by Autum Liberty

Created on: January 29, 2007   Last Updated: May 25, 2012

Caring for yourself in the post-partum period after you go home

The first six weeks following your deliverey is called the post-partum period. Your body starts to return to normal after labor and delivery. Knowing what to expect is important so you can report any abnormalities to your health care team.

The uterus

A pregnant uterus increases in size to 11 times its normal size. After delivery it is about the size of a grapefruit. The fundus (the top of the uterus) can be palpated right below the belly button. The uterus begins to decrease in size about 1 finger width or 1 cm each day until by the 10th day it can no longer be felt. By 6 weeks it will return to its normal weight, a mere two ounces.

Afterbirth pain? Cramping

As the muscle fibers contract causing cramping, these afterbirth pains are most noticeable in the first 3-4 days following delivery, especially if you've had previous deliveries. You may notice them more when breastfeeding. Just remember this is helping you to shrink the uterus, and reduce blood loss. A mild pain pill may help.

Lochia

The drainage from the birth canal is called lochia. After delivery the discharge is like a menstrual flow. This discharge is red for 2-3 days it then becomes a paler pink or brownish, by 7-10 days its whiteish or yellowish. Its stops around 3 weeks.

Menstrual cycle

Menstraution usually returns within 4-8 weeks if bottle-feeding, if breast-feeding, its within 4 months, but may return 2-18 months post-partum. Ovulation may return before the first menstrual period, so you may want to use a form of contraception to avoid pregnancy.

Bowels

Bowel function may be sliggish following delivery. The first bowel movement occurs usually within 2-3 days. If needed, a laxative or stool softner or enema may be provided.

Hair loss

A weeks following delivery, you may find you are losing large amounts of hair. This is not unusual. Your hair will soon return to its normal growth cycle, but may take several months.

Sexual intercourse

Sexual intercourse can usally be resumed when your episiotomy (or c-section scar) and other pelvic structures have haled. Usually around 3-4 weeks.

Learn more about this author, Autum Liberty.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.