go to the bathroom.
If the pain continues, tell your provider.

What you can do for incontinence: Do Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic muscles.

This happens often to new moms, especially at night. It’s caused by all the changing hormones in your body after pregnancy.

Sleep on a towel to help keep your sheets and pillow dry.
Don’t use too many blankets or wear warm clothes to bed.

You may have lost blood during labor and birth. This can make your body tired. And your baby probably doesn’t let you sleep all night!

Sleep when your baby sleeps, even when your baby naps during the day.
Eat healthy foods , like fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads and pasta, and lean meat and chicken. Limit sweets and foods with a lot of fat.
Ask your partner, family and friends to help with the baby and around the house.
Limit visitors. You’ll have plenty of time for family and friends to meet your new baby when you’re feeling rested.

Stress about your baby weight

You lose about 10 pounds right away after giving birth and a little more within the first week. It takes time to lose all the weight you gained. Some women don’t lose all the weight they gained during pregnancy right away. This can cause a lot of stress. What’s most important is making sure you eat healthy, nutrient dense meals, and do something active every day. Eating healthy and being active every day helps boost your energy level and can make you feel better. If you’re at a healthy weight, you’re less likely to have health conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure , than if you have excess weight (or are underweight). And just in case you get pregnant again, or if you’re planning to have another baby sometime in the future, it’s best to be at a healthy weight before your next pregnancy.

Talk to your provider about your weight. Eat healthy foods. Limit sweets and foods with a lot of unhealthy fat.
Ask your provider about being active, especially if you’ve had a c-section. Begin slowly and increase your activity over time. Walking and swimming are great activities for new moms. Do something active every day.
Breastfeed your baby. Breastfeeding can help with losing some of the weight you gained during pregnancy because it burns calories
Don’t try to lose too much weight too fast. Your body needs nutrients from food to heal. If you’re breastfeeding, losing weight too fast can reduce your milk supply.
Don’t feel badly if you don’t lose the weight as quickly as you’d like. It takes time for your body and your belly to get back in shape. Staying active and eating healthy and fresh foods over time is more important than getting in shape right after giving birth.

Skin changes

You may have stretch marks on your belly where your skin stretched during pregnancy. Some women also get them on their thighs, hips and bottom. They may not disappear after giving birth, but they do fade over time.

Use creams or lotions on your skin. They don’t make stretch marks go away, but they can help reduce itching that comes with stretch marks.

Hair changes

Your hair may have seemed thicker and fuller during pregnancy. This is because high hormone levels in your body made you lose less hair during pregnancy. After your baby is born, your hair may thin out. You may even lose hair. Hair loss usually stops within 6 months after you give birth. Your hair should regain its normal fullness within a year.

Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. The nutrients in fruits and veggies may help protect your hair and help it grow.
Be gentle with your hair. Don’t wear tight ponytails, braids or rollers. These can pull and stress your hair.
Use the cool setting on your hair dryer.

Getting your period again

If you’re not breastfeeding, your period may start again 6 to 8 weeks after giving birth. If you are breastfeeding, it may not start again for months. Some women don’t have a period again until they stop breastfeeding. When your period returns, it may not be the same as before you were pregnant. It may be shorter or longer than it was. Over time it often returns to the way it was before you got pregnant.

Getting pregnant again

Many health care providers recommend waiting 4 to 6 weeks after giving birth to give your body time to heal before you have sex. When you’re ready for sex, be careful – you can get pregnant even before your period starts. This is because you may ovulate (release an egg) before you get your period again.

Use birth control to help make sure you don’t get pregnant again until you’re ready. Birth control helps keep you from getting pregnant. Examples of birth control include intrauterine devices (also called IUDs), implants, the pill and condoms. Talk to your provider about which birth control to use, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Some types of birth control can reduce your milk supply. Breastfeeding is not birth control. It does not prevent pregnancy.

For most women, it’s best to wait at least 18 months (1½ years) between giving birth and getting pregnant again. Too little time between pregnancies increases your risk of preterm birth (birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy). Preterm babies are more likely to have health problems than babies born on time. Your body needs time to fully recover from your last pregnancy before it’s ready for your next pregnancy.

EMOTIONAL CHANGES

Feeling stressed and overwhelmed

Your baby didn’t come with a set of instructions. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Taking care of a baby is a lot to think about.

