Postnatal Care
Borneo Hospital in Thane provides excellent postnatal care to new mothers and their babies. Our caring team is here to help mothers recover physically and emotionally after childbirth. We also ensure that the newborns receive the best possible care.
What is postnatal care?
Postnatal care is the care that a woman receives after giving birth. It typically begins shortly after delivery and continues for several weeks or months. The goal of postnatal care is to help the woman recover from childbirth and ensure the newborn's health.
Importance of postnatal care for new mothers
Postnatal care is vital for new mothers for several reasons.
- Identify and treat any health problems. Postnatal care can help identify and treat health problems such as postpartum hemorrhage, infection, or postpartum depression.
- Postnatal care offers information and support to new mothers, covering topics like breastfeeding , baby care, and managing postpartum depression. This empowers mothers and boosts their confidence in caring for their babies.
- Postnatal care can monitor the mother's physical recovery from childbirth, such as the healing of her incision (if she had a C-section) and the return of her menstrual cycle.
- Postnatal care can screen for postpartum complications, such as postpartum depression, anxiety, and thyroid problems.
- Postnatal care can promote bonding between mother and baby by encouraging skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding.
Physical recovery and healing after childbirth
Here are some key points to consider for postpartum recovery:
- Get as much rest as possible, especially during the first few weeks. Accept help from family and friends.
- Use pain medications prescribed by your healthcare provider. Apply ice packs or use sitz baths for relief.
- Keep the area clean and dry. Use warm water to cleanse after using the bathroom. Avoid harsh soaps or wipes.
- Ensure a proper latch if you're breastfeeding. Consult a lactation consultant if you experience nipple pain or damage.
- Strengthen your pelvic floor muscles by doing Kegels. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
- Eat a nutritious diet and stay hydrated. Focus on whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Drink plenty of water.
- Consult with your healthcare provider about when it's safe to start exercising again.
Nutrition and Diet for postpartum women
Here are some key guidelines for postpartum nutrition:
- Eat a balanced diet that includes whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.
- Get enough protein (about 20-30 grams per meal).
- Include healthy fats (avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil, fatty fish).
- Eat iron-rich foods (lean red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, spinach, fortified cereals).
- Get enough fiber and fluids (whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, water).
- Include omega-3 fatty acids (fatty fish, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds).
- Limit processed foods and added sugars.
- Consider taking supplements as recommended by your healthcare provider.
- If breastfeeding, talk to your healthcare provider about foods or substances that may affect your baby.
Remember, focusing on nourishing your body and providing the necessary nutrients for recovery is important. Listen to your body's hunger and fullness cues, and don't hesitate to reach out to us for personalized guidance on nutrition during the postpartum period.
Common postnatal complications and how to manage them
Postnatal complications can arise after childbirth and need to be managed promptly. Common complications include postpartum hemorrhage (excessive bleeding), infection, urinary issues, perineal pain, postpartum depression, breastfeeding difficulties, and deep vein thrombosis.
Managing these complications involves:
- Interventions like uterine massage and medication for hemorrhage.
- Antibiotics for infection.
- Maintaining good hygiene for wound care.
- Staying hydrated for urinary issues.
- Pain management techniques for perineal discomfort.
- Seeking support for postpartum depression.
- Consulting lactation consultants for breastfeeding challenges.
- Seeking immediate medical attention for suspected deep vein thrombosis.
Postnatal exercises and physical activity
After childbirth, postnatal exercises and physical activity are essential for a woman's physical and mental health. Exercise can help to:
- Restore muscle strength and tone
- Lose weight
- Improve cardiovascular health
- Reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes
- Improve mood and reduce stress
- Promote better sleep
- Help to heal the pelvic floor muscles
- Prepare the body for future pregnancies
Some safe and effective postnatal exercises include:
- Brisk walking
- Swimming
- Aqua aerobics
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Low-impact aerobics
- Weight training