To explore this topic and equip new mothers with practical knowledge, we speak with Aleksandra Księżopolska, a specialist in obstetrics and gynecology who recently became a mother herself, about the physiology, emotions, and warning signs of postpartum.
The Postpartum Body: The Great Regeneration
The postpartum period is a time of intense work as the body returns to its pre-pregnancy state. This process requires patience and self-compassion. The most important physiological changes a woman experiences include:- Uterine contraction: The enormous postpartum uterus must return to its original size. This process manifests itself as painful but necessary contractions, which can be felt especially during breastfeeding.
- Cleansing – postpartum excretions: The body eliminates remnants of the mucous membrane, which manifests as bleeding. "At first, this bleeding is very intense, bright red, and over time, it changes color and intensity, becoming increasingly scanty" – this is a natural process that can last up to several weeks.
- Wound healing: Regardless of whether the birth was vaginal or by cesarean section, the body needs time to regenerate. Both the wound from a potential episiotomy and the scar from the surgery require special care and hygiene.
- Lactation start: The breasts begin producing milk. In the first few days, a surge of milk occurs, which can cause swelling and tenderness. This is also a time for learning how to properly latch the baby and and learning to feed together
- Hormonal storm: As Aleksandra Księżopolska explains, "there's a drop in estrogen and progesterone, but oxytocin and prolactin increase. There's a hormonal rollercoaster." These fluctuations are largely responsible for mood swings.
Red flags: when should you consult a doctor?
While many postpartum discomforts are normal, there are symptoms that absolutely shouldn't be ignored. As our expert emphasizes, immediate medical attention (often in the emergency room) is required for:
- Sudden, heavy bleeding: If bleeding suddenly begins or becomes significantly heavier than before.
- Unpleasant-smelling vaginal discharge: This may indicate a developing infection.
- High fever: This is an important red flag that may indicate inflammation (e.g., in the uterus, breasts, or wounds).
- Wound healing problems: Severe redness, purulent discharge, loosening of stitches, or increasing pain – both in the case of a perineal wound and a cesarean section scar.
- Symptoms of thrombosis: Swelling, redness, pain, and increased temperature in one leg (especially the calf), which is clearly different from the other leg.
- Problems with urination or bowel movements: Pain, burning, or urinary or fecal incontinence are signs worth consulting a doctor.
Emotional rollercoaster: From baby blues to depression
The postpartum period is also a huge psychological challenge. "One moment, a woman is joyful because she has welcomed her child into the world, and the next, terrified because it's a completely new role and responsibility," explains our interviewee.
About 80% of women experience the so-called baby blues – a temporary state of low mood, tearfulness, irritability, and a feeling of being overwhelmed. This is a normal reaction to hormonal changes, fatigue, and a new life situation. However, if these symptoms don't subside after about two weeks, or even worsen, it may indicate postpartum depression, which is a condition that requires professional help from a psychiatrist or psychologist. Don't be afraid to talk about it and seek support!
Return to intimacy: body and mind must be ready
The question of returning to intercourse after childbirth is very individual. From a medical perspective, abstinence is recommended until a follow-up visit 6-8 weeks after giving birth, when the doctor confirms that everything has healed properly. However, mental readiness is equally important. Fatigue, pain, and changes in the body can all affect libido. Open communication with your partner, patience, and mutual understanding are key. It's also worth remembering that hormonal changes can cause vaginal dryness, so using lubricating gels is highly recommended.
Support – the key to a peaceful postpartum period
"Support from loved ones is very important," emphasizes the expert. A new mother, often sore and exhausted, needs help not only with the baby but also with everyday tasks. She needs the constant support of her partner, family, friends, and other mothers – this is the foundation of a peaceful postpartum period. Don't be afraid to ask for help and clearly communicate your needs or specific forms of assistance, such as a walk with the baby or time just for mom.
A plea to mothers: be kind to yourself and ask for help.
Dear mothers, the postpartum period is a time when you must take special care of yourself.
- Give yourself time to recover: Don't expect to get back into shape immediately. Your body has put in a tremendous effort and needs time.
- Don't ignore warning signs: If anything about your health worries you, consult your doctor or midwife.
- Ask for and accept support: This is not a sign of weakness, but of wisdom. Let loved ones help you.
- Talk about emotions: Talk about how you feel. If your low mood persists, seek professional help.
- Remember to schedule a checkup: See your gynecologist 6-8 weeks after giving birth, and consider seeing a urogynecological physiotherapist, who is crucial to your return to full fitness.
Postpartum isn't a race. It's a marathon, and self-care is paramount so you can fully care for your baby and enjoy motherhood.
The article is based on a conversation with Aleksandra Księżopolska, a specialist in obstetrics and gynecology, conducted as part of the Healthy Kids CLUUb.