Tell your partner how you feel. Let your partner help take care of the baby.
Ask your friends and family for help. Tell them exactly what they can do for you, like going grocery shopping or making meals.
Find a support group of new moms. A support group is a group of people who have the same kinds of concerns. They meet together to try to help each other. Ask your provider to help you find a support group of new moms near where you live. Or look for a support group online.
Eat healthy foods and do something active every day.
Don’t smoke, drink alcohol or use harmful drugs. All of these things are bad for you and can make it hard for you to handle stress.

Baby blues and postpartum depression

Baby blues (also called postpartum blues) are feelings of sadness a woman may have in the first few days after having a baby. Baby blues can happen 2 to 3 days after you have your baby and can last up to 2 weeks. They usually go away on their own, and you don’t need any treatment.

Postpartum depression (also called PPD) is a kind of depression that some women get after having a baby. It's strong feelings of sadness, anxiety (worry) and tiredness that last for a long time after giving birth. These feelings can make it hard for you to take care of yourself and your baby. PPD is a medical condition that needs treatment to get better. It’s the most common complication for women who have just had a baby.

What you can do about the baby blues:

Get as much sleep as you can.
Don’t drink alcohol , use street drugs or use harmful drugs . All of these can affect your mood and make you feel worse. And they can make it hard for you to take care of your baby.
Ask for help from your partner, family and friends. Tell them exactly what they can do for you.
Take time for yourself. Ask someone you trust to watch your baby so you can get out of the house.
Connect with other new moms. Ask your provider to help you find a support group of new moms.
If you have sad feelings that last longer than 2 weeks, tell your health care provider.

What you can do about postpartum depression:

If you think you have PPD, tell your provider.
Learn about risk factors for PPD and signs and symptoms of PPD.
Ask your provider about treatment for PPD.
If you’re worried about hurting yourself or your baby, call emergency services (911) right away.

Going back to work or school

It may be hard for you to leave your baby with a caregiver all day, even if it’s a family member or a close friend. It also may be hard to find a caregiver you trust. You and your partner may disagree about what type of child care is best for your baby. You may be upset that you can’t stay home with your baby all the time.

Talk to your partner about child care. Figure out how much you can spend and what kind of care you want. For example, you can have a caregiver come to your home to take care of your baby. Or you can take your baby to a child care center.
Ask friends and family about child care they use. Maybe you can use the same person or service.
If you’re using a child care center, ask for names and phone numbers of people who use the center. Call to ask how they feel about the center’s care.
Ask your boss if you can ease back into work. Maybe you can work a few hours a day at first, or just a few days a week.

Your relationship with your partner

Both you and your partner are getting used to having a baby around. Your partner may be just as stressed and nervous about being a parent as you are. Rely on each other to figure things out.

Learn about taking care of your baby together. Read baby-care books and go to baby-care classes.
Let your partner help with the baby. Don’t try to do everything yourself.
Talk to each other. Talking about your feelings can help keep you from feeling hurt and frustrated.
Make time for just the two of you. Go for a walk or out to dinner. Ask someone you trust to take care of the baby for an hour or two.
Tell your partner what your provider says about how long to wait to have sex again. Ask your provider to talk to your partner, if you think that’s helpful.

Last reviewed: September, 2023

See also: Your postpartum checkups , Warning signs of postpartum health problems , Maternal death and pregnancy-related death , Postpartum depression , Baby blues after pregnancy , Keeping breast milk safe and healthy , Birth control , How long should you wait before getting pregnant again

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I Had A Traumatic Birth Experience. Here's What I Wish I Had Known.

On Assignment For HuffPost

Throughout my pregnancy, I fantasized about the “golden hour” — the first hour after birth — that I’d share with my baby when he arrived. I pictured myself smelling his head, stroking his tiny back and whispering “Happy birthday” and “I love you” as I gently encouraged him to latch and begin breastfeeding.

But because I spiked a fever during labor, hospital policy required my son to go directly to the NICU for a precautionary stay where they’d monitor him for signs of infection. Instead of a golden hour, I got just a few precious minutes before a nurse pried his little fingers from my hospital gown and whisked him away.

That was just one moment among many that added up to a traumatic birth experience. There was the nurse who tied the band of a fetal heart-rate monitor so tightly around my belly I could barely breathe. Another rolled her eyes and tossed a barf bag at me when I pleaded with her to raise the head of my bed before I threw up. Then there was the NICU nurse who grabbed my baby from me and force-fed him a bottle of formula because I wasn’t “doing it right.” I was devastated by all of it.

I’m far from alone when it comes to birth trauma. Some estimates suggest up to 44% of birthing people experience trauma during childbirth, including physical or psychological injury and serious health complications. That can lead to relationship issues, disrupt the joy of having a baby, impact future family-planning decisions and cause long-term mental health concerns. All of that was certainly true for me.

