What NOT To Do After Giving Birth

So, after going through the rollercoaster ride of childbirth, I realized there are some things they don’t exactly tell you about postpartum recovery. It’s like, you’ve just welcomed this amazing little human into the world, but your body needs some serious TLC too. Trust me, I’ve been there, and I’ve learned a thing or two about what NOT to do after giving birth. This blog post is all about sharing those insights so you can avoid the mistakes that can make your recovery tougher than it needs to be.

First off, let’s talk about the basics. Your body just went through something major, right? So, it’s super important to give it the time and care it needs to heal properly. I remember feeling like I could do anything after giving birth, but reality hit hard. Here’s the scoop on what you should avoid doing during those precious weeks post-birth. It’s not about being super strict; it’s about making sure you heal up so you can enjoy those sweet baby snuggles to the fullest.

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26 Things to Avoid After Giving Birth (at Least for the First Few Weeks)

Remember, I am NOT a doctor. This is just me sharing what I’ve learned from my own experiences. It’s all about what worked (and didn’t work) for me after having my little one. Always, always talk to your doctor about anything that’s on your mind postpartum. They’re the real pros who can give you the personalized advice and guidance you need for your unique situation. Your health and recovery are super important, so let’s make sure you’ve got the best support possible!

1. Don’t Lift Heavy Stuff

Your body is still healing, especially if you had a C-section or tears. I made the mistake of trying to move a heavy box and ended up with intense pain in my abdomen. If you experience sudden pain, bleeding, or a bulging sensation near your incision or perineal area, it could be a sign that you’ve overexerted yourself.

2. No Tampons

Using tampons too soon after childbirth can increase the risk of infection and interfere with the healing process. I tried using one thinking it would be easier, but it just made things more uncomfortable and led to increased bleeding and irritation.

3. Avoid Straining

Using tampons too soon after childbirth can introduce bacteria into your healing vaginal tissues, increasing the risk of infection. This can lead to complications such as delayed healing, increased postpartum bleeding, or even more serious infections like endometritis. Using pads instead allows for better airflow and reduces the risk of disrupting the natural healing process of your vaginal and perineal tissues.

4. Don’t Go to the Gym

Intense workouts too soon after childbirth can strain your pelvic floor muscles, which are crucial for bladder and bowel control. Excessive strain can lead to urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or exacerbate existing pelvic floor issues. It’s recommended to start with gentle exercises like walking or postnatal yoga and gradually increase intensity as your body heals and strengthens.

5. Don’t Skip Meals

Your body needs adequate nutrition to recover from childbirth and support breastfeeding. Skipping meals can lead to low energy levels, dizziness, headaches, and even mood swings. It’s important to eat balanced meals and snacks throughout the day, focusing on nutrient-dense foods that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and calories needed for healing and milk production.

6. Don’t Forget to Rest

Sleep deprivation can impair your body’s ability to heal and recover from childbirth. Lack of adequate rest can lead to increased stress, mood swings, and difficulty coping with the physical and emotional demands of caring for a newborn. It’s essential to prioritize rest and sleep whenever possible, seeking support from family members or partners to allow for sufficient recovery time.

7. Don’t Wear Tight Clothes

Wearing tight clothing, especially around the abdomen and breasts, can restrict blood flow and lymphatic drainage. This restriction can lead to increased swelling, discomfort, and even contribute to clogged milk ducts or mastitis if breastfeeding. Opting for loose, comfortable clothing allows for better circulation and reduces the risk of developing complications that could prolong your postpartum recovery.

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8. No Strenuous Cleaning

Engaging in rigorous cleaning activities, such as heavy lifting or repetitive bending, can strain your abdominal muscles and pelvic floor. This strain may exacerbate postpartum pain, delay healing, or lead to increased bleeding. It’s important to prioritize light cleaning tasks and delegate heavier chores to others to allow your body the time and rest it needs to recover fully.

9. Don’t Rush into Birth Control

Initiating hormonal birth control methods too soon after childbirth can disrupt your body’s natural hormone balance and affect breastfeeding. This disruption may lead to irregular bleeding, decreased milk supply, or other hormonal imbalances that impact your overall well-being. It’s advisable to discuss contraceptive options with your healthcare provider and choose a method that aligns with your postpartum health goals and breastfeeding plans.

10. Don’t Get into Intense Diets

Extreme dieting or restrictive eating habits can deprive your body of essential nutrients needed for healing and breastfeeding. This deprivation may lead to fatigue, dizziness, or even compromise your milk supply. It’s important to focus on balanced nutrition and listen to your body’s hunger cues to support optimal postpartum recovery and ensure adequate energy levels for caring for your newborn.

11. Don’t Sit for too Long

Prolonged sitting can increase pressure on healing perineal tissues and pelvic floor muscles, leading to discomfort, swelling, or exacerbation of hemorrhoids. This pressure may also impede blood circulation and delay healing from episiotomy or tear repairs. It’s advisable to take breaks from sitting regularly, perform gentle pelvic floor exercises, and use supportive cushions to alleviate pressure and promote recovery.

12. Don’t Skip Perineal Care

Proper care of the perineal area is essential for preventing infection, promoting healing, and reducing discomfort postpartum. Neglecting perineal hygiene or using harsh cleansing products can irritate sensitive tissues and increase the risk of complications such as infections or delayed wound healing. It’s recommended to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for perineal care, including gentle cleansing with warm water and using recommended topical treatments as needed.

