Congrats on your new status as a Mum! As busy as you are, it’s vital you focus on your postpartum care, helping you get back on your feet as soon as you can.

With a welcome to motherhood also comes a welcome to postpartum care. You’ve carried a baby for months, your body has changed in so many ways and now feels different again. We’re spending some time today discussing what postpartum care involves and easy ways you can help your mind and body recover from childbirth.

What is Postpartum Care?

Postpartum care technically occurs during the first six weeks after childbirth, though this time is often lengthened. Known as a time for bonding with your baby, it is also a time where you adjust to motherhood and focus specifically on caring for yourself.

After giving birth, you could have several physical and mental challenges including vaginal tearing and soreness, a c-section wound, incontinence or being unable to pass urine or stools, haemorrhoids, sore breasts, mood changes, hair loss and skin changes. Seeking advice specific to your needs is important, so be sure to discuss these with your midwife or OBGYN.

 Pictured: Peri Wash Cleansing Bottle & Witch Hazel

Caring for Yourself During the Postpartum Period

Depending on your specific physical and mental symptoms, selfcare during this period can differ. We’ve put together a collection of general tips and ways to help yourself during this time:

• Rest – you’ve been through a lot, and you need to rest. Easier said than done, sleep when baby is asleep and don’t be afraid to ask for help from others for meals, housework, and childcare.
• Eat healthy meals – your body needs energy to heal. Aim for a healthy diet and drink plenty of fluids if you are breastfeeding. A high fibre diet can reduce constipation and help with passing bowel motions.
• Limit visitors – you’ll most likely want to introduce your baby to others, and they to meet him or her. Limiting visitors though can ensure a calm environment where the wellbeing of you and baby come first.
• Supplies – having ice packs for pain, lots of maternity pads, healing sprays or creams, pillows and breast pads will be very handy. Our Viva La Vulva range is useful to have on hand, especially The Good Witch Hazel and Healing Spray Kit.

Selfcare is so important and it can easily be overlooked. You are just as important as your new baby and you need to be healthy to look after them. If you need help, please reach out to someone you trust or get in touch and we can help guide you to an appropriate person or organisation. We also have a lot of helpful articles specially written to help new parents and invite you to come and explore them.