The author and her son in the NICU shortly after giving birth.

Maya Jackson, the founder and executive director of Mobilizing African American Mothers through Empowerment , a pregnancy and birth services organization that Jackson said has served over 700 families since its founding in 2018, sees the medicalization of birth as a key reason for high levels of birth trauma.

“We have medicalized birth as treating a disease rather than caring for a person,” she said. “It’s less about the person’s lived experiences, things that may have impacted them over the span of their lives, and more about getting the baby out — and getting the baby out by any means necessary.”

Sometimes trauma during childbirth is hard to avoid. A medical emergency, for example, where your providers have to act fast to save your life or your baby’s, will be stressful no matter what. But other times, advocating for yourself when something feels wrong, or having someone else advocate for you, can prevent a bad experience from becoming worse.

Childbirth experts say there are a few things you can do, before and during birth, to have the best experience possible and stand up for yourself if you feel you aren’t being heard.

1. Know your own body and health history

The first step to advocating for yourself is knowing yourself. That’s why Jackson advises her clients to get to know their own bodies and health histories — including family health histories — before getting pregnant. That might mean monitoring your body so you know your baseline — for example, your typical energy levels and what “healthy” feels like for you — paying careful attention to things that trigger your anxiety, and asking your relatives about their medical histories so you know of any illnesses or issues that could come up during pregnancy.

In doing so, pregnant people will “have a blueprint of how their body works and functions, and if things do arise, they are able to articulate, from their lived experience, what they know to be true about themselves,” Jackson said. “I think a lot of times, when we’re receiving care from medical providers, we’ve been taught that they’re the only experts in the room. But the first expert is you.”

2. Choose providers who support your birth goals

When you’re thinking about the kind of birth experience you want to have, the providers and location you choose will be critical.

Kayleigh Summers, a licensed clinical social worker who founded The Birth Trauma Mama after her own near-fatal childbirth experience, said choosing providers who understand informed consent and collaborative decision-making is the first step.

“I would want a provider that truly believes that I am the expert on my own body and they are the expert on everything on the medical side of birth — and that both of those expertises are equally important,” she said.

Jackson recommended that families learn as much as they can before deciding where to give birth, such as the hospital’s cesarean section rate, as well any policies that might affect your birthing experience, like whether you’re allowed to eat during labor, if monitors must be worn at all times, and if a doula is seen as a visitor or member of the medical team.

And speaking of doulas: Summers and Jackson agreed that they can be wonderful additions to your birth team, in part because they can offer a continuity of care that you might not get in a hospital setting, where you may not even know the nurses and doctors delivering your baby.

While doulas are not a silver bullet — they’re not going to eliminate the possibility of birth trauma, for example — they can be a critical resource, providing information and explaining medical terms while you’re in labor. And though a doula can’t speak for you, they can help you refocus and find your voice.

“When you’re in the midst of trauma, when you’re already being traumatized, it’s really difficult to access this advocacy part of you,” Summers said. A doula can help guide you in those moments.

3. Ask to pause the room

Sometimes birth trauma happens because decisions are made too quickly and patients feel like they didn’t have a say in their own care. One way to catch your breath in those moments is to ask your medical team to stop and pause the room.

Start by asking if it’s a medical emergency — if that’s the case, you might have just seconds to make a decision. If it’s not, there’s typically some time to take a breath. You can say, “I need everything to stop right now,” Summers explained — your doula can help advocate for a pause, too — and then get your bearings.

Jackson said families can ask questions to find out why a certain treatment or intervention is being recommended, request to speak to another provider or have someone else perform a procedure, or ask for the charge nurse (the chief nurse on duty) if you feel your nurse isn’t listening to your needs. You also have the right to decline care and have your reasons documented.

4. Have a reset conversation with your provider

Simply put, sometimes the reason your birth experience is going sideways is bad vibes from your nurse or doctor. If that’s the case, see if you can shift that energy.

“If you have a grumpy nurse who’s not being kind — which I hope is a rarity — I will sometimes have patients just say, ‘Hey, can we talk for a second? I feel like there’s something that’s off here. Am I upsetting you in some way? Because I’m not getting the warm and fuzzies. What can we do to have a better partnership here?’” Summers said. “It doesn’t always work, but I do think it can disarm nurses.”

If you’re still having issues, talk to the hospital’s patient navigator or the charge nurse on duty about your options (or ask your support person to do it for you). Be sure your concerns are documented by the hospital.

No matter how your birth goes, you’re entitled to your feelings — whatever they may be, Summers said.

