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Why postpartum recovery is necessary
Improper organization of the postpartum period may lead to the following problems:
pelvic organ prolapse,
lactation disorders,
pain,
loss of tone in the pelvic floor (“intimate”) muscles,
postpartum depression.
According to statistics, 70% of divorces are associated with the birth of the first child. Responsibility, multitasking, sleepless nights, and mutual misunderstanding lead to deterioration in the relationship between partners. At the same time, calmness, help, and support from loved ones will facilitate proper bonding between mother and infant, which will subsequently have a beneficial effect on lactation.
During the postpartum period, significant changes will occur in a woman’s body that must be monitored. In particular, the following will change:
Uterine size (from enlarged to its standard size).
Amount of vaginal discharge (its abundance will initially increase).
Mammary glands: approximately three days after delivery, milk usually comes in, which may cause discomfort.
Condition of the nipples: fissures may appear. To reduce pain, specialized healing creams can be used. If this does not help, silicone nipple shields may be used.
Legs: thrombophlebitis (inflammation of the intimal layer of the venous wall) occurs very often in the postpartum period. If pain, erythema, induration, or edema of the lower extremities appear, a consultation with a phlebologist is necessary to avoid surgical intervention.
It should be noted that self-medication is not advisable. If something is concerning, it is necessary to consult a physician rather than self-prescribe medications that may significantly affect both the woman’s condition and breastfeeding.
Psycho-emotional recovery
After childbirth, a new stage begins in a woman’s life, accompanied not only by the joy of the infant’s arrival but also by challenges related to physiological and psychological changes in the body. Therefore, it is important to give due attention to psycho-emotional recovery.
Immediately after delivery, a woman may experience a range of emotions—from joy to anxiety and depression. This is related to hormonal changes as well as new duties and responsibilities toward the newborn. To avoid postpartum depression, it is necessary to properly organize the recovery process.
First and foremost, the mother should also devote time to herself. It is necessary to understand that caring for the infant is important but should not become her sole focus. The woman should find time for sleep, rest, and independent activities that bring her pleasure, such as reading, yoga, or walking in the fresh air.
It is also important to maintain social connections. A woman may communicate with relatives and friends and attend specialized classes for new mothers, where experiences can be shared and support obtained.
Some women may experience self-esteem issues after childbirth. In such cases (in agreement with a physician), physical exercise is useful to strengthen the body and increase self-confidence.
Finally, attention should be paid to proper nutrition. A woman should consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals to help restore strength and energy.
It is important to understand that the process of psycho-emotional recovery after childbirth is highly individual. Each woman may experience different emotions and feelings; therefore, it is necessary to listen to one’s body and mood and adapt to the new life situation. The main point is not to forget that self-care is no less important than caring for the child.
Body reshaping
After giving birth, women strive to return to their previous form as quickly as possible. However, the organs must first return to their anatomical positions, the uterus must involute, and lochia will persist for some time. If one begins exercising immediately, this may lead to pelvic organ prolapse. Therefore, it is necessary to refrain from the gym for an average of 2 months after delivery.
It is recommended to start with small exercises in the supine or sitting position. Calisthenics for the arms and legs may be performed. If physician clearance is available, after 2 months one may gradually begin to restore physical form, increasing the load very slowly.
The postpartum period is not the time to start a diet. Recovery at this time largely depends on nutrition. Moreover, most of the weight gained during pregnancy will “go away” easily, as it is primarily fluid retention.
Breastfeeding can become your ally in losing the excess kilograms gained during pregnancy. A higher metabolic rate in lactating mothers will help with this.
After childbirth, your abdomen will be very flaccid and lax. Its muscles have weakened over 9 months during which they were maximally stretched. Time will be required for everything to return to normal.
The initiation of physical activity to strengthen the muscles must be coordinated with a physician. If you exercised throughout pregnancy, had a normal vaginal delivery, and do not feel pain, you will likely be able to resume a program of light exercises a few days after delivery.
If you had a cesarean section, the incision fully heals within a few weeks. Therefore, it is important to be patient and refrain from fitness for the period determined by your physician. The only exercise that should be performed is slow walking. It also helps prevent thrombosis.
