What is the postpartum period?
The postpartum period, also known as the postnatal period, refers to the weeks and months following childbirth. The body gradually recovers from pregnancy and childbirth: the uterus slowly returns to its original size, the strained tissues heal, and hormone levels change rapidly. These upheavals contribute to the many physical and emotional changes experienced during this period. Everyone experiences this transition differently, depending on their birth experience, their support system, and their personal history.
What physical changes can you expect?
After childbirth, the body gradually adapts to recover from pregnancy and childbirth. Bleeding, contractions, tenderness in the perineum or at the incision site, changes in the breasts, severe fatigue, and changes in bowel movements and urination may occur in the first few days and weeks.
These changes are generally temporary and gradually subside.
Baby blues or postpartum depression: what’s the difference?
The postpartum period is also a time of many emotional changes. Fatigue, hormonal fluctuations, lack of sleep, and adjusting to the baby’s arrival can affect your mood and make certain emotions more intense. It’s common to feel more sensitive, emotional, or anxious, with moments of joy mixed in with more difficult ones. The baby blues are common in the first few days and usually go away on their own. When the distress becomes severe, persists, or makes daily life difficult, it’s important to talk about it. It could be postpartum depression.
Tips for Taking Care of Yourself
There’s no single way to experience the postpartum period. However, a few simple habits can help you recover and get through this time more calmly:
- Get as much rest as possible. Rest when your baby sleeps—household chores can wait.
- Pay attention to your diet and hydration, especially if you’re breastfeeding
- Take care of your perineum and any scars following the advice given at the maternity ward
- Listen to your body and gradually resume your activities, without trying to get back to your usual routine right away.
- Accept help from those around you—whether it’s with meals, errands, or simply having someone there for you.
- Set aside your need for perfection: no parent does everything “just right.”
- Talk about how you’re feeling, even when your emotions seem hard to explain.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help: your family and friends, midwife, doctor, gynecologist, pediatrician, or other healthcare professional can support you.
When Should You Seek Medical Attention?
Most postpartum changes are normal and gradually improve. However, certain signs require you to seek medical advice promptly:
- Heavy bleeding or bleeding that increases suddenly.
- A fever or chills
- Severe, unusual, or worsening pain
- Pain, swelling, or redness in a leg
- A red, painful, or swollen incision, or one with discharge
- Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain
- Severe headaches, especially if accompanied by vision problems
- Intense sadness, severe anxiety, a feeling of being unable to cope, or negative thoughts
In case of a medical emergency, call 144. For general questions, your midwife or gynecologist is your first point of contact. If you feel the need to talk to someone outside of office hours, La Main Tendue (143) is available day and night.
When in doubt, it’s always better to seek advice rather than deal with your concerns alone.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Postpartum Period
How long does the postpartum period last?
The postpartum period generally covers the first six to eight weeks after childbirth, which is the time it takes for the uterus to return to its original size. Some changes, such as fatigue or weight regain, may last several months.
Is it normal to cry for no reason after giving birth?
Yes, this is one of the signs of the baby blues, which is very common between the second and fifth day. It usually goes away within a few days. If the crying or sadness persists beyond two weeks, talk to your midwife or doctor.
When can I resume physical activity?
Gentle activity, such as walking, can be resumed as soon as you feel ready. More intense activities should be avoided for the first six weeks, and for even longer after a C-section. Your OB-GYN can help you determine the right time to resume.
My sex desire has disappeared: is this serious?
No, a decrease in libido is common after childbirth due to fatigue and hormonal changes. You can resume sexual activity when you feel ready. If this concerns you, your midwife or OB-GYN can discuss it with you.
Key Takeaways
- The postpartum period lasts about six to eight weeks; it’s a time of transition marked by physical and emotional changes that gradually subside. Your body is gradually recovering from pregnancy and childbirth as you adjust to your new life with your baby.
- Fatigue, physical changes, and mood swings are common. They don’t mean that something is wrong.
- The “baby blues,” which are common and temporary, affect nearly seven out of ten women.
- If feelings of sadness last longer than two weeks, it’s important to seek help: postpartum depression is treatable. LINK
- Listening to your body, taking care of yourself, and asking for and accepting help when you need it are all an integral part of this period.
- If in doubt, your midwife, your OB-GYN, or the 144 helpline are reliable sources of support.