You can feel grateful, of course — for your baby, for your own life — but you can also “be angry and devastated and sad and full of grief about the experience you had and the losses that you had within that experience,” Summers said. “You can hold two things at the same time.”

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The number of women dying during pregnancy or soon after childbirth has reached its highest level in almost 20 years, according to data from a major UK study, conducted by MBRRACE-UK. Experts said the figures raise "further concern" about maternity services and called for matters such as pre-pregnancy health and personalised care to be "prioritised as a matter of urgency".

Women in the UK: share your experience of maternity care, birth trauma, and postnatal care

We’re keen to hear from women in the UK who experienced birth trauma, and about their experience of care in pregnancy and after giving birth

A health minister has apologised to women affected by birth trauma after a parliamentary inquiry that heard “harrowing” testimonies from more than 1,300 women about giving birth found a “postcode lottery” for maternity care.

The birth trauma inquiry, led by the Conservative MP Theo Clarke and Labour MP Rosie Duffield, will call for an overhaul of the UK’s maternity and postnatal care .

We’d like to hear from women in the UK who have experienced birth trauma, or inadequate care during pregnancy, birth or in their post-natal period.

How has this experience affected you? Did you experience long-term problems affecting your health after giving birth? What might have improved your experience and outcome?

Tell us if you've experienced birth trauma in the UK, or felt that you received problematic care during your pregnancy, delivery or after giving birth.

Please include as much detail as possible

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When can I go back to work after having a baby?

There's no straightforward answer regarding going back to work after having a baby – there are lots of factors that may weigh into when you decide to return to your job. As with most aspects of pregnancy and the postpartum period, there's no one-size-fits-all rule on when to return to work after birth, and every new mom's situation will be different. Some moms return to work just a few weeks after having a baby, while others take up to a year (or longer) of maternity leave .

Every experience is different, but generally, it takes around six weeks to feel relief from most postpartum symptoms after having a baby. While six weeks has long been the traditional timeline for rest and recuperation after a birth, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends ongoing postpartum care from birth to 12 weeks.

Six weeks is also the standard recovery time allotted for childbirth-related short-term disability leave. Short-term disability is a benefit in which your employer, through your health insurance policy, covers a portion (or all) of your paycheck while you recover from childbirth. Additionally, most daycare centers across the U.S. won't accept infants until they're at least 6 weeks old.

While six weeks is often cited, about 60 percent of Americans qualify for 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected time off after the birth, adoption, or placement of a child through the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). If you can afford to take this amount of unpaid time off work and you qualify for FMLA, your employer is required to let you take three months of parental leave.

Because there’s currently no universal paid family leave program in the U.S., a new mom’s average time away from work after having a baby varies widely. Only 23 percent of workers in the U.S. have access to paid leave through their employer, leaving the rest of working parents to figure out how much parental leave they can afford to take.

For many new moms, financial stress is one of the main reasons contributing to their decision to return to work. But many organizations and politicians support at least 12 weeks of paid parental leave, and proposed legislation to provide at least some of that is in the works.

As anyone who’s ever brought a newborn home can tell you, taking care of an infant is exhausting. In addition to the physical tolls that postpartum recovery takes, you’ll also be dealing with the other aspects of the so-called “fourth trimester” in those first several weeks after birth – fatigue , hormonal changes, and the demands of taking care of your tiny new human 24/7. You’ll be busy with around-the-clock feedings and diaper changes , and you may not be able to function as well as you’re used to – now imagine adding a full-time job to that mix!

Some moms are never ready to go back to work after having a baby, nor do they want to. If your family unit can afford it and if you and your partner are on board with the idea of you staying home even temporarily, being a stay-at-home mom is always an option, too.

Ultimately, the decision of when to return to work is up to you, based on your access to parental leave benefits, your financial situation, and your own personal readiness. Take all of this into account as you're discussing parental leave options with your partner (if you have one) and your family. You'll know what's best for you – and you can start to prepare for what's next.

If you're planning on returning to work sooner than six weeks after having your baby, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider, who can check in on your physical recovery.

