Postpartum care (postpartum period) is very important for the health of the mother and the baby.
This period can be especially challenging for first-time mothers, as the mother’s body is recovering from physical
and hormonal changes and at the same time requires special care and attention for the baby.
Postnatal care for mother and baby is discussed here:
1. Taking care of the mother’s body after childbirth
After giving birth, the mother’s body experiences many changes. These changes may include pain, bleeding, hormonal changes, and the need for rest. Some important points in this regard are:
A) rest and recovery of energy
After giving birth, the mother’s body needs rest and energy recovery. Fatigue from giving birth and taking care of the baby can put pressure on the mother.
For full recovery, the mother must find a suitable time to rest and sleep.
b) Taking care of the affected areas during childbirth
• Natural delivery: If the mother had a natural delivery and an incision was made in the perineal area (between the vagina and the anus), it is important to take care of this area.
The area may experience pain, swelling, or slight bleeding.
Applying cold compresses, washing the area with lukewarm water, and applying creams or prescribed medications are helpful to relieve pain and speed up the healing process.
• Cesarean section: If the mother had a cesarean delivery, the surgical wound needs special care.
The incision site should be kept clean and dry and any pressure that could damage the wound should be avoided. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
c) Bleeding control
Postpartum bleeding (postpartum lochia) is normal and usually lasts for 4 to 6 weeks.
Bleeding may be heavy at first and then decrease. If excessive bleeding occurs (eg, with large clots or uncontrollable bleeding), the mother should see a doctor immediately.
d) Hormonal and emotional changes
After giving birth, the mother’s body quickly experiences hormonal changes. These changes can lead to mental and emotional changes.
Many mothers may experience feelings of depression, anxiety, or mood swings.
This condition is known as the “baby blues” or postpartum depression and usually lasts for a few days to a few weeks.
If these feelings persist or develop into severe depression, the mother should consult a counselor or doctor.
e) Taking care of breasts and breastfeeding
One of the challenges of mothers after giving birth is breastfeeding. To take care of the breasts and increase comfort in breastfeeding, the following points are recommended:
• Regular breastfeeding: To prevent cracked nipples and increase milk production, the mother should breastfeed the baby regularly.
• Washing and moisturizing the nipple: After each feeding, washing the nipple with warm water and using special creams can help prevent cracks and dryness.
• Wearing comfortable clothes: Using supportive and comfortable bras can prevent breast pain and discomfort.
f) return to normal physical condition
The postpartum period is the right time to start light activities such as walking. If the delivery was normal and there were no problems, the mother can gradually resume her activities.
But in case of caesarean section, you should avoid vigorous activities and lifting heavy objects for the first few weeks.
2. Mother’s psychological and emotional care
Postpartum can be a stressful time, as a mother not only has to care for her baby, but may also experience emotional and physical changes. During this period, some tips can help the mother:
A) Emotional support
Having a support network of spouse, family, friends and doctor can be very helpful in reducing stress and pressure.
Especially in the early days after giving birth, when the mother is new and sleep-deprived, having someone to help and care for the baby can make a big difference.
b) Psychological counseling and postpartum depression treatment
If the mother feels severe depression, anxiety or inability to perform daily tasks, she should consult a counselor or psychologist. Postpartum depression needs treatment and should not be ignored.
3. Baby care after birth
The basic care of the baby after birth is very important. Here are some basic baby care tips:
A) Baby feeding
Breastfeeding: Breast milk is the best nutrition for babies. Breastfeeding in the early hours after birth helps the baby benefit from the mother’s antibodies and helps his immune system.
If breastfeeding is not possible for any reason, standard formula can be substituted.
• Frequency of breastfeeding: the baby should be fed regularly at least every 2 to 3 hours.
Frequent breastfeeding helps increase milk production in the mother and meets the nutritional needs of the baby.
b) Taking care of the baby’s health
• Washing the baby: In the first days after birth, washing the baby should be done carefully. Using lukewarm water and mild soap is enough to wash the baby’s body.
• Care of the umbilical cord: In the first weeks after birth, it is important to take care of the baby’s umbilical cord. Keep it dry and clean and avoid touching it too much to avoid infection.
• Diapers and baby skin care: The baby’s skin is very sensitive, so diapers should be changed regularly and baby powder
and anti-inflammatory creams should be used to prevent burns on the baby’s feet.
c) Newborn vaccination
The baby must receive the necessary vaccines according to the national vaccination schedule.
These vaccines protect babies against dangerous diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, measles, and polio.
4. Postpartum medical consultations
The mother should visit the doctor at several stages after giving birth:
• Examination six weeks after delivery: In this visit, the doctor examines the general health of the mother, the state of the affected areas, mental and emotional state,
as well as planning for pregnancy prevention and returning to physical activities.