As soon as you receive permission to exercise again, try to find workouts specifically designed for women in the postpartum period. They should include both stretching and sets for muscle toning.
The postpartum period is a necessary period of physical and emotional recovery that a woman needs after childbirth. A year or more is the necessary minimum. According to various studies and theories, a woman may need up to two or even three years to fully recover.
for a consultation
Hormonal recovery
A woman’s body produces many different hormones during pregnancy to support gestation and then childbirth. The effects of hormones after pregnancy may influence daily activities.
For example, relaxin is a hormone secreted by the ovaries, the placenta, and even the endometrium throughout pregnancy. During the first and second trimesters, it suppresses myometrial contractions to prevent preterm labor, and at the end of pregnancy it contributes to rupture of the fetal membranes, dilation and softening of the cervix and vagina, and relaxation of the pelvic ligaments to facilitate labor.
Relaxin stretches muscles and ligaments in the body, so pregnant women may be more prone to muscle strains during physical activity, placing joints at risk. Even after delivery, relaxin remains active; thus, it may take up to five months before your body becomes “stable” again.
Prolactin is a hormone that stimulates milk production in the body; it remains present from pregnancy through lactation. In addition, it can affect behavior, metabolism, the immune system, and fluid regulation, which explains possible postpartum hormonal changes such as mood swings and fluid retention (edema) after delivery.
Oxytocin is another hormone that plays an important role in labor and lactation. During labor it stimulates uterine contractions, and during lactation it promotes milk ejection into the breast. Recent studies have shown that oxytocin is very important for social behavior. It is responsible for sexual arousal, recognition, trust, and anxiety. For this reason it is also called the “love hormone.” In addition, oxytocin is known to promote mother–infant bonding.
Although a woman’s body produces these hormones during and after pregnancy and childbirth, not all mothers experience the same emotional states.
The two major “players” during pregnancy and postpartum are estrogen and progesterone. In fact, women who have difficulties with pregnancy are often prescribed estrogen and progesterone supplements to support gestation. Specific levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy serve both fetal growth and maternal physiological changes.
Both estrogen and progesterone are secreted by the ovaries (corpus luteum) and the placenta during pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise significantly early in pregnancy. It prepares the endometrium and its blood vessels to “feed” the developing fetus and also prevents uterine contractions and preterm labor. Estrogen levels increase during pregnancy and peak before delivery.
Almost immediately after placental delivery, progesterone levels return to prepregnancy values. Postpartum estrogen levels remain elevated, leading to so-called estrogen dominance. It is entirely normal to be moody and sensitive during this period.
In the postpartum period, two types of thyroid dysfunction may occur: postpartum thyroiditis, which is characterized by transient hyperthyroidism followed by transient—or, less commonly, persistent—hypothyroidism.
Reduced thyroid activity (hypothyroidism) may cause a number of physical effects, such as:
cold intolerance,
weight gain (loss of appetite),
fatigue,
constipation,
muscle weakness,
cold, dry skin,
brittle hair,
dyspnea on exertion.
Estrogen dominance is also associated with adrenal fatigue. The adrenal glands produce hormones that help regulate bodily functions such as control of blood glucose levels and blood pressure.
What are the symptoms of hormonal imbalance? In addition to the “baby blues,” you may notice other signs:
weight gain,
fatigue,
headaches,
poor sleep quality,
irritability.
Hormonal imbalance can also affect your mood, and you may feel depressed and anxious.
How to regulate hormones after childbirth? There are many treatment options that can help restore hormonal balance.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as irritability, fatigue, mood swings, and stress, you may find relief simply by asking friends and family to help with the baby or with household chores. Even something as simple as help with cooking and cleaning can give you more time to rest and allow your body to heal.
If you need time alone, ask your partner or find someone to care for the baby while you take a bath or go for a walk outdoors. Moderate physical activity can also help balance hormones and reduce stress. Your physician may also recommend herbal or other supplements.
Symptoms of hormonal imbalance during lactation persist as long as a woman is breastfeeding. However, you can mitigate their effects by using some of the methods we have mentioned. IMPORTANT: If you notice that your symptoms are so intense that they prevent you from enjoying time with your baby, or that they do not improve within a few weeks after delivery, be sure to consult your physician.