How to prepare for going back to work after having a baby

Once you’ve settled on when you’ll return to work, it's a good idea to start thinking about how you’ll do it. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Figure out your childcare situation. Having a caregiver – whether it's a grandparent, a nanny , or a daycare center – whom you trust taking care of your baby while you’re back at work will make the transition a lot easier. Also, be sure to introduce your baby and their caregiver before your first day of work to make sure everyone (yourself included!) is comfortable with the new arrangements.
Consider returning to work part-time. If you’re okay with the pay cut that may come with it, and if your employer is open to it, easing back into work might make the transition easier, both physically and emotionally.
Request more flexibility up front. Whether you're hoping to work from home or will need to come in late every so often because of pediatrician appointments or childcare schedules, your manager will likely be more accommodating if you’re honest about your needs and expectations from the start.
Ask for help. Confide in a trusted colleague or join a parents’ group at work – do what you can to connect with people who’ve also transitioned back to work after having a child. It may make you feel more supported and less alone.
If you’re breastfeeding, figure out how you’ll pump on the job. Employers are required by law to provide their nursing employees with private, comfortable accommodations where they can express milk, which is a must for breastfeeding as a working mom. Figure out the logistics of this before you return to work (Where is the nursing room? Is there a refrigerator in it?), and make sure to have the right equipment on hand, including a portable breast pump .
Don't overdo it. If your job requires physical labor, talk to your manager about possibly modifying your responsibilities, which you also might’ve done while you were pregnant. You don’t want to overexert yourself and risk injury while you’re still recovering.
Be kind to yourself. This transition can be difficult, and you may have a few rough days in the beginning. Remember that your hormones are still in flux, your emotions can feel like a roller coaster, and you may feel overwhelmed – and that's all normal.

The baby blues

Signs of a good daycare center

Paternity leave: Here's what you need to know

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Paternity leave: A guide for fathers and partners

Postpartum recovery timeline

Working while pregnant: Tips for the third trimester

Maternity leave: A guide for expecting moms

A mom in her pajamas sitting on a bed, bottle-feeding her newborn baby.

BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies .

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 2018. Employment considerations during pregnancy and the postpartum period. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2018/04/employment-considerations-during-pregnancy-and-the-postpartum-period Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 2018. Optimizing Postpartum Care. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2018/05/optimizing-postpartum-care Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

Cleveland Clinic. 2021. C-Section Recovery Timeline and Aftercare. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/c-section-recovery/ Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

Kaiser Family Foundation. 2021. Paid leave in the U.S. https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/fact-sheet/paid-leave-in-u-s/ Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

The Society for Human Resource Management. 2021. House Passes Build Back Better Act with Paid-Leave and ACA 'Firewall' Provisions. https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/benefits/pages/house-passes-build-back-better-act-with-paid-leave-and-aca-subsidy-provisions.aspx Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

Office on Women’s Health. 2018. What the law says about breastfeeding and work. https://www.womenshealth.gov/supporting-nursing-moms-work/what-law-says-about-breastfeeding-and-work Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

Harvard Business Review. 2019. How to return to work after taking parental leave. https://hbr.org/2019/08/how-to-return-to-work-after-taking-parental-leave Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

BetterUp. 2021. Advice on going back to work after maternity leave. https://www.betterup.com/blog/going-back-to-work-after-maternity-leave Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

U.S. Department of Labor. Undated. Family and Medical Leave Act. https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fmla Opens a new window [Accessed February 2022]

Where to go next

Kourtney Kardashian details her postpartum recovery plan after son Rocky’s birth

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Kourtney Kardashian is opening up about how she recovered after giving birth to her and Travis Barker’s son , Rocky, in November 2023.

The “Kardashians” star explained that after she gave birth, she focused on “eating warm, nourishing foods, keeping hair dry and not going outside.”

“I started taking walks outside with the baby after about a week or two to get some fresh air. I also kept very cozy, nurturing vibes at home like drinking different hot teas throughout the day and playing relaxing jazz music (and Christmas music because it was that time of year),” she shared in a recent post for her lifestyle blog, Poosh.

In addition to limiting her time outdoors, she also restricted her physical exercises and “did not run, jump or do any bouncing or sit-ups for the first six months.”

However, Kardashian, 45, did enjoy a weekly massage, called Abhyanga, that included “customized oils made with herbs specifically formulated” for her.

“It’s nice when mom can take an hour to herself and dad can take some extra time to bond with the baby,” she said.

Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker with their baby

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The Poosh founder has also tried several health and wellness products –– including colostrum and collagen supplements –– since welcoming the little one.

Kardashian has previously spoken out about her postpartum journey and even reflected on the “pressure” people put on themselves to “bounce back.”

“Your body is beautiful at all stages. During pregnancy as we are glowing and growing, postpartum as we are healing and shrinking, and then that period I find hardest as our bodies are still adjusting,” she captioned an Instagram Story of her swimming in the ocean last month.

Kardashian added that she tries “to be kind” to herself while her “body finds a new normal.”

“The pressure put on us to bounce back when everything is new and different isn’t realistic,” she said.