• Counseling and follow-up for breastfeeding: If the mother has problems breastfeeding, counseling with a lactation consultant or doctor can be useful.
• Mental health care: If the mother suffers from postpartum depression, she needs psychological treatment and counseling.
conclusion
Postpartum care is necessary to maintain the physical and mental health of the mother and baby.
This period requires special attention because of the hormonal, physical and psychological changes that occur in the mother.
By following up with regular medical care, emotional support, and paying attention to health and nutrition,
the problems and challenges of this period can be minimized and the mother and baby can be cared for effectively.
During this period, the importance of social and psychological support for the mother is very high,
because many mothers face physical and emotional changes after childbirth, which can be stressful.
Here are some other tips for mother and baby care:
5. Returning to daily activities and sports
After giving birth, the return to daily activities should be done gradually. This helps the mother’s body return to its normal state.
Here are some important tips for getting back into activities and sports:
A) Starting light activities
At first, the mother should start light activities like walking. This helps to strengthen the body, improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
Also, walking helps to relieve depression and postpartum stress.
b) Postpartum rehabilitation exercises
Rehabilitation exercises such as Kegel exercises (to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles),
yoga or breathing exercises can be useful for returning the muscles to their original state and improving the mother’s physical condition.
Of course, these exercises should be done under the supervision of a doctor and heavy activities should be avoided for the first six weeks.
c) Taking care of joints and muscles
During pregnancy, the body undergoes many changes that put pressure on the joints and muscles.
After giving birth, the mother may experience pain and muscle cramps in the lower back or pelvis. Using treatment methods such as physiotherapy can help reduce these pains.
6. Taking care of sexual relations after childbirth
After giving birth, many mothers may be concerned about returning to sexual activity.
This period may be associated with pain, vaginal dryness or psychological concerns, especially for mothers who have had a natural delivery. Here are some tips for getting back into sex:
A) See a doctor
Before returning to sexual activity, the mother should wait at least six weeks after giving birth for the doctor to check that the body has recovered sufficiently.
In this session, the doctor may examine the physical condition of the genital area and resolve any possible problems.
b) Peace and communication with the partner
Emotional support from a partner is important for returning to sexual relationships. Communicating openly and honestly about feelings, concerns, and needs can help reduce stress.
If the mother has vaginal dryness or pain, using lubricants can be helpful.
c) Attention to hormonal changes
Hormonal changes after childbirth can affect sexual desire and comfort in sexual relations.
Some mothers may experience decreased libido or physical problems such as vaginal dryness, which usually resolve with time.
7. Taking care of the mother’s mental health
Postpartum depression or “baby blues” is a common issue that many mothers face after giving birth.
These conditions are usually caused by hormonal changes and psychological pressure caused by new responsibilities. To take care of the mother’s mental health, the following tips are useful:
A) Emotional support
Getting support from family, friends and partner is very important. Having a support network to help the mother feel she is not alone can help reduce stress and anxiety.
b) Depression counseling and treatment
If the mother is experiencing symptoms of severe depression or anxiety, psychological counseling or medication under the supervision of a doctor can be effective.
Postpartum depression treatment can help the mother return to a normal state and have a healthy emotional connection with the baby.
c) Relaxation and meditation exercises
Relaxation exercises, yoga or meditation can help reduce stress and improve the mother’s mental state. These exercises help mothers to adapt to their new changes and feel more relaxed.
8. Preventive care for subsequent pregnancies
If the mother intends to get pregnant again in the future, she should prepare for future pregnancies in terms of physical and mental health. Some preventive measures include:
A) Pre-pregnancy counseling
If the mother is thinking of becoming pregnant again, medical advice is very important for proper pregnancy planning.
The doctor may prescribe essential vitamins and supplements to check your general health status and provide recommendations for health management in future pregnancies.
b) Attention to the interval between pregnancies
Researchers recommend that there be an interval of 18 to 24 months between two pregnancies so that the mother’s body can completely return to its original state
and reduce the possible risks for the next pregnancy.
conclusion
Postpartum care is very important for the physical and mental health of the mother and baby.
This period, especially in the first weeks, requires careful attention and care due to physical, hormonal and psychological pressures.
By receiving emotional support, medical advice and attention to physical and mental health,
the mother can successfully pass this period and safely continue her new responsibilities with her new baby.
9. Taking care of the baby’s health after birth
Taking care of the baby in the first months after birth is very important to ensure his growth and health.
These cares include nutrition, hygiene, growth and disease prevention. The important points in caring for the baby after birth are:
A) Baby feeding
• Breast milk: Breast milk is the best choice for feeding a baby. Breast milk provides all the nutrients and antibodies that the baby needs to strengthen its immune system.
If the mother is unable to breastfeed, using suitable milk powders based on the doctor’s recommendation can be a suitable option.
