Post Birth Recovery – Life after Birth – Post-Partum
Now you’re a mum! It’s time to focus on your post birth recovery. Either for the 1st time or you already have little ones at home. But it takes time to heal from the birthing process.
Here are five common post-birth recovery issues and some tips on how to heal them naturally:
1. 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 unavoidable and sometimes an episiotomy (cut) has been performed. Caesarean wounds are due a major abdominal surgery and, should be treated with respect. In both cases the pain and discomfort felt may be inside and outside. Having ‘sitz’ baths with added lavender and tea tree essential oils can be very soothing. ‘Sitz’ baths are only a few inches deep so during a post birth recovery, only your perineum is bathed. C-section scars should be kept clean and dry.
2. 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’ each breast completely every time which also increases milk production. Barley, fennel and papaya can all help to boost milk production.
3. Breastfeeding issue no.2 – Mastitis and Cracked Nipples
Breastfeeding can be a wonderful experience for mother and baby. But post birth recovery 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.
4. Post-natal Depression (PND)
This is extremely common and also very close to my heart. I suffered after both my births. It is something I choose to speak openly about, to help normalise the sitution. The more it is spoken about the more women will feel comfortable to speak up and get the help they need. 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 newborn baby while dealing with post-birth recovery is a tiring and wonderful time. Homeopathy may not be able to help with sleep deprivation (sorry!), but it can help with all the above issues!
Email me if you need any help with these health problems.
My Online First Aid Course is ONLY £75! Empower yourself to treat your family and friends with the 18-remedy homeopathic kit. Mother and Baby 1st aid course also available!
