What happens after a baby: Postpartum

What happens to the body after giving birth? The postpartum phase is multifaceted. It is crucial to understand every aspect. I have divided them into sections to provide a comprehensive understanding of what women experience each time a baby is born.

Pelvic floor

Consider this scenario: an adult experiences an injury where their hip bones are widely opened, and the surrounding muscles undergo intense overextension. What would your reaction be? How much do you think this would hurt? How long do you think recovery would take? This is exactly what a woman endures during childbirth.

The uterus is an extraordinary organ, yet it remains significantly understudied. As a woman, awareness of its function often begins at an early age with menstruation. However, during pregnancy, the uterus undergoes remarkable transformation, expanding from the size of a fist to accommodate a growing life, and eventually initiates the complex process of childbirth. This expansion and the subsequent delivery exert considerable strain on a woman's body. The pelvic region experiences immense pressure, as muscles accustomed to supporting a certain weight must now bear the additional load of amniotic fluid, the fetus, and approximately five liters of increased blood volume. The pelvic muscles, which are far more intricate than those targeted by Kegel exercises, form a supportive basket for internal organs and assist in spinal alignment. Meanwhile, the hip bones must widen significantly to allow for childbirth, facilitated by muscles that stretch to accommodate this process. Following delivery, the body must return to its pre-pregnancy state. Much like an overstretched elastic band losing its resilience, the pelvic floor muscles can struggle to regain their original firmness. The bones, having shifted to make room for the baby, are left unstable and lacking the necessary muscular support. The body, having been significantly expanded, requires time and care to recover its previous structure.

Similar to any injury experienced by a non-birthing individual, the pelvic floor requires time to heal. We often find ourselves feeling frustrated and impatient. We live in a culture that emphasizes 'bouncing back' rather than celebrating the beautiful postpartum body that has accomplished so much.

How mothers can be supported

• Gain knowledge about pelvic floor injuries that may occur during pregnancy and childbirth.

• Assist the new mother in engaging in exercises to facilitate her body's healing process. This support involves caring for the baby, allowing her the necessary space for her personal recovery.

• Provide her with all the necessary food, beverages, and attentive care. Postpartum is harder than pregnancy, and even months later, when she looks fine, her body is still healing. Do not forget that.

• Do not focus on her looks, and how quickly or slowly she is losing the gained weight. Do focus on her health.