Restoration of the menstrual cycle
When the first menstruation after childbirth begins often depends on whether the woman is breastfeeding and how frequently. In those who practice exclusive breastfeeding, menstruation generally begins later than in those who use formula or a combination of breast milk and formula.
A hormone called prolactin stimulates milk production and suppresses ovulation, and therefore menstruation does not occur. Its absence for six months or longer while breastfeeding is normal.
Conversely, in women who are not breastfeeding, the menstrual cycle may resume as early as four to eight weeks after delivery.
Vaginal recovery after childbirth
Vaginal delivery is the main cause of pelvic floor dysfunction in women, which can lead to unpleasant consequences such as urinary incontinence, loss of control over fecal continence, and even genital prolapse. To strengthen this part of the female body and prevent deterioration after childbirth, specialists recommend practicing contraction exercises during pregnancy and in the first weeks postpartum.
Strengthening techniques and exercises:
During pregnancy. At this stage, it is important to prepare the perineal tissues to avoid tears and pelvic dysfunctions in the postpartum period. Physiotherapists recommend perineal stretching and massage in the third trimester as a very effective technique. It is important to do this regularly for at least 6–8 weeks before delivery, at least five minutes per day.
After childbirth. To reduce adverse consequences, specialists advise the following measures:
Avoid abdominal exercises and strength training during the postpartum period (6–8 weeks after delivery).
Perform Kegel exercises periodically, consisting of perineal muscle contractions, to tone and reduce ligament strain.
If you suffer from constipation after childbirth, to avoid constant straining that may further damage the perineum, it is recommended to adjust the diet and, for example, add more fiber to your intake.
Complete recovery after vaginal delivery will take 6 to 8 weeks, but in some other cases it may take longer.
The physicians at Expert Clinics approach postpartum recovery in a strictly individualized manner. For each woman we offer our own, maximally gentle, path to a healthy and happy life.
Improper organization of the postpartum period may lead to the following problems:
pelvic organ prolapse,
lactation disorders,
pain,
loss of tone in the pelvic floor (“intimate”) muscles,
postpartum depression.
According to statistics, 70% of divorces are associated with the birth of the first child. Responsibility, multitasking, sleepless nights, and mutual misunderstanding lead to deterioration in the relationship between partners. At the same time, calmness, help, and support from loved ones will facilitate proper bonding between mother and infant, which will subsequently have a beneficial effect on lactation.
During the postpartum period, significant changes will occur in a woman’s body that must be monitored. In particular, the following will change:
Uterine size (from enlarged to its standard size).
Amount of vaginal discharge (its abundance will initially increase).
Mammary glands: approximately three days after delivery, milk usually comes in, which may cause discomfort.
Condition of the nipples: fissures may appear. To reduce pain, specialized healing creams can be used. If this does not help, silicone nipple shields may be used.
Legs: thrombophlebitis (inflammation of the intimal layer of the venous wall) occurs very often in the postpartum period. If pain, erythema, induration, or edema of the lower extremities appear, a consultation with a phlebologist is necessary to avoid surgical intervention.
It should be noted that self-medication is not advisable. If something is concerning, it is necessary to consult a physician rather than self-prescribe medications that may significantly affect both the woman’s condition and breastfeeding.
Psycho-emotional recovery
After childbirth, a new stage begins in a woman’s life, accompanied not only by the joy of the infant’s arrival but also by challenges related to physiological and psychological changes in the body. Therefore, it is important to give due attention to psycho-emotional recovery.
Immediately after delivery, a woman may experience a range of emotions—from joy to anxiety and depression. This is related to hormonal changes as well as new duties and responsibilities toward the newborn. To avoid postpartum depression, it is necessary to properly organize the recovery process.
First and foremost, the mother should also devote time to herself. It is necessary to understand that caring for the infant is important but should not become her sole focus. The woman should find time for sleep, rest, and independent activities that bring her pleasure, such as reading, yoga, or walking in the fresh air.