Kardashian also started to post more photos of herself and her postpartum body and even clapped back at a hater by writing , “I LOVE this body that gave me my 3 big babies and my little baby boy.”

Most recently, she admitted that she was “not feeling quite ready” when shooting a promotional shoot for Season 5 of “The Kardashians” when she was “3 months postpartum.”

“Even though my baby boy was with me all day on set it’s not the same when I’m covered in makeup, in high heels and wearing a dress versus our snuggly days at home in pajamas. But something I’ve been doing lately is shifting my mind set and thinking of the positives!” she wrote on Instagram Saturday.

In addition to Rocky, Kardashian shares three other children –– Mason, 14, Penelope, 11, and Reign, 9 –– with ex Scott Disick.

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Lexington woman pleads guilty to homicide by child abuse after giving birth, leaving child in trash bag

C OLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - A woman accused of placing her newborn baby in a trash bag on the floor of her car pleaded guilty to homicide by child abuse Monday morning.

Brennan Geller, 27, was arrested in August 2018 at the age of 21 after deputies with the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department (LCSD) found a newborn’s body in her car alongside several bloody towels. They knew to search her car after she was treated at a hospital for blood loss without the child.

In court on Monday, Eleventh Circuit Deputy Solicitor Suzanne Mayes told the judge a summary of the case.

On August 3, 2018, Geller went into labor at around 10:30 a.m., according to Mayes. She searched “what to expect while in labor” on her phone at around this time.

At around 6 p.m. that evening, Geller left her work claiming she wasn’t feeling well, and drove to a parking area where she stayed until 10 p.m. She gave birth in her car during this time.

Shortly after 10 p.m., she searched “how much blood can you lose after pregnancy” on her phone.

Around two hours later, Geller was taken to the hospital Saturday morning due to blood loss. The physician who treated her noticed she did not have the child with her and alerted authorities, resulting in LCSD searching her car.

The child was presumed to be between 37 and 39 weeks gestation. The child’s autopsy found air in her lungs and oxygenated skin, indicating the child survived birth.

Geller’s boyfriend, the father of the child, had asked Geller repeatedly if she was pregnant during her pregnancy, according to Mayes. Geller denied that she was pregnant.

Geller will be sentenced on Wednesday. The penalty for homicide by child abuse is anywhere between 20 years to a life sentence.

Feel more informed, prepared, and connected with WIS. For more free content like this, subscribe to our email newsletter , and download our apps . Have feedback that can help us improve? Click here .

The 2025 Real ID deadline for new licenses is really real this time, DHS says

If you plan on flying around the country in 2025 and beyond, you might want to listen up.

You have about 365 days to make your state-issued driver’s license or identification “Real ID” compliant, per the Department of Homeland Security.

The Real ID compliance is part of a larger act passed by Congress in 2005 to set “minimum security standards” for the distribution of identification materials, including driver’s licenses. This means that certain federal agencies, like the Transportation Security Administration or DHS, won’t be able to accept state-issued forms of identification without the Real ID seal.

It's taken a while for the compliance to stick, with DHS originally giving a 2020 deadline before pushing it back a year, then another two years and another two years after that due to “backlogged transactions” at MVD offices nationwide, according to previous USA TODAY reports.

You won’t be able to board federally regulated commercial aircraft, enter nuclear power plants, or access certain facilities if your identification documents aren’t Real ID compliant by May 7, 2025.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here’s what we know about Real IDs, including where to get one and why you should think about getting one.

Do I have to get a Real ID?

Not necessarily.

If you have another form of identification that TSA accepts, there probably isn’t an immediate reason to obtain one, at least for travel purposes. But if you don’t have another form of identification and would like to travel around the country in the near future, you should try to obtain one.

Here are all the other TSA-approved forms of identification:

◾ State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License

◾ U.S. passport

◾ U.S. passport card

◾ DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)

◾ U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents

◾ Permanent resident card

◾ Border crossing card

◾ An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized , Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe

◾ HSPD-12 PIV card

◾ Foreign government-issued passport

◾ Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card

◾ Transportation worker identification credential

◾ U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)

◾ U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

◾ Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

However, federal agencies “may only accept” state-issued driver’s licenses or identification cards that are Real ID compliant if you are trying to gain access to a federal facility. That includes TSA security checkpoints.

Enhanced driver’s licenses, only issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont, are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards, according to DHS.

What can I use my Real ID for?

For most people, it's all about boarding flights.

You can only use your Real ID card to obtain access to "nuclear power plants, access certain facilities, or board federally regulated commercial aircrafts," according to DHS.

