Q: Is a postpartum physical examination necessary?
A: About 4-6 weeks after delivery, the doctor will schedule a postpartum health check to see if the mother’s organs have returned to normal and to check for any complications. This includes abdominal examination, internal examination, cervical cancer screening, and overall health assessment, as well as providing advice on postpartum contraception to prevent getting pregnant too soon.
Q: Possible symptoms after childbirth
A: Lochia, or blood and tissue discharged from the uterine lining after delivery, is common. In the first 2-3 days, the discharge is bright red and quite heavy, then gradually fades to light brown and decreases in amount until it stops. The uterus will involute about 4-6 weeks postpartum. There is no need to worry if the lochia is light. However, if the lochia has a foul odor, remains bright red all the time, or increases in amount, see a doctor immediately. While breastfeeding, lochia may be more abundant and accompanied by uterine pain (abdominal pain) because the uterus contracts to expel the lochia.
Q: Is abdominal pain dangerous and how should it be managed?
A: Lower abdominal pain around the uterus is normal as the uterus contracts to reduce bleeding in the uterine cavity after delivery. If the pain is severe, especially during breastfeeding when the uterus contracts more, painkillers can be taken.
Q: Will menstruation be normal after delivery?
A: Mothers who breastfeed usually do not have menstruation. However, if menstruation occurs during breastfeeding, it is not considered abnormal. Breastfeeding is not a reliable method of contraception. After more than 3 months, ovulation can occur at any time. For mothers who do not breastfeed, menstruation usually returns within 6-8 weeks postpartum. The first menstruation may last longer or be heavier than usual.
Q: Can sexual intercourse be resumed after childbirth?
A: Sexual intercourse should be avoided for 4-6 weeks after delivery because during the postpartum period, lochia is present, the cervix is not fully closed, and internal organs have not yet returned to normal. Engaging in intercourse too soon may cause pain or infection.
Q: How important is contraception?
A: Without contraception, pregnancy can occur. For the health of the mother and child in the future, it is recommended to space pregnancies about 1-2 years apart using contraception. There are many methods available, and the choice should be discussed with a doctor for suitability in each case.
Q: Tips for caring for wounds from (natural delivery)
A: Avoid using tampons in the vagina as they may increase the risk of infection. For perineal care (in vaginal delivery), mothers may feel pain at the perineal wound for about 2-3 weeks after delivery. Clean the area with liquid soap from front to back to avoid transferring bacteria from the anus to the wound. If the wound is very painful, soaking in warm water mixed with a small amount of potassium permanganate for 15 minutes can improve blood circulation and speed healing.
Q: How do mothers care for their breasts after delivery?
A: For breastfeeding mothers, breasts will enlarge and become heavier after delivery. When breasts become engorged, wear a supportive bra to hold the breasts. In the first 2-3 days, colostrum is produced, which is very beneficial for the baby. By the third day postpartum, mothers may feel breast fullness and pain, sometimes accompanied by fever. It is important to allow the baby to breastfeed until the breast is empty.
For mothers who do not breastfeed, inform the doctor before delivery to prevent milk production and avoid engorgement and pain. If breast fullness occurs, do not stimulate the breasts in any way. Express milk once until the breasts soften and pain subsides, apply cold compresses, and then wear a tight, supportive bra.
When cleaning the breasts during bathing, washing with plain water is sufficient. Using soap can remove natural oils from the nipples, causing them to crack easily.
Q: Prohibitions for mothers after delivery
A: Avoid lifting anything heavier than the baby or straining excessively for a long time during the first 2 weeks postpartum. An abdominal binder can be used to support the uterus and prevent excessive movement while walking.
Perineal wound pain
Mothers who deliver vaginally often experience pain at the perineal wound after delivery. If the pain is severe, take painkillers. After about 3-4 days, the pain usually decreases significantly. Most pain resolves within 1 week postpartum. If the wound is very painful, swollen, red, tender to touch, or sitting is difficult, there may be wound infection. See a doctor immediately for treatment.
Constipation
Within one week after delivery, mothers often experience constipation or hemorrhoids. After delivery, it is important to eat foods high in fiber such as vegetables and fruits and drink plenty of water. If problems persist, consult a doctor for advice. Using strong laxatives may affect the breastfeeding baby and cause diarrhea.
Anemia
After delivery, mothers often experience anemia due to blood loss during childbirth, whether minor or significant. Therefore, postpartum doctors usually recommend taking iron supplements for at least 1 month to help the body recover quickly.
Depression
Depression, also known as Postpartum Blues, often occurs during the first week after delivery for unknown reasons. This condition usually resolves on its own within 2-3 days. Postpartum depression may involve various uncomfortable feelings related to childbirth, excitement, fear of pregnancy and delivery, fatigue from childbirth, or worries about child-rearing. Some mothers may also be concerned about their appearance. Therefore, mothers should prepare mentally to cope with these conditions to better manage or resolve them.
“Depression often occurs in mothers during the first week postpartum, and fathers should pay special attention and care to help alleviate the symptoms.”
