Life after Birth – Post-Partum and Birth recovery
So, you’re now a mum! Either for the 1st time or you already have little treasures at home. But it takes time to heal from the birthing process. You may also have other health issues at this time.
Here are 5 common issues and some tips on how to heal them naturally:
- Perineum and C-section scar healing
Even with a non-traumatic birth experience, your perineum has done a lot of work! Often tearing here is inevitable and sometimes an episiotomy has been performed. Caesarean scars are due a major abdominal surgery and, should be treated with respect. In both cases the pain and discomfort felt may be internal, as well as external. Having ‘sitz’ baths with added lavender and tea tree essential oils can be very soothing. ‘Sitz’ baths are only a few inches deep so only your perineum is bathed. C-section scars should be kept clean and dry. Hypercal solution can be used to clean the wound and help healing.
- Breastfeeding issue no.1 – Not enough milk!
This is a common problem if you choose to breastfeed your baby. Increasing the amount of time your baby spends suckling at the nipple, stimulates milk production. Your baby needs to ‘empty’ the breast completely each time which also stimulates more milk. Barley, fennel and papaya all traditionally used to help boost milk production.
- Breastfeeding issue no.2 – Mastitis and Cracked Nipples
Breastfeeding can be a wonderful experience for mother and baby. But conditions like cracked nipples and mastitis are really painful! Getting the help of a trained breastfeeding counsellor can do wonders for the latch position of your baby. Whole, lightly bruised cabbage leaves in your bra can ease the pain of mastitis. They contain antioxidants which increase the blood flow to the area. Red cabbage is best! Calendula and Chamomile creams can be soothing for cracked nipples, as can rubbing excess breastmilk into the skin.
- Post-natal Depression (PND)
This is something which is extremely common and also very close to my heart. I suffered after both my births. It is something I choose to speak about openly as I believe the more we talk about it, the more women will seek help or feel able to show their true feelings. PND can be caused by a traumatic birth, huge hormonal changes post-partum, social isolation of having a new-born, lack of support from family/friends etc. It is not a sign of failure or that you do not love your baby. CBT, talking therapies, short term antidepressants, and counselling can all really help. You are not alone. Please seek help if you need it.
Having a new-born baby as well as recovering from the birth is a tiring and wonderful time. Homeopathy may not be able to help with the sleep deprivation (sorry!) but it can help with all the above issues! I sell Hypercal solution in a touch-free mist bottle. Email me if you need any help with these health problems.
*My Online First Aid Course is ONLY £255! Empower yourself to treat your family and friends with the 18 remedy homeopathic kit and 12hrs of content. Mother and Baby Bolt on course also available!*
