Your recovery after birth

What is normal in the early weeks

• Bleeding (lochia) for around four to six weeks, starting like a heavy period and easing from bright red to brown then lighter, however you gave birth
• Cramping (afterpains), often stronger while breastfeeding, as your uterus shrinks back
• If you had a tear or episiotomy, soreness while stitches heal and dissolve over one to two weeks. Bathe in plain warm water and pat dry
• If you had a caesarean, a healing wound that is tender for a few weeks. Keep it clean and dry, wear loose clothing, and avoid heavy lifting and driving until you are cleared, usually around six weeks
• Breast fullness and tenderness as your milk comes in around day three or four
• Feeling teary or overwhelmed in the first couple of weeks, the "baby blues"

Helping yourself heal

• Rest when you can, and accept help with meals, washing and older children
• Eat well and keep your fluids up, especially if breastfeeding
• Start gentle pelvic floor exercises when you feel able
• Take pain relief if you need it, and ask a pharmacist, midwife or GP what is safe while breastfeeding

When to call for help

Call your GP, child and family health nurse, or the maternity unit on 02 6330 5210 if you have heavy bleeding (soaking a pad in an hour, or passing large clots), a fever, a wound or stitches that become red, swollen or smelly, severe pain, a painful or hot area in your leg, or a bad headache. If you ever feel you cannot cope, or have thoughts that frighten you, reach out the same day. In an emergency call 000.