Postpartum Recovery in the First 24 Hours After Birth

The postpartum recovery in the first 24 hours after giving birth is a time of physical recovery, emotional adjustment, and bonding with your baby. Whether you’ve had a vaginal birth or a Caesarean section, your body will begin its healing process while you navigate the first moments of motherhood. Dr. Ajita Basu and her team are here to support you during this transition, ensuring you receive the best care for a healthy and comfortable recovery.

1. Postpartum Recovery as Immediate Physical Changes After Birth

Your body goes through significant changes in the first day postpartum as it begins healing.

Postpartum Recovery After a Vaginal Birth:

• Uterine contractions: Your uterus will start shrinking back to its pre-pregnancy size. These contractions, known as afterpains, may feel like period cramps, especially during breastfeeding.
• Vaginal bleeding (lochia): You’ll experience postpartum bleeding similar to a heavy period, which gradually lessens over the next few weeks.
• Perineal discomfort: If you had a vaginal tear or episiotomy, you may experience swelling and soreness in the perineal area. Ice packs and pain relief can help.
• Bladder changes: You might feel increased urgency or discomfort while urinating as your body adjusts.

Postpartum Recovery After a Caesarean Section (C-Section):

• Incision pain: You will have discomfort around the surgical incision, which will be managed with pain relief medications.
• Limited mobility: Moving around may feel difficult at first, but gentle walking is encouraged to help circulation and prevent complications.
• Post-surgery monitoring: Your medical team will check your incision, monitor for signs of infection, and ensure your pain is well-managed.

2. Postpartum Recovery as Emotional and Hormonal Changes

The sudden shift in hormones after birth can lead to a mix of emotions, from joy and excitement to feelings of exhaustion or overwhelm.

• The “baby blues”: Many new mothers experience mood swings, anxiety, or tearfulness due to hormonal fluctuations. This is normal and usually resolves within a few days.
• Skin-to-skin bonding: Holding your baby skin-to-skin helps regulate their body temperature, promotes bonding, and encourages early breastfeeding.
• Support and rest: It’s essential to have emotional support from your partner, family, or healthcare team as you adjust to motherhood.

3. Breastfeeding and Newborn Care

Breastfeeding often begins within the first hour after birth, but it may take time to establish a good latch and milk flow.

• Colostrum (first milk): Your body produces colostrum, a nutrient-rich form of milk that boosts your baby’s immunity.
• Frequent feeding: Newborns feed every 2-3 hours, and early breastfeeding helps stimulate milk production.
• Latching support: If you experience difficulties, a lactation consultant can help with positioning and latch techniques.

For mothers who choose not to breastfeed, bottle feeding with formula is a healthy alternative, and support is available to guide you through the process.

4. Rest and Self-Care to boost Postpartum Recovery

Your body needs time to recover, so rest is crucial in the first 24 hours.

• Sleep when you can: Newborns wake frequently, so try to rest between feeds.
• Stay hydrated and nourished: Eating nutrient-rich foods and drinking plenty of water supports your recovery.
• Gentle movement: If possible, take short walks to help circulation and prevent blood clots.

5. When to Seek Medical Help for Postpartum Recovery

While most postpartum symptoms are normal, seek medical attention if you experience:

• Heavy bleeding (soaking more than one pad per hour)
• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with medication
• Signs of infection (fever, redness, or swelling at the wound site)
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Severe mood changes, extreme sadness, or anxiety

Dr. Basu and her team are here to ensure you feel supported and confident during your postpartum recovery.

Caring for You Beyond Birth

The first 24 hours after birth are just the beginning of your postnatal journey. Dr. Basu provides ongoing postnatal care, helping you navigate the early days of motherhood with expert guidance and compassionate support.

Book a postnatal check-up today to ensure a smooth recovery and get the support you need.