It is also important to maintain social connections. A woman may communicate with relatives and friends and attend specialized classes for new mothers, where experiences can be shared and support obtained.
Some women may experience self-esteem issues after childbirth. In such cases (in agreement with a physician), physical exercise is useful to strengthen the body and increase self-confidence.
Finally, attention should be paid to proper nutrition. A woman should consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals to help restore strength and energy.
It is important to understand that the process of psycho-emotional recovery after childbirth is highly individual. Each woman may experience different emotions and feelings; therefore, it is necessary to listen to one’s body and mood and adapt to the new life situation. The main point is not to forget that self-care is no less important than caring for the child.
Body reshaping
After giving birth, women strive to return to their previous form as quickly as possible. However, the organs must first return to their anatomical positions, the uterus must involute, and lochia will persist for some time. If one begins exercising immediately, this may lead to pelvic organ prolapse. Therefore, it is necessary to refrain from the gym for an average of 2 months after delivery.
It is recommended to start with small exercises in the supine or sitting position. Calisthenics for the arms and legs may be performed. If physician clearance is available, after 2 months one may gradually begin to restore physical form, increasing the load very slowly.
The postpartum period is not the time to start a diet. Recovery at this time largely depends on nutrition. Moreover, most of the weight gained during pregnancy will “go away” easily, as it is primarily fluid retention.
Breastfeeding can become your ally in losing the excess kilograms gained during pregnancy. A higher metabolic rate in lactating mothers will help with this.
After childbirth, your abdomen will be very flaccid and lax. Its muscles have weakened over 9 months during which they were maximally stretched. Time will be required for everything to return to normal.
The initiation of physical activity to strengthen the muscles must be coordinated with a physician. If you exercised throughout pregnancy, had a normal vaginal delivery, and do not feel pain, you will likely be able to resume a program of light exercises a few days after delivery.
If you had a cesarean section, the incision fully heals within a few weeks. Therefore, it is important to be patient and refrain from fitness for the period determined by your physician. The only exercise that should be performed is slow walking. It also helps prevent thrombosis.
As soon as you receive permission to exercise again, try to find workouts specifically designed for women in the postpartum period. They should include both stretching and sets for muscle toning.
The postpartum period is a necessary period of physical and emotional recovery that a woman needs after childbirth. A year or more is the necessary minimum. According to various studies and theories, a woman may need up to two or even three years to fully recover.
for a consultation
Hormonal recovery
A woman’s body produces many different hormones during pregnancy to support gestation and then childbirth. The effects of hormones after pregnancy may influence daily activities.
For example, relaxin is a hormone secreted by the ovaries, the placenta, and even the endometrium throughout pregnancy. During the first and second trimesters, it suppresses myometrial contractions to prevent preterm labor, and at the end of pregnancy it contributes to rupture of the fetal membranes, dilation and softening of the cervix and vagina, and relaxation of the pelvic ligaments to facilitate labor.
Relaxin stretches muscles and ligaments in the body, so pregnant women may be more prone to muscle strains during physical activity, placing joints at risk. Even after delivery, relaxin remains active; thus, it may take up to five months before your body becomes “stable” again.
Prolactin is a hormone that stimulates milk production in the body; it remains present from pregnancy through lactation. In addition, it can affect behavior, metabolism, the immune system, and fluid regulation, which explains possible postpartum hormonal changes such as mood swings and fluid retention (edema) after delivery.
Oxytocin is another hormone that plays an important role in labor and lactation. During labor it stimulates uterine contractions, and during lactation it promotes milk ejection into the breast. Recent studies have shown that oxytocin is very important for social behavior. It is responsible for sexual arousal, recognition, trust, and anxiety. For this reason it is also called the “love hormone.” In addition, oxytocin is known to promote mother–infant bonding.
Although a woman’s body produces these hormones during and after pregnancy and childbirth, not all mothers experience the same emotional states.
The two major “players” during pregnancy and postpartum are estrogen and progesterone. In fact, women who have difficulties with pregnancy are often prescribed estrogen and progesterone supplements to support gestation. Specific levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy serve both fetal growth and maternal physiological changes.
