My postpartum journey was tough (and so was my breastfeeding journey). Even 18 months in, I still felt like I’m on the road to full recovery. Despite the advice and experiences shared by friends, mom friends, mom groups, and family members, some truths about postpartum recovery are often left unsaid.
The Road to Recovery: It’s Not Just a Few Days
For me, postpartum recovery wasn’t limited to a few days of bed rest. As a breastfeeding mom, the cluster feedings, and overall breastfeeding journey can make bedrest a challenge. Looking back, I’ve realized how important it is to focus on my recovery, as much as caring for my daughter. So for expecting ummas(mamas) please remember to give yourself grace and time for you. While some mothers can feel recovered around 6-8 weeks postpartum, it may take longer to feel yourself again.
Juggling Your Body, Hormones, and Baby
Juggling my new hormones, body changes, and caring for my baby was overwhelming. My body had undergone significant changes, and it was important to give myself time to heal both physically and emotionally. While the journey of childbirth and now having a child is a blessing and one of the best accomplishments in my life, there were days during postpartum when I just didn’t feel like myself—lost, exhausted, and utterly overwhelmed.
These feelings are normal, and with the right support, I was able to recover and strive to be the best new umma I could be. If you’re feeling the same way, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor, family, or other moms for help and guidance. Seeking support from others after postpartum can provide comfort, reassurance, and valuable advice during a challenging time of adjustment.
Recovery Products That Helped Me
During my “fourth trimester,” I found several products and tips incredibly helpful:
Sitz Bath:
The RUGUO Sitz Bath provided comfort before and after birth. During my last trimester, I used it with warm water to soothe the perineal area. During postpartum, I used this before baths/showers with the Earth Mama Organic Herbal tea bags for about 5 minutes to help with the healing process.
Herbal Sitz Bath:
Paired with the Sitz Bath, the Earth Mama Organic Herbal Sitz Bath provided extra comfort and healing for the perineal area.
TUCKS Medicated Cooling Pads:
These pads were a lifesaver. I was provided these in the hospital and was able to take a couple of packs home. Once I ran out at home, I immediately ordered more online and I kept them in my bathroom and used them with ice wraps for additional cooling relief.
ICEWRAPS Postpartum Pads:
Convenient and soothing, these pads provide relief after using the restroom.
Dermoplast Pain Relief Spray:
This became a must-use product in my bathroom during my postpartum recovery period, providing relief throughout the day.
Earth Mama Perineal Balm:
Applied in the evenings and before naps, this balm provides soothing relief. For extra comfort, I kept it in the fridge and applied it all over the perineal area.
Postpartum Vitamins:
Ensuring I was getting the right nutrients was important for recovery and breastfeeding. Note: Diet and staying hydrated is a huge part of postpartum recovery. It can be tough to maintain a healthy diet especially when you’re sleep deprived and not feeling 100%. There were a few recipes I relied on during this time.
At the hospital, they recommend you to continue taking prenatal vitamins but in your 4th trimester and even afterward for nursing mamas, you need more nutrients than what prenatal can offer. Here’s an article about the difference between prenatal and postpartum vitamins. I took prenatal up to 15 months postpartum while still nursing and ended up with a herniated disc and major joint pain. Don’t be me!
Stool Softener:
onstipation can be a common issue postpartum, so a stool softener can be incredibly helpful. If you give birth at the hospital you can request this after giving birth. I’ve also talked to moms who take it 2 weeks before their expected delivery. For those those vaginal birth mamas, trust me on this.
Conclusion
The postpartum period is a time of immense change and adjustment. While it can be challenging, it’s also a time of growth and bonding with your newborn. Remember to be patient with yourself and seek support when needed. Your postpartum journey is unique, and what worked for me may not work for everyone. Find what brings you comfort and healing, and know that it’s okay to ask for help along the way.
