Everything you need to know about your body postpartum

From Growing to Healing

During your 40-ish week long pregnancy you have experienced many physical, emotional and life changes. No doubt, you have been glued to your phone apps and computer seeking information on the size and development of your little one from “kidney bean” to full-term baby. It is important to keep up that same level of knowledge not just in regards to caring for your new baby but for the healing journey you are about to embark on postpartum.

Isn’t it just 6 weeks?

Although some care providers will see you sooner your, it is likely your next visit with your Ob/Gyn will not occur until 6 weeks postpartum but that does not mean nothing happens between hospital discharge and that that visit nor does it mean that the postpartum visit is the mark of “healed”. You experienced 40-ish weeks of drastic changes in your body, the marathon of childbirth and it very well may take a similar time for you to feel like you have returned to a pre-pregnant state. This brochure is a summary of “normal” changes and warnings for postpartum and only a starting place for your understanding of what to expect.

Postpartum as a Journey

If you can think of the healing journey in the same way that you looked at the journey of pregnancy you will be in a positive mindset to handle the ups and downs of this important physical, mental and emotional transition. There is no “bouncing back” or quick fix. Your health, especially at this critical and vulnerable time must be treated carefully, not just for short term benefits but long term as well. Take great care of yourself, mama.