The period right after childbirth called the Puerperium is also popularly known as resguardo. It lasts around 6 to 8 weeks, and only ends when menstruation returns. During this period, the postpartum woman’s body goes through several changes, requiring some essential care for a good recovery.
Your diet should be as balanced and varied as possible, drink plenty of fluids and eat everything. Although there are foods that should be avoided such as creamy foods, tobacco, alcoholic and carbonated drinks.
Hygiene should be habitual, with normal baths (preferably spraying). Wash the nipples before and after feedings, massage the breasts to stimulate milk production, press the areola and perform circular movements, helping the baby to have better suction in addition to preventing cracks and fissures during breastfeeding. In case of pain in the breast area due to a large amount of milk, it is recommended that you express some of it. Wear a firm, well-fitting bra. You should also sunbathe daily.
After giving birth, the uterus continues to contract, which prevents excessive bleeding. Some women experience pain or cramps that can be intense during breastfeeding. Abdominal pain should decrease day by day, being perfectly controlled by using painkillers recommended by the obstetrician, when necessary.
Advise the postpartum woman to carry out normal household chores, avoiding, however, physical exertion: frequently going up and down stairs, standing for long periods. Exercises such as walking, swimming and walking are important, they keep your heart and lungs in good shape and give you more energy.
Regarding sexual activity, it is recommended after 45 days or when the doctor advises, due to the changes that the body will be going through.
Postpartum is a very delicate period, but very rich in learning. It is common that, when assuming a new identity, a woman feels insecure about the possibilities of raising her child, about the success of breastfeeding and about the physical changes she is going through. Changes occur in her routine and in her other activities, making it often difficult for the mother to juggle all these tasks.