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After Pregnancy

After giving birth, focusing on physical and emotional recovery is important. Regular postpartum check-ups are essential to monitor your health and address any concerns. Proper nutrition, hydration, and rest will support your body’s healing process. Emotional well-being is equally important, so seek support from loved ones and consider joining a support group. Stay informed about newborn care, and don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare providers for guidance.

Take care of you

Remember to take care of yourself while recovering from childbirth.

In the first days and weeks:

  • Cold compresses: Cold washcloths or ice packs are helpful for reducing swelling and pain.
  • Gradual exercise: Consult your doctor about when it’s safe to start exercising. Gradually incorporate physical activity into your routine. Remember, taking care of yourself is essential during this postpartum period.
  • Laxatives: Laxatives (stool softeners) help ease bowel movements after birth.
  • Mental Health: It’s essential to take care of your mental health and have a support system in place. Pregnancy can be emotional, and having support can help your well-being. Click here for resources.
  • Nutritious meals: Maintain a balanced diet to promote healing. Focus on simple, nutritious meals that include a variety of food groups.
  • Perineal hygiene: Use mild cleaning products and soothing sprays for the region of skin between the vagina and the anus, also called perineum.
  • Personal care: Allocate time for activities you enjoy.
  • Prioritize rest: Make rest a priority. Sleep when the baby sleeps, even if it’s just for a few minutes at a time.
  • Positive environment: Surround yourself with positive people and create a stress-free atmosphere.
  • Relaxed attire: Wear comfortable clothing, suitable for rest and breastfeeding.
  • Safe pain management: Consult a doctor for appropriate pain relief options before taking any medications.
  • Sanitary pads: Stock up on sanitary pads to absorb post-birth bleeding.
  • Support system: Ask for and accept help from family and friends to ensure adequate sleep, nutrition, exercise and overall support. Let them help with household tasks so you can rest and recover.
  • Task delegation: Ask for assistance with household duties.

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Take care of baby

  • Breastfeeding:
    • Get a breast pump – Check with your insurance company and healthcare provider to see if you can get a free breast pump.
    • Choose a lactation counselor.
    • Discuss challenges with your ob-gyn.
    • Plan for skin-to-skin contact after delivery.
    • Remember that not everyone can breastfeed, so seek support if needed.
    • Join a support group.
    • Visit the Illinois Public Health Institute website for resources, including how-to videos.
  • Child car passenger safety: Motor vehicle injuries are a significant cause of child deaths, but can be prevented. To reduce the risk of serious injury and death, ensure that children are correctly secured in car seats, booster seats and seat belts appropriate for their age and size. For more information, visit the CDC website: Child Passenger Safety.
  • Clean environment: Ensure access to clean water and proper hygiene.
  • Diaper changes: Expect to change diapers about 10 times a day.
  • Doctor visits: Go for regular baby check-ups.
  • Feedings: Babies often want to eat frequently – typically every 1 to 3 hours. It’s recommended that they be breast-fed or formula-fed every 2 to 3 hours for a total of 8 to 12 feedings daily.
  • First bath: Wait 24 hours for the first bath, then give sponge baths until the umbilical cord falls off. A sponge bath is like a regular bath, except you don’t put your baby in the water. To learn more, visit HealthyChildren.org.
  • Safe travel: Always use a rear-facing car seat.
  • Screening tests: Get newborn screening to catch any health issues early.
  • Sleep: Always place baby on their back for safe sleep during all naps and night-time periods.
  • Soothing baby: Swaddle your baby gently for comfort.
  • Umbilical cord care: Keep the cord stump dry and clean.
  • Vaccinations: Follow your healthcare provider’s advice on vaccines to protect against diseases. For more information, visit the CDC website: Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule by Age.

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Learn about safe sleep

  • Comfortable temperature: The room should not be too hot or cold, just comfortable.
  • Do not use positioners: Do not use products that say they reduce SIDS—they might not be safe.
  • Doctor visits: Take your baby to the doctor regularly for check-ups.
  • Firm mattress, no soft bedding: Use a firm mattress and only a fitted sheet for the baby’s bed.
  • No smoking: Keep your baby away from smoke before and after they are born.
  • Nothing else in the bed: Keep pillows, toys, and blankets out of the baby’s bed.
  • Own bed in your room: Babies should have their own bed in the same room as you but not in your bed.
  • Sleep on back: Babies should always sleep on their backs for maximum safety. Do not place soft toys or loose bedding in the crib.
  • Tell everyone: Make sure anyone who takes your baby knows these sleep tips.
  • Tummy time when awake: Let your baby play on their tummy when they are awake, and you are watching.
  • Use a pacifier: To promote safe sleep, introduce pacifiers and bottles after breastfeeding (around 4 to 6 weeks) to prevent nipple confusion.
  • For more information:

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Updated December 4, 2024, 2:28 PM