It’s the first week postpartum…

You’ve just experienced the most significant moment of your life and then were sent home with all the diapers, pads and postpartum supplies. Then it hits you, how do I care for myself AND my baby?! What does a “tear” or “prolapse” in my recovery really mean? What does “protect your incision” look like or “don’t lift more than the baby” when I still have to schlep carseats around and bring my baby to the doctor? How do I heal myself while meeting the needs of this little human and why does 6 weeks of waiting until my next check up feel like an eternity? It’s true there’s a gap in care. Women need more support during their recovery. Yes, the first few weeks are a time of healing. The uterus is going through a period of involution and shrinking back to normal size. Rest is vital and the pelvic floor is less resilient to overload and pressure during these initial weeks. But there are strategies to help. Body mechanics and positions that support healing and recovery. Healthy breathing patterns to help with pressure management through the pelvic floor. Coordination that encourages more connection to activate the pelvic floor with other key core muscle groups and not keep straining. Bowel and bladder education that is vital for recovery. We need to hold the mother just as much as we hold the baby.