Both estrogen and progesterone are secreted by the ovaries (corpus luteum) and the placenta during pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise significantly early in pregnancy. It prepares the endometrium and its blood vessels to “feed” the developing fetus and also prevents uterine contractions and preterm labor. Estrogen levels increase during pregnancy and peak before delivery.
Almost immediately after placental delivery, progesterone levels return to prepregnancy values. Postpartum estrogen levels remain elevated, leading to so-called estrogen dominance. It is entirely normal to be moody and sensitive during this period.
In the postpartum period, two types of thyroid dysfunction may occur: postpartum thyroiditis, which is characterized by transient hyperthyroidism followed by transient—or, less commonly, persistent—hypothyroidism.
Reduced thyroid activity (hypothyroidism) may cause a number of physical effects, such as:
cold intolerance,
weight gain (loss of appetite),
fatigue,
constipation,
muscle weakness,
cold, dry skin,
brittle hair,
dyspnea on exertion.
Estrogen dominance is also associated with adrenal fatigue. The adrenal glands produce hormones that help regulate bodily functions such as control of blood glucose levels and blood pressure.
What are the symptoms of hormonal imbalance? In addition to the “baby blues,” you may notice other signs:
weight gain,
fatigue,
headaches,
poor sleep quality,
irritability.
Hormonal imbalance can also affect your mood, and you may feel depressed and anxious.
How to regulate hormones after childbirth? There are many treatment options that can help restore hormonal balance.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as irritability, fatigue, mood swings, and stress, you may find relief simply by asking friends and family to help with the baby or with household chores. Even something as simple as help with cooking and cleaning can give you more time to rest and allow your body to heal.
If you need time alone, ask your partner or find someone to care for the baby while you take a bath or go for a walk outdoors. Moderate physical activity can also help balance hormones and reduce stress. Your physician may also recommend herbal or other supplements.
Symptoms of hormonal imbalance during lactation persist as long as a woman is breastfeeding. However, you can mitigate their effects by using some of the methods we have mentioned. IMPORTANT: If you notice that your symptoms are so intense that they prevent you from enjoying time with your baby, or that they do not improve within a few weeks after delivery, be sure to consult your physician.
Restoration of the menstrual cycle
When the first menstruation after childbirth begins often depends on whether the woman is breastfeeding and how frequently. In those who practice exclusive breastfeeding, menstruation generally begins later than in those who use formula or a combination of breast milk and formula.
A hormone called prolactin stimulates milk production and suppresses ovulation, and therefore menstruation does not occur. Its absence for six months or longer while breastfeeding is normal.
Conversely, in women who are not breastfeeding, the menstrual cycle may resume as early as four to eight weeks after delivery.
Vaginal recovery after childbirth
Vaginal delivery is the main cause of pelvic floor dysfunction in women, which can lead to unpleasant consequences such as urinary incontinence, loss of control over fecal continence, and even genital prolapse. To strengthen this part of the female body and prevent deterioration after childbirth, specialists recommend practicing contraction exercises during pregnancy and in the first weeks postpartum.
Strengthening techniques and exercises:
During pregnancy. At this stage, it is important to prepare the perineal tissues to avoid tears and pelvic dysfunctions in the postpartum period. Physiotherapists recommend perineal stretching and massage in the third trimester as a very effective technique. It is important to do this regularly for at least 6–8 weeks before delivery, at least five minutes per day.
After childbirth. To reduce adverse consequences, specialists advise the following measures:
Avoid abdominal exercises and strength training during the postpartum period (6–8 weeks after delivery).
Perform Kegel exercises periodically, consisting of perineal muscle contractions, to tone and reduce ligament strain.
If you suffer from constipation after childbirth, to avoid constant straining that may further damage the perineum, it is recommended to adjust the diet and, for example, add more fiber to your intake.
Complete recovery after vaginal delivery will take 6 to 8 weeks, but in some other cases it may take longer.
The physicians at Expert Clinics approach postpartum recovery in a strictly individualized manner. For each woman we offer our own, maximally gentle, path to a healthy and happy life.
+7 (495) 154-21-44 
admin@expertclinics.ru 
Moscow, Starovolynskaya st., 12 bld. 1