This is a tender topic for many women: their body during the postpartum timeframe. How have you handled it?
First things first...let's talk about the BEFORE..I remember my mother telling me that once a
woman has a child, it takes her youth. I always thought that was just in connection to the fact that we have to "grow up" and take on the new process of motherhood. What I didn't consider is the change that the body physically takes on!
WHAT CAN WE EXPECT IN THE POSTPARTUM TIMEFRAME?
The postpartum period is a transformative time for a woman’s body, and many changes occur during the first year after childbirth. These changes are different from woman to woman, but here are 20 common physical, hormonal, and emotional changes that can take place. Take a second and tally where you fall in the list!
1. Uterine Involution
The uterus gradually shrinks back to its pre-pregnancy size. This process can take about six to eight weeks and may be accompanied by cramping, often referred to as "afterpains." I actually attributed this to feeling stabbing, sometime contraction-like pains. It was intense. Especially compounding it with a c-section
2. Lochia (Postpartum Bleeding)
Vaginal bleeding and discharge (lochia) occur after childbirth as the body expels the remnants of the placenta and uterine lining. This can last anywhere from a few weeks to six weeks postpartum. This is why we rely on the wrapped pads and "mom diapers" after birthing. Not to mention, continuing to feel sore!
3. Hormonal Fluctuations
Hormone levels, including estrogen and progesterone, rapidly decrease after delivery, contributing to mood swings and physical changes like breast engorgement and hair loss. You're swelling, breasts are swelling, maybe even leaking. But it was the hair loss...the literal hair loss for me! It had me considering any and all alternatives for getting my hairline back to where it was
4. Breast Changes
The breasts may become fuller, tender, and engorged as milk production ramps up. Over time, they settle into a more stable, though often altered, size and shape. Some moms mentions that they feel that their breasts "deflate" after nursing, or once they return to their previous state after childbirth
5. Breastfeeding Effects
Frequent breastfeeding can lead to sore nipples, cracked skin, or even mastitis (a breast infection). Some women may also experience a decrease in breast size once they stop breastfeeding. The struggle, for me, was the lumps in corners. And it was painful lumps!
6. Stretch Marks
Stretch marks from pregnancy may remain or fade but often become more prominent as the skin heals and tightens after birth. Enough said. I've done all the creams....paid so much money. In fact, if YOU have a suggestion, please message me!
7. Abdominal Changes
The abdominal muscles may be stretched or weakened (diastasis recti), and the belly may appear softer or "flabbier" as the body adjusts to its new form. This can last for quite some time. This is why some women resort to the use of girdles to help them "snap back". For me, I felt like I couldn't breathe...and add the recovery of a c-section...it was too much. I abandoned it right away!
8. Pelvic Floor Weakness
The pelvic floor muscles may be weakened during childbirth, leading to issues such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or sexual discomfort. I actually work with women who have ended up having serious issues with intimacy and increased pain with intercourse. I have suggested some great Pelvic Floor Therapists. But, still sex is still such an important aspect of womanhood. You CANNOT ignore this!
9. Postpartum Hair Loss
Increased shedding of hair is common in the first few months after birth due to hormonal changes. This typically resolves by the end of the first year. Be mindful to use silk scrunchies when you're tying your hair up!
10. Skin Changes
The skin may appear more radiant initially due to increased blood flow, but some women develop skin issues like acne, hyperpigmentation (e.g., "mask of pregnancy"), or melasma. I had the pregnancy mask. Being that I have darker skin, it looked really intense. Luckily it faded...but I truly feel that it took a whole darn year to do so..
11. Weight Loss and Body Composition Changes
The weight gained during pregnancy typically begins to shed in the months following childbirth, but some women may find it difficult to return to their pre-pregnancy weight or body shape. Part of this is due to fatigue. Is this you? If so, I have a remedy...
12. Vaginal Changes
The vagina may be stretched and swollen immediately after delivery. Over time, it may feel looser, but Kegel exercises and pelvic floor rehabilitation can help restore strength and tone. If you're having pain, see Point 8!
13. Menstrual Cycle Resumption
If a woman is not breastfeeding, her menstrual cycle will likely return within 6-8 weeks. Breastfeeding can delay the return of menstruation due to lactational amenorrhea (hormonal suppression). Keep in mind, this does not mean that you cannot get pregnant! Trust me! This also is when women notice the fatigue! Vitamin Injections are extremely helpful for this point....check out the options...it really is a game-changer
14. Mood Swings and Emotional Changes
Hormonal fluctuations, sleep deprivation, and the emotional adjustments of motherhood can lead to mood swings, anxiety, or postpartum depression, which can persist for several months.
15. Joint and Ligament Changes
The hormone relaxin, which helps soften ligaments during pregnancy, remains in the body for several months postpartum, leading to joint instability or discomfort, particularly in the hips, knees, and lower back. Get moving! I know it's hard, but even 20 minutes of a full body stretch can do your body some serious good.
16. Sweating and Hot Flashes
Many women experience increased sweating, especially at night, as the body works to return to its pre-pregnancy state, and hormone levels fluctuate. I noticed this for myself. It took be a long time to get back to not needing to reapply deodorant throughout the day...looking and feeling sweaty is the worse!
17. Changes in Vaginal Discharge
Increased vaginal discharge (lochia) occurs in the first few weeks post-delivery. Later, the vaginal discharge usually becomes lighter and may change in consistency.
18. Cardiovascular System Adjustments
Blood volume and pressure gradually return to normal after delivery, but some women may experience issues like postural hypotension (lowered when standing....can make you feel light-headed when standing) or elevated blood pressure in the months following birth.
19. Immune System Changes
The immune system can take a while to return to its pre-pregnancy state, and some women may be more prone to infections, colds, or other illnesses in the first few months postpartum.
20. Sleep Deprivation
Newborn care can significantly disrupt sleep patterns, leading to chronic sleep deprivation. This can have wide-ranging effects on mood, energy, cognitive function, and physical health. If the insomnia is still getting to you, you have got to consider some natural remedies that will be a gamechanger for your fatigue levels.
Like I said, we already go through so much durning this timeframe. It's complicated. But the emotional and physical snapback doesn't have to be. You have options! I'd love to support you during these options. Hang in there, Mama.
Be well.
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