Bringing your new addition home, for the first time…
When Mummy and Baby are healthy you will be on your way home, in preparation there are a few things that you should know about your body that you may not know already.
After Birth, you may experience:
After Birth Pains
Your uterus is contracting back to it’s “Pre-baby body” size. These abdominal pains may feel like labour contractions or mild to moderate period pains. These abdominal pains are commonly experienced in women who have given birth before, more so than those who are giving birth for the first time.
I personally experienced these pain for a few days after my second birth – It felt like labour contractions all over again. My obstetrician recommended some pain relief.
Bleeding
Sadly if you love swimming or give birth in summer, after birth you won’t be able to swim until the bleeding stops.
After birth you may experience some bleeding called “lochia”, which is similar to a heavy period with bright red bleeding, which can last up to 6 weeks. The amount of blood will reduce and change to a reddish-brown colour.
Sleep deprivation combined with 24/7 baby care, sometimes equates to parents forgetting about themselves. When going out I pack everything for my baby like nappies, wipes and a change of clothes but I forget to look after my needs.
You may like to prepare spare Maternity pads and undies for yourself when you are going out, especially if you are going out to socialise or exercise.
Parents – A change of clothes helps, if baby accidentally messes your clothes.
Golden Milk or “Liquid Gold”
Our Bodies are incredible.
“Colostrum” is full of nutrients and anti-bodies, it is the first yellow-coloured milk your mammary glands in your breasts produce for your baby.
Dr. Meeks, a Professor from Florida State University College of Medicine says “Colostrum contains just what a baby needs in the right amounts—it’s low in sugar but high in protein, and much of that is in the form of immune factors, such as secretory immunoglobulin A, which is designed to line the baby’s intestine and protect it from bacteria and viruses that can cause infection.”
Breast Feeding
What I loved the most about feeding was the convenience of Warm milk ready to order 24/7. It made going out and travelling favourable, not needing to worry about bottles, formula and warming mechanisms.
However with baby number 1, we were both learning the art of attachment and sometimes it meant I would have very sore nipples. I almost gave up after 6 weeks, but I persevered and it was worth it. I tried nipple shields, but baby preferred skin to skin contact so I used refrigerated “Hydrogel Breasts Discs” after feeding which offered great relief.
Breastfeeding Helpline: 1800 686 268
Blue Book
In Australia, after birth the hospital will give you a ‘Parent Pack’ which includes a form to register your baby’s name.
You will also receive your very own Infant Health Record book. In NSW this is a ‘Blue Book’ which you can record all health details for your baby as it grows up. The Blue Book has valuable information about your Child’s health and development. You can seek more information about milestone monitoring tools here: www.health.nsw.gov.au/kidsfamilies/MCFhealth/Pages/learn-the-signs.aspx
To Speak to a Nurse, call Health direct 1800 022 222 . www.healthdirect.gov.au
– Reference:
www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au
www.thewomens.org.au
www.parents.com
www.breastfeeding.asn.au
www.health.nsw.gov.au
www.healthdirect.gov.au
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