Common Problems After Pregnancy: How To Deal With Post-partum Issues

You can't help but feel proud of what you have gone through over the past nine months -- what you've had to endure, and how marvellous the whole process is . But, once the pregnancy is over, you now have the most incredible reward -- an amazing little life, and the new title of 'mum'. Coming to terms with your new role, while learning how to care for your baby, can be overwhelming for any woman.

As exciting and happy a time it is, unfortunately, like everything in life, there is a downside to becoming a new mum. Your body faces significant changes in the weeks and months following your baby's birth. In this post-partum period, which begins immediately after delivery, your body will heal from childbirth, rebuild its strength and begin to regain its pre-pregnancy shape.

The changes in your body are completely normal, so you shouldn't worry. But, some of the changes can be quite devastating to a woman's self-esteem and confidence. The more you know about what to expect, the better prepared you'll be to cope with the physical and emotional changes that come post-pregnancy.

So, here are some of the most common problems that women face after giving birth...

Post-partum Infections

The majority of new-mums experience a variety of infections. The most common are uterine, bladder, or kidney infections. Most are temporary, and will naturally clear away, but some can be more severe, and would require medical treatment.

If you are experiencing serious infections, then see a doctor as soon as possible. Although these issues may seem small, they can easily build up, therefore it is important to tackle it early.

Vaginal Discharge

Periods usually slow down by end of two weeks, however light or intermittent bleeding might continue up until six weeks. Recurrent heavy bleeding or clotting with or without foul smell must be reported to doctor immediately.  These tend to be minor problems, but you shouldn't let them get serious.  Get it treated early to avoid future complications.

Breast Problems

Soreness in nipples is perfectly normal, and usually resolved within few days after delivery. Usually by then you would know how to properly latch baby to your nipples, and the baby also adapts naturally.

A few days after your baby’s birth, your breast milk will increase to larger volume. At this point you will feel sensations in your breasts and you will hear baby swallowing while nursing. There is a strong possibility that your breast will get full with milk and become very hard -- this is called engorgement. To avoid this, try and feed baby in shorter intervals. Ice packs or hot towels soothe engorged breasts.

Overfull breasts usually leak out. Put soft pads, while sleeping or going to out, to prevent major leaks. Change them frequently to keep your nipples dry.

Leaking Urine

Muscles get stretched out during vaginal birth which leads to poor bladder control. Kegel exercises (consult your doctor to know more on kegels) help strengthening your muscles. With C-section deliveries these problems do not persist.

Acidity and Gas Problem

Lying down for long builds up gas inside. Walking and laying to your side will help reduce gas problems. This problem is more pertinent with C-section deliveries as intestines often slow to recover from surgery.

Haemorrhoids and Constipation

Pain killers usually aggravate constipation, but the intake of fluids and soft food prevents constipation. Too much of constipation and pushing during vaginal birth sometimes result in haemorrhoids development. These are present at anal opening and itch, burn and sometimes even bleed. Talk to your doctor if the problem persists.

Swollen Feet

Particularly after C-section, you might observe swollen feet because of high sodium content of the intravenous fluids that you received during surgery. The problem should resolve itself within a few days.

Hair Loss

Baldness and thinning hair is a common problem that many women face after giving birth. Post-partum hair loss is considered to be a temporary condition, and usually clears after six months, but in some cases, it can have longer lasting effects.

Multi-vitamin hair supplements offer a safe and natural solution for new mums suffering with thinning hair. A good multi-vitamin hair supplement will help prevent excess shedding, and promote stronger, faster growing hair.