The morning of April 23rd, 2018, Kate Middleton gave birth to a healthy 8-pound baby boy and the world rejoiced. Kate Middleton had been the talk of the town ever since the news of her pregnancy broke. From discussing her maternity fashion to her organic diet, there has been so much speculation about the expectant mother. But one thing that caused a stir everywhere was Kate’s flawless public appearance in just about seven hours from her delivery.
Kate was seen strolling out of the hospital with a newborn baby in her arms waving at the media looking all decked up. Not that we are getting cynical but most of the moms we know could barely walk seven hours after giving birth. But there’s Kate, showing off her new baby in a stunning red dress, looking flawless as always.
While we are certainly impressed with the endurance and physical strength that she showcased. The truth, of course, remains that the royal method of giving birth is not that different to the way the rest of us do it. And we know how daunting childbirth actually is for any woman and the time after delivery can just be so much more painful than the rest of the things put together.
Known as the postpartum period, the time after delivery is one of the most essential phases in a woman’s life. The postpartum period lasts six to eight weeks, beginning right after the baby is born. During this stage, your body undergoes several changes physically and emotionally. It develops its own requirements which need to be fulfilled in order to return to a normal lifestyle. Postpartum care involves getting proper rest, nutrition, and vaginal care.
Getting Enough Rest
Giving birth can be quite overwhelming. Rest is crucial for new mothers to rebuild their strength. Make sure you take rest whenever you can. Sleep when your baby sleeps, this may be only a few minutes of rest several times a day, but these minutes can add up. Focus on your health first. Only a healthy mother can nurture a healthy baby. Forget about the chores. Do not try to be a perfectionist. This is not the time when your house is going to be perfect. Another thing you can do is have your baby’s bed near yours for feedings at night. It saves steps and energy.
Eat Right
In addition to rest, all mothers need to maintain a healthy diet to promote healing and recovery. Your body has undergone many changes during pregnancy, as well as with the birth of the baby. Besides, your body is now nourishing two bodies, you are breastfeeding. Eat healthy meals every day. Include grains, fruits, proteins, dairy, vegetables and just about everything on your plate. Taking care of the nutritional intake needs to take priority over and above everything else. You need to heal and recover from pregnancy and childbirth, and eating the right food can help!
Vaginal Care
New mothers should make vaginal care an essential part of their postpartum care. While it is normal to experience vaginal bleeding, discharge or soreness, there is still no reason for you to take it for granted. It is important to keep your perineum very clean. This is the area between the vagina and rectum. Continue to do perineal care, as advised by your healthcare provider, until you see your healthcare provider at your first check-up. Avoid using tampons for the first six weeks, as they can lead to infection. Use sanitary pads instead. Abstain from sexual intercourse for four to six weeks after delivery so that your vagina has proper time to heal.
Staying healthy during the postpartum period is as important as staying healthy during pregnancy. Stay on top of all of your healthcare appointments and follow your doctor’s instructions for the health and safety of you and your baby. Don’t pile any pressure on your head to be or look perfect. Don’t be anxious to lose those extra kilos. Don’t forget to take care of yourself!