• Frequency of breastfeeding: the baby should be transferred to the mother’s breast or feeding bottle every 2 to 3 hours, although this interval may be different for different babies.
Some babies may sleep longer than this and need less feeding, while others may need more nursing.
• Early initiation of breastfeeding: initiation of breastfeeding in the early hours after birth helps the baby to benefit from the mother’s antibodies and start the feeding process naturally.
b) diapers and baby hygiene
Changing diapers: The baby’s diapers should be changed regularly.
This not only helps the baby feel comfortable and well, but also prevents problems such as burns on the baby’s feet.
It is recommended to change the baby’s diaper every 2 to 3 hours or if the diaper is wet or dirty.
Washing the baby’s skin: The baby’s skin is very sensitive and should be washed regularly. Use mild and unscented soaps to avoid skin irritation.
Also, if necessary, anti-inflammatory creams or special ointments should be used to prevent burns and skin inflammations.
c) Care of the umbilical cord
• Keeping the umbilical cord clean: Until the baby’s umbilical cord has completely dried and separated from the body
(usually 1-2 weeks after birth), contact with water or excessive moisture should be avoided.
The umbilical cord area should be kept dry and clean. Using dry cotton is enough to clean the area.
• See a doctor in case of bleeding: If bleeding or signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or foul-smelling discharge are observed in the umbilical cord area,
you should see a doctor immediately.
d) Vaccines and preventive care
• Vaccines: The baby must receive the required vaccines according to the national vaccination program of his country.
These vaccines protect babies against dangerous diseases such as measles, tetanus, diphtheria, hepatitis B and polio.
Mothers should pay attention to receive all the recommended vaccines according to the medical schedule.
• Visiting the doctor: Usually, the baby should visit the doctor in the first weeks and months after birth to check its growth and development.
These examinations include checking the weight, height, and general condition of the baby.
e) Taking care of the baby’s sleep
• Babies and sleep: Babies usually sleep between 14 and 17 hours a day. But the quality of their sleep is more important than its duration.
The baby should sleep in a safe environment without extra objects such as pillows or soft blankets that can cause suffocation.
• Safe sleeping method: It is recommended that the baby sleeps on his back in the early months to avoid the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Also, the baby’s bed should contain a firm mattress without soft edges.
10. Taking care of the mother-baby relationship
One of the important aspects of mother and baby care in the postpartum period is to create emotional connection and a deep bond between mother and baby.
This emotional connection is not only necessary for the growth and development of the baby, but also has a positive effect on the mental and emotional health of the mother.
A) Skin contact with the baby (Bonding)
Skin-to-skin contact means placing the baby directly on the mother’s breast immediately after birth.
This contact strengthens the emotional bond between mother and baby, and on the other hand,
it helps the baby to relax and benefit from physiological benefits such as regulating body temperature.
• Breastfeeding and emotional bonding: Breastfeeding naturally increases the secretion of love and bonding hormones, such as oxytocin, in the mother’s body,
which strengthens the mother’s emotional feelings towards the baby.
• Talking to the baby: Even in the first months of life, talking to the baby and making eye contact strengthens the emotional connection. This also helps the baby’s cognitive development.
b) Responding to the baby’s needs
• Responding to the baby’s cry: The baby’s cry is one of his ways to communicate with the environment and announce his needs.
The mother must respond to the baby’s needs, such as hunger, tiredness, or the need to change diapers.
This creates a sense of security and trust in the baby and makes the baby trust the mother over time.
Touch communication: caressing and hugging the baby not only makes him feel safe, but also improves the brain and social development of the baby.
11. Taking care of the mother’s mental health in the long term
Taking care of the mother’s mental health after childbirth is not limited to the first weeks.
It is essential for mothers to pay attention to their mental health during the first years of the baby’s life, because there are many pressures on them during this period.
A) Prevention of postpartum depression
Postpartum depression or “baby blues” can occur in many mothers. This condition is usually caused by hormonal changes, anxiety related to caring for a baby, or lack of sleep.
In case of more severe symptoms such as feelings of hopelessness, anxiety or inability to do daily tasks, the mother should see a doctor.
• Sufficient rest and sleep: having sufficient sleep and regular rest helps the mother to reduce the psychological stress caused by lack of sleep.
• Social support: having emotional and social support from family and friends can help the mother in reducing anxiety and psychological pressure.
b) Refer to a psychological counselor
In case of any mental or emotional problems, the mother should use professional help.
Psychological counseling can help mothers manage their emotions and reduce stress and psychological pressure.
conclusion
Postnatal care is vital for the physical, mental and emotional health of the mother and baby in the first years of the baby’s life.
These cares include proper nutrition, adequate sleep, health care, vaccination, and maintaining positive emotional relationships.
Mothers who receive emotional support, medical care, and supportive resources can navigate this time with greater peace and health.