Bringing a new baby into the world is a life-changing moment, but the postpartum period can be just as intense as pregnancy itself. During this time, mothers undergo significant physical, emotional, and mental changes. That’s why knowing what to do and avoid postpartum is essential for a healthy recovery and to help new mums regain strength, confidence, and balance.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the postpartum do’s and don’ts every mother should know.
Postpartum Do’s: What New Mums Should Focus On
1. Do Prioritize Rest and Sleep
Your body is healing from the stress of childbirth. Getting enough rest allows your muscles and tissues to recover and helps regulate mood and hormones. Hire a postpartum helper like a confinement nanny to let you have a great rest!
2. Do Eat a Nutrient-Dense Diet
Proper nutrition speeds up postpartum recovery and supports healthy milk production. Focus on warm, easy-to-digest meals packed with protein, iron, fiber, and vitamins. Traditional confinement meals like soups, herbal teas can nourish your body from the inside out. If you would like to have a great breastfeeding experience, lactation cookies can help to boost your milk production.
3. Do Practice Gentle Exercise
Light stretching and postpartum-specific workouts like pelvic floor exercises help strengthen your core, and improve circulation. If you had a C-section, consult your doctor before starting any exercise routine.
4. Do Maintain Proper Hygiene
Keeping your body clean, especially around stitches or incisions, is vital. Use mild, non-irritating products, and ensure the helper also follows strict hygiene practices when handling the baby.
5. Do Monitor Emotional Well-Being
Feeling overwhelmed is normal. If you experience persistent sadness, anxiety, or mood swings beyond two weeks, you could be facing postpartum depression. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Early intervention makes a big difference.
Postpartum Don’ts: What to Avoid After Giving Birth
1. Don’t Overexert Yourself
Even if you feel “okay,” your body is still recovering. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous chores, or standing for long hours. Overexertion can delay healing and even lead to complications like abdominal separation or uterine prolapse.
2. Don’t Skip Meals or Hydration
Postpartum weight loss should be gradual and natural. Skipping meals can affect milk supply and slow recovery. Instead, aim for small, frequent meals and drink at least 6–8 glasses of water daily.
3. Don’t Ignore Unusual Symptoms
Painful urination, persistent bleeding, fever, or severe mood swings should never be ignored. These could be signs of infection or other postpartum complications. Always consult a medical professional if you feel something isn’t right.
4. Don’t Let Visitors Overwhelm You
While well-meaning friends and family want to meet your baby, too many visitors can increase stress and expose your newborn to illnesses. Set boundaries and prioritise bonding time with your baby and partner.
5. Don’t Use Harsh Products or Chemicals
Your skin is extra sensitive postpartum. Stick to natural or hypoallergenic products, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Anything you apply to your body could be transferred to your baby.
Why Postpartum Care Matters
The postpartum period isn’t just about the baby. It’s about you, the mother, too. With the right care, support, and awareness, you can recover fully and feel confident in your new role. At Confinement Angels, we’re dedicated to walking this journey with you. Our experienced nannies offer professional, compassionate care tailored to your newborn and each mum’s unique postpartum needs.
Contact Confinement Angels today to learn more
