Post Birth Surprises

After everything you could have heard about pregnancy and birth, there still might be some post birth surprises!

Here are some of those surprises that you might want to know:

1. There can be a lot of bleeding. You will probably be going home in an adult diaper and it will be uncomfortable.
   *TOP TIP* – put aloe on a very big maxi pad and put it in the freezer to act as a cooling ice pack for some relief.
2. Going to the bathroom might be a bit daunting. Sitting on the toilet can be scary but make sure you use a squeezy bottle to keep your downstairs clean. You won’t be able to wipe for the first few days so this will be your new best friend.
3. Bladder control can be hard immediately after giving birth. You might pee yourself and that is ok. It is down to the fact that your muscles have just gone through a marathon! Holding your pee will be difficult and painful but it will get better.
   *TOP TIP* – start kegel exercises during your pregnancy and continue them after the birth.
4. You will be physically slower. Your body has gone through a lot and giving birth to a baby is no easy feat. You may think that once the baby is out you will feel more normal but you might feel heavier and it may be more difficult to get around for the first few days.
5. You might be quite swollen. A lot of blood was lost, you were given fluids and it all needs to go somewhere. This may result in swollen body including your legs and your vaginal region. Don’t worry, the swelling will go down!

Your body will know what to do, so as much as you can prepare and read up on everything postpartum your body will go back to doing what it’s meant to do. Postpartum hormones are intense. Everyone can be affected differently, but have faith in your own body because you will get through it. Have a look here to find out what else to expect from the early days of motherhood.

Don’t be worried about these post birth surprises and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Trust your instincts and If something doesn’t feel right, contact your doctor.