What No One Tells You About Postpartum Recovery
They say your life changes after giving birth. Well, yes, that’s expected, but so is your body and your mind forever changed.
From leaky breasts to postpartum abdominal pain, we’re told it’s part of the great adventure of being a new mom. So suck it up and smile through gritted teeth.
You want the truth? Nobody tells you about the complete moments of despair when your baby won’t stop crying. Or, that your sagging tummy will probably stay like that, no matter how hard you exercise.
Hold on, we haven’t gotten to the fun part(s) yet.
The Six-Week Myth
There’s a common misconception that you’ll be fully recovered at your six-week postpartum checkup. The reality is that many women don’t feel like themselves for months or even years after giving birth.
After consulting the experts, Parents reported that full postpartum recovery may take up to two years. Let that sink in…
That includes healing from vaginal tearing or C-sections, hormone regulation, and emotional adjustments.
Your body has done something extraordinary, and it deserves more than a rushed timeline. Not everybody has Cardi B money and goes under the knife months after giving birth. Instead of aiming to “bounce back,” focus on healing at your own pace.
Your Body Will Surprise You
You are a queen and a warrior. Your body was made for the worst kind of pain. However, it takes a while to adjust.
Even if you had a smooth delivery, your postpartum body can feel completely unfamiliar. You might experience bleeding for up to six weeks, night sweats, hair loss, or breast engorgement.
And don’t be surprised if your core feels like jelly and your pelvic floor is nonexistent.
Nonetheless, it’s important to know when something isn’t normal. Pain during sex, constant leaking, or pelvic pressure could be signs of complications.
Pelvic Floor Issues
Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is common postpartum. Because the pelvic floor muscles support the uterus and bladder, PFD symptoms can include urinary incontinence and prolapse.
Doctors sometimes recommend transvaginal mesh implants for pelvic floor repair. Proceed with caution. Surgical mesh implants, used to treat pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI), were linked to serious complications.
Complaints resulted in the vaginal mesh lawsuit where thousands of patients accused manufacturers of failing to test their surgical mesh devices.
Transvaginal mesh surgery has been the subject of debate in the medical community for several years. While many benefited from the pelvic mesh implants, TorHoerman Law says that others experienced chronic pain, severe pelvic pain, and vaginal scarring.
The moral of the story? Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and explore all treatment options.
The Mental Health Struggle Is Real
Yes, the mental health struggle is real, but what happens when it becomes unbearable?
Postpartum depression (PPD) affects one in seven women. Yet, it’s still widely misunderstood and under-discussed.
The cultural expectation is that new mothers should be glowing with joy. In many places, mental health struggles are stigmatized, making it harder for mothers to ask for help.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or off isn’t a sign that you’re a bad mom. Talk to your doctor, reach out to a therapist, or confide in someone you trust.
You May Not Have Enough Support
In some countries, postpartum care is sparse. One visit, typically six weeks after birth, is often the extent of formal medical follow-up.
Compare that to places where postnatal retreats and home visits are part of the standard care plan. No wonder moms feel isolated and underprepared.
You deserve support beyond diaper duty. Consider organizing a postpartum care plan. Think about meals, help with chores, and someone to hold the baby while you nap or shower.
If it’s within your means, even short-term help from a postpartum doula can make a world of difference.
Permit Yourself to Say You’re Struggling
There’s pressure to “cherish every moment,” but some moments are hard.
The middle-of-the-night feeds, the cracked nipples, the endless crying (yours and the baby’s). It’s OK to admit you’re having a tough time.
You don’t always have to be grateful. You don’t need to have it all together. Vulnerability is a hidden strength, not a weakness.
Which brings us to self-care. Right now, it seems like a luxury. Believe us when we say even small acts like brushing your hair or stepping outside for fresh air can help you feel human again.
And, don’t wait for someone to offer you permission to rest. Some moms invest in postnatal retreats. Meals, massages, and baby care are included.
While not accessible to everyone, it highlights how far we’ve come in recognizing that mothers need mothering, too.
Take a deep breath because it will pass. Cherish the happy moments and let out a silent scream for the frustrating ones.
By the way, it takes two to make a baby. Parenting is 50/50. Let Dad know when it’s their turn to play Mama.