5 Ways to Take Care of Yourself After Giving Birth

Bringing a baby into the world is a life-changing experience, but there’s no denying the toll it takes on your body and mind. And while it’s normal that much of your attention shifts to caring for your newborn, it’s important to prioritize your well-being too.

Just like your pregnancy journey is unique, postpartum care isn’t one-size-fits-all, either. Our team at South Valley Women's Health Care is here to help you take intentional steps to care for yourself after giving birth to lower your risk of complications and support your long-term well-being.

Here are five ways to take care of yourself after having a baby:

1. Make rest and nutrition a priority

Birthing a child is an incredible experience, and now your body needs time to recover. Getting sleep while caring for a newborn is often easier said than done, but do try to rest whenever you can. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your partner, family members, and friends. 

Eat balanced meals with lean protein, whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables to support tissue healing, energy levels, and milk production if you’re breastfeeding. Consider meal prepping before your baby’s arrival or use a meal subscription service to make things simpler. And remember to stay hydrated, especially during those early weeks of recovery.

2. Attend your postpartum checkup(s)

Postpartum care doesn’t end when you leave the hospital. Your postpartum visit is an important opportunity to assess your physical and emotional health, address any concerns about recovery, and develop a plan for ongoing care.

We typically schedule postpartum checkups within six weeks of delivery and sometimes earlier if you had a complicated birth or cesarean delivery. We’ll assess healing, screen for postpartum depression, and help guide you through any questions about birth control, breastfeeding, or returning to sexual activity.

3. Learn what’s normal — and when to seek help

After giving birth, it’s normal to experience fatigue, vaginal bleeding (lochia), cramping, and breast discomfort. But it’s also important to know when symptoms could signal a problem. You should never ignore bleeding that gets heavier, high fever, severe pain, or signs of infection.

On the emotional side, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed or tearful during the first two weeks postpartum, and these symptoms are often called the “baby blues.” However, persistent or severe sadness, irritability, or detachment could be signs of postpartum depression or anxiety.

4. Ease back into movement

Movement can help improve circulation, boost your mood, and reduce stress, but it’s important to listen to your body when you’re recovering from childbirth.

Start with gentle walks, stretching, or breathing exercises, and only return to more strenuous activity when your provider gives you the green light. Pelvic floor exercises can also support recovery and help reduce issues such as incontinence.

5. Stay connected and supported

Caring for a newborn isn’t easy, and you weren’t meant to do this alone. Whether it’s with a partner, parent, friend, or postpartum support group, staying socially connected can make a big difference in your mental health. 

Our team at South Valley Women's Health Care is always here to listen and help you get the support you need.

You deserve postpartum care that’s as unique as you. Contact us to book an appointment, and let us help make your well-being a priority — postpartum and beyond.