The cards can't be used to travel across any border, whether that's Canada, Mexico, or any other international destination, according to DHS.

How do I get a Real ID? What does a Real ID look like?

All you have to do to get a Real ID is to make time to head over to your local department of motor vehicles.

Every state is different, so the documents needed to verify your identity will vary. DHS says that at minimum, you will be asked to produce your full legal name, date of birth, social security number, two proofs of address of principal residence and lawful status.

The only difference between the state-issued forms of identification you have now and the Real ID-compliant card you hope to obtain is a unique marking stamped in the right-hand corner. The mark stamped on your Real ID compliant cards depends on the state.

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COMMENTS

How soon can you travel after having a baby?
The first few weeks after giving birth are a big transitional period, full of physical and emotional postpartum recovery, unpredictable sleep schedules, breastfeeding challenges, hormonal changes, and more - adding travel to the mix may actually slow down recovery and get in the way of the groove you're trying to establish with your newborn.
How soon can I travel after birth?
Keep in mind, if you do hop a flight soon after delivery, there's a high risk for blood clots that's associated with pregnancy—and it persists for six to eight weeks postpartum. So take extra care to drink lots of water and to get up and walk around often during a long flight. Wearing special support hose to promote circulation can also help.
Postpartum Travel: How Soon Is Too Soon?
It'd be one thing if you were talking about, say, three to six months after the birth, but two to six weeks is just…cutting it way too close. (And considering that babies are notorious ignorers of due dates, you could deliver earlier or later than expecting, with both scenarios further complicating any plans for major travel.)
Traveling With a Baby Changes the Way You Vacation—And That's Okay
Not because I hadn't taken a true vacation in nearly a year, but because it was my first time traveling since giving birth to my son. I knew from the get-go that having a baby would change ...
Postpartum Timeline: What You Can Do When After Giving Birth
The postpartum period is a time of adjustment and healing. Learn more about what you can do when after giving birth, including taking a bath, driving, exercising, household work, and sex.
Road Trip After Giving Birth: Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Journey
After giving birth, it is generally recommended for most new mothers to wait one to two weeks after a vaginal delivery and three to four weeks after a c-section before embarking on travel. This timeframe allows for proper recovery and adjustment for both the mother and the baby.
Postpartum Travel: When Can You Travel Again After Giving Birth
Postpartum travel with your newborn will expose your baby to the risk of infection. The first four to eight weeks of your baby's existence require special care. Some airlines may refuse to transport infants. Even your body is more sensitive to infections after childbirth. Your body is frail and susceptible to infection.
Postpartum care: After a vaginal delivery
Many people have a period of feeling down or anxious after giving birth, sometimes called the baby blues. Symptoms include mood swings, crying spells, anxiety and trouble sleeping. These feelings often go away within two weeks. In the meantime, take good care of yourself. Share your feelings, and ask your partner, loved ones or friends for help.
Postpartum Travel: How to Travel with a Newborn
You shouldn't do anything soon after giving birth without talking to your doctor and checking if you're good to go. Lots of new moms take some time off before going anywhere, and this is especially the case if you had certain problems after giving birth and need to take care of them properly. ... A newborn is the perfect travel companion ...
Your postpartum body: What to expect weeks and months after birth
Afterpains will stop in the first week, for example, and bleeding will subside during the first month. You may have breast tenderness, night sweats, and exhaustion, and if you've had a C-section, you'll need additional recovery time. From one week to one year postpartum, here's what to expect. Medically reviewed by Cheryl Axelrod, M.D., ob-gyn.
The New Mother: Taking Care of Yourself After Birth
Here are ideas to help you get more rest: In the first few weeks, you need to let someone else take care of all responsibilities other than feeding your baby and taking care of yourself. Sleep when the baby sleeps. This may be only a few minutes of rest several times a day, but these minutes can add up.
8 postpartum symptoms and conditions to watch for after delivery
Warning signs and symptoms: Fever; excessive bleeding and clots; cramping. The lowdown: This condition is just what it sounds like—a part of the placenta, which is typically delivered in the half-hour after your baby is born—remains inside the uterus after delivery.This can happen for several reasons: the uterus did not contract enough to push the placenta from the womb, the cervix closes ...
Time to Travel After Birth
Giving birth does not mean that your traveling and adventurous life need to end. While new mothers should ensure their safety and well-being on trips, they can still travel safely in most situations. Generally, you will not have to wait long to travel after delivering a child. Most complications from childbirth occur ...
Travel During Pregnancy
to a fetus during pregnancy or birth. during sex. Zika virus infection generally causes no symptoms. When it does cause symptoms, they may be mild and include fever, rash, joint pain, and red and itchy eyes. If you are infected with Zika virus during pregnancy, your baby is at risk of serious birth defects, including microcephaly. Microcephaly ...
Postpartum complications: What you need to know
If you give birth in a hospital, your healthcare team might not find risk factors for postpartum complications before you leave the hospital. People often don't see a healthcare professional until 4 to 6 weeks after childbirth. As many as 40% of people don't have an appointment with their healthcare team at all for a checkup after giving birth.
When to stop traveling when pregnant
Most cruise ships don't allow travel after 24 weeks of pregnancy. Some cruise lines' cutoff dates vary, so verify policies before booking a cruise. As for road trips, there's no official deadline for when you need to stop traveling, but your personal comfort level (physically and emotionally) - and your doctor's advice - might help you decide.
Is It Safe to Travel Immediately After Childbirth?
4 Reasons Why You Should Not Travel Immediately After Childbirth. 1. Increased risk of infections. ... The bottom line is that rest is compulsory for a few weeks after giving birth to your baby. Unless and until there is a compelling requirement to fly with your baby, you can fly away as early as four to eight weeks after delivery. ...
10 Postpartum Symptoms Not To Ignore
"After giving birth, your blood may clot more easily, which can put you at a higher risk for developing blood clots in your veins, which can travel around your body and be very serious."
Your body after baby: The first 6 weeks
Afterbirth pains. Afterbirth pains are belly cramps you feel as your uterus (womb) shrinks back to its regular size after pregnancy. The cramps should go away in a few days. Right after you give birth, your uterus is round and hard and weighs about 2½ pounds. By about 6 weeks after birth, it weighs only 2 ounces.
Mums, Here's Your Guide on Postpartum Travel
Rest is the best way to recover after giving birth to your child. Long-distance postpartum travel causes jet lag, which can develop into a sleep disturbance. Sleep deprivation can cause irritation, depression, exhaustion, and a lower quality of life. It is critical to obtain enough rest before getting back on your feet.
Traveling with an infant: Is it safe for a newborn?
On Delta, a baby has to be more than one week old to travel. Younger infants can travel with a doctor's permission. JetBlue lowers the standard to three days old. United refuses to allow a baby younger than seven days old onboard under any circumstances. United also bans infants in incubators.
Rutgers PhD student delivers dissertation hours after giving birth
Rutgers PhD student, Tamiah Brevard-Rodriguez, gave birth to her son and then hours later defended her dissertation to a committee over Zoom.
I Had A Traumatic Birth Experience. Here's What I Wish I Had Known
The author and her son in the NICU shortly after giving birth. Advertisement Maya Jackson, the founder and executive director of Mobilizing African American Mothers through Empowerment , a pregnancy and birth services organization that Jackson said has served over 700 families since its founding in 2018, sees the medicalization of birth as a ...
Woman 'panicked' after birth, abortion trial told
A woman accused of illegally aborting her child "panicked" after giving birth naturally, a court heard. Sophie Harvey said her baby was stillborn when she gave birth in the bathroom of her home in ...
Women in the UK: share your experience of maternity care, birth trauma
We're keen to hear from women in the UK who experienced birth trauma, and about their experience of care in pregnancy and after giving birth Guardian community team Mon 13 May 2024 05.52 EDT ...
Going back to work after baby: Timelines and tips
Every experience is different, but generally, it takes around six weeks to feel relief from most postpartum symptoms after having a baby. While six weeks has long been the traditional timeline for rest and recuperation after a birth, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends ongoing postpartum care from birth to 12 weeks.
Kourtney Kardashian details her postpartum recovery plan after son
Inside Alyssa Milano's $3K-a-night suite on Cabo 'couples trip': Private pool, chef's kitchen, spa and more ... The Poosh founder slowly began going out more after giving birth in November 2023.
Lexington woman pleads guilty to homicide by child abuse after giving
She gave birth in her car during this time. Shortly after 10 p.m., she searched "how much blood can you lose after pregnancy" on her phone. Around two hours later, Geller was taken to the ...
Katie Lou Samuelson returns to the WNBA 8 months after giving birth
Samuelson gave birth to her baby girl, Aliya, in August 2023. Now, eight months later, she's back playing at the highest level.
Real ID license deadline in May 2025 means you'll need new card to fly
If you plan on flying around the country in 2025 and beyond, you might want to listen up. You have about 365 days to make your state-issued driver's license or identification "Real ID ...