What to Expect in the First 6 Weeks After Birth
What to Expect in the First 6 Weeks After Birth
The first six weeks after childbirth can feel like a whirlwind. Between adjusting to life with a newborn and navigating the physical and emotional changes your body is going through, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Giving birth is a huge experience! Then, taking care of a newborn hardly gives you time to process the birth experience. Often times, feeding challenges and sleep deprivation are also in the mix making it a very overwhelming time. But with some preparation and understanding of what’s to come, you can better manage this transition. Here’s a structured guide to help you know what to expect in the first six weeks after birth.
1. Physical Recovery: What Your Body Is Going Through
After giving birth, your body goes through a lot of physical changes. Whether you had a vaginal delivery or a cesarean section, healing takes time, and it's important to take care of yourself.
Vaginal Discomfort: If you had a vaginal birth, you may experience soreness in your perineum (the area between your vagina and anus). This can last for a few weeks. You might also have vaginal bleeding (lochia), which is normal as your body sheds the lining of the uterus. This bleeding can last for up to six weeks and varies in intensity. It is also very common to have vaginal tearing. This will heal but may be painful in the beginning.
C-Section Recovery: For moms who had a C-section, recovery can take a bit longer. You’ll need to care for your incision site, which might feel tender, sore or painful. Don't rush physical activity, and be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for post-surgery care.
Breastfeeding and Engorgement: If you’re breastfeeding, your breasts may become engorged and sore as your milk comes in, typically 2-3 days after birth. Your breasts may feel hard which can be uncomfortable. Frequent breastfeeding or pumping can help alleviate discomfort. Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance from a lactation consultant if you’re struggling with breastfeeding. Many parents think breastfeeding will come naturally so they are surprised when baby is not latching; this is a very common problem. If you need help finding a lactation consultation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me.
Physical Fatigue: Expect fatigue, and don’t be surprised if you feel physically drained. Your body has just gone through an incredibly intense experience, and it takes time to rebuild your energy. Also, sleep deprivation is normal but will also contribute to your fatigue.
Postpartum Bleeding (Lochia): Lochia is the term for the vaginal bleeding you experience after childbirth. Initially, the bleeding will be heavy and bright red, similar to a heavy period, but will gradually taper off to lighter spotting as your body heals. This process can last anywhere between 4 to 6 weeks, with the heaviest bleeding occurring in the first few days. If you notice unusually heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad every hour), or pass large clots after the first few weeks, it's important to reach out to your healthcare provider for evaluation. These could be signs of complications such as retained placenta or infection and you may need support with this.
Hemorrhoids and Constipation: Hemorrhoids and constipation are common issues after childbirth due to hormonal changes, pressure from the baby during pregnancy, and the physical demands of delivery. To manage hemorrhoids, gentle cleaning, using soothing wipes, doing a sitz bath with witch hazel, and applying topical treatments can help reduce discomfort. To avoid constipation, focus on staying hydrated, eating a high-fiber diet, and taking very gentle walks around the house when you're able. If you’re still struggling, talk to your doctor or midwife, as they may recommend stool softeners or other treatments to ease the discomfort.
2. Emotional Adjustment: Navigating Hormonal Shifts
In the first few weeks, you might experience an emotional roller coaster. Hormonal changes after childbirth can lead to mood swings, and many new parents experience what’s commonly known as the "baby blues." It is also common to have euphoric feelings in the days following a birth because of hormonal changes.
Baby Blues: These mood swings, which can include feelings of sadness, irritability, or anxiety, typically appear within the first 3-5 days after birth and may last up to two weeks. They are often related to the rapid hormonal changes and the adjustments you’re making.
Postpartum Depression: It’s important to distinguish between the baby blues and postpartum depression (PPD). If feelings of sadness or hopelessness persist beyond two weeks or interfere with your ability to care for yourself or your baby, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Therapy and support groups can be very beneficial in this case. If you think you might need support, feel free to reach out and I can help you find a therapist.
Anxiety: Many new parents experience anxiety about their baby’s well-being. It’s normal to worry, but if these worries become overwhelming or intrusive, speaking to a therapist or counselor can help.
Birth Experience- The birth experience you had can contribute to your level of anxiety and depression. If you had a traumatic or difficult birth, it is more likely that you will feel anxious or depressed. To read more about what birth trauma is, read here.
3. Your Baby's Development: Key Milestones in the First 6 Weeks
During the first six weeks, your newborn will undergo rapid growth and development. Here's what you can expect in terms of milestones:
Feeding: Newborns eat frequently—usually every 2-3 hours. Whether you’re breastfeeding or formula feeding, expect to spend a significant portion of your day feeding your baby. This can be exhausting, but remember, it’s normal. If you are breastfeeding, it’s really important to drink LOTS of water and eat a lot of nutritious food. If you are able to cook and freeze food before your baby is born, this can be helpful.
Sleep: Babies sleep a lot, anywhere from 16-18 hours a day, but in short bursts. Newborns are still adjusting to day-night cycles, so their sleep patterns may be unpredictable. It’s essential to sleep when you can, even if it’s just in short stretches. If you are noticing that you are unable to sleep even when your baby is sleeping, this may be a sign of birth trauma. To learn more, read here.
Reflexes and Motor Skills: Your baby will have strong reflexes in the first few weeks, such as the rooting reflex (turning toward the breast or bottle when their cheek is stroked) and the grasp reflex (clutching your finger). They will also start to have moments of alertness and may begin focusing on faces or objects around them. Getting to know your baby can be exciting!
4. Self-Care: Don’t Forget About You
While it’s easy to focus entirely on your baby, it’s crucial to take care of yourself too. Here are a few things to remember:
Accept Help: Don’t be afraid to lean on friends, family, or a partner for support. Whether it’s with household tasks or taking care of the baby, asking for help is a key part of postpartum recovery. If you have the means, I recommend hiring as much support as possible. For example, someone to clean the house or someