POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

While postpartum depression is common, it is serious and treatable. Many women experience the “baby blues” for a few weeks after having a child. If the blues last longer than two weeks, you may have postpartum depression. Symptoms of postpartum depression include:

• Feeling sad, anxious or “empty”
• Lack of energy, feeling very tired
• Lack of interest in normal activities
• Changes in sleeping or eating patterns
• Feeling hopeless, helpless, guilty or worthless
• Feeling moody or irritable
• Problems concentrating or making simple decisions
• Thoughts about hurting your baby, even if you will not act on them
• Thoughts about death or suicide

A member of your health care team from Clinic Sofia will call you about two weeks after delivery to assess for postpartum depression and address any other concerns. If you think you are suffering from postpartum depression, get help. Talk to your healthcare provider, call an emergency support line or ask a loved one to help you get the care you need.

BREASTFEEDING

It’s normal for first-time moms to find breastfeeding challenging. Before leaving the hospital, you can seek the help of a lactation consultant to evaluate you and your baby’s technique. Breast health is important during breastfeeding because of the potential for infection, or mastitis. Symptoms of mastitis include fever, chills, aches, redness or thickening on the breast. To avoid infection, keep the breasts dry and soft. There are various creams and products available at most stores. You can find more helpful information on the Breastfeeding for New Moms video created by Clinic Sofia.

GETTING YOUR BODY BACK

During the course of your pregnancy, your skin stretches over your expanding abdomen. After pregnancy, it may take a little while for the skin to shrink to its pre-pregnancy state. Prior to delivery, core-strengthening exercises will help the delivery process and will speed recovery. Hydration, good nutrition and adequate sleep are vital to losing weight, feeling well and getting your body back after pregnancy. You should allow your body about six weeks to heal before starting any vigorous exercise. Exercising too soon could cause heavy bleeding or lead to infection. It is important that you take care of yourself so you are prepared to take care of your baby and family. We recommend that you:

• Sleep when the baby is sleeping
• Divide household duties among other family members
• Take vitamins
• Eat frequent, small meals with snacks and have a balance of protein, fluids, veggies, fruits and other complex carbohydrates

COMMON CONCERNS

You may have some concerns about your health and body after having a baby. Below are some common questions. If you have additional concerns, please email us.