13. Don’t Have Sex

Resuming sexual activity too soon after childbirth can cause discomfort, pain, or even injury, particularly if you have stitches or tears that haven’t fully healed. This discomfort may also increase the risk of infection or delay your body’s healing process. It’s important to wait until you feel physically and emotionally ready, communicate openly with your partner, and consider using lubrication to enhance comfort and reduce friction during intercourse.

14. Don’t Go Swimming

Swimming too soon after childbirth, especially in pools or natural bodies of water, can increase the risk of infection in healing vaginal or perineal tissues. Water in pools and lakes may contain bacteria that can enter your body and cause complications such as urinary tract infections or postpartum infections.

Additionally, swimming can put strain on your still-healing pelvic floor muscles and increase the risk of discomfort or pelvic organ prolapse. It’s advisable to wait until your healthcare provider gives you the green light to resume swimming, typically after your postpartum check-up, to ensure your body has had enough time to heal properly.

15. Don’t Skip Drinking Water

Staying hydrated is crucial for postpartum recovery, breastfeeding, and overall health. Dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and negatively impact milk production. It’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re breastfeeding, to replenish fluids lost during childbirth and support your body’s healing processes.

16. Avoid DIY Repairs

17. Don’t Overbook Yourself

Overcommitting to activities or social engagements can increase stress levels, hinder restorative sleep, and delay your body’s healing process. Exhaustion and overwhelm can also impact your ability to bond with your newborn and cope with the physical and emotional demands of early motherhood. It’s important to prioritize self-care, set realistic expectations, and delegate tasks to support your recovery and adjustment to your new role as a mother.

18. Don’t be Around Negative Energy

Surrounding yourself with negativity or stressful situations can increase anxiety levels, disrupt sleep patterns, and hinder emotional well-being during the postpartum period. Chronic stress may also impact your immune system, delay healing, or exacerbate postpartum mood disorders. It’s important to cultivate a supportive environment, seek positive social interactions, and practice relaxation techniques to promote emotional resilience and overall wellness.

19. Don’t Assume You Can’t Get Pregnant

While breastfeeding can delay the return of ovulation and menstruation for some women, it’s not a reliable form of birth control. Ovulation can occur before you have your first postpartum period, increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy if you’re sexually active. It’s important to discuss contraceptive options with your healthcare provider and choose a method that aligns with your postpartum health goals and breastfeeding plans. Assuming you can’t get pregnant may lead to unexpected pregnancies and potential challenges in managing your postpartum recovery and caring for a newborn.

20. Don’t Stop Taking Prenatals

Prenatal vitamins are important even after childbirth because they help replenish essential nutrients that may still be needed for your recovery and breastfeeding. These vitamins, such as folic acid and iron, support your overall health and can aid in replenishing nutrient stores depleted during pregnancy and childbirth. Continuing to take prenatal vitamins can also support your body as it adjusts to postpartum changes and the demands of breastfeeding, ensuring you maintain optimal health for yourself and your baby. Always consult with your healthcare provider about the appropriate supplements for your postpartum needs.

21. Don’t Give Up on Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding provides numerous benefits for both you and your baby, including optimal nutrition, immune support, and bonding. I know it can be hard, it can take time for both you and your baby to adjust to breastfeeding, and challenges such as latch issues or discomfort are common early on. But it’s so important that you keep going.

Seeking support from lactation consultants or breastfeeding support groups can often resolve these issues. Continuing to breastfeed also helps stimulate milk production and maintain a strong bond with your baby. It’s also going to help you lose the baby weight faster. If you’re facing difficulties, reaching out to a lactation consultant or healthcare provider can provide guidance and support to help you successfully breastfeed your baby.

22. Don’t Ignore Signs that You Need To See a Doctor

After giving birth, it’s crucial to pay attention to any unusual symptoms or signs that could indicate complications. These may include excessive bleeding, severe pain, fever, or symptoms like difficulty breathing or chest pain. Ignoring these signs could delay necessary medical treatment and potentially worsen your condition. Promptly contacting your healthcare provider allows for timely assessment and appropriate management of any postpartum complications, ensuring your continued health and recovery. Always trust your instincts and seek medical attention if you have concerns about your postpartum health.

23. Don’t Try to Lose Baby Weight Right Away

Your body needs time to recover after childbirth, and focusing on rapid weight loss can hinder this process. Trying to lose weight too quickly can also affect your energy levels, milk supply if you’re breastfeeding, and overall well-being. It’s important to prioritize nutritious eating, gentle exercise, and giving yourself grace during this postpartum period. Your body underwent significant changes during pregnancy, and allowing it time to heal and adjust is crucial for your long-term health. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any weight loss regimen to ensure it’s safe for your postpartum recovery.

24. Don’t Compare Your Postpartum Body to Others

Every woman’s postpartum journey is unique, and comparing yourself to others can lead to unrealistic expectations and unnecessary stress. Your body has undergone a miraculous transformation to bring new life into the world, and it’s important to embrace and appreciate its journey. Focus on self-care, nurturing your body, and allowing it the time it needs to recover and adjust. Celebrate your own progress and achievements rather than comparing yourself to external standards or others’ experiences. Remember, your body’s recovery timeline is yours alone, and it’s okay to prioritize your well-being over external comparisons.

25. Don’t Skip Postpartum Check-Ups

Postpartum check-ups are essential for monitoring your recovery, addressing any concerns, and ensuring your overall health. Skipping these appointments can delay necessary medical interventions and preventive care, potentially compromising your recovery.

26. Don’t Avoid Asking for Help

Adjusting to life with a newborn can be challenging. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, or professionals if you need assistance with household tasks, childcare, or emotional support. Accepting help can alleviate stress and allow you to focus on your recovery and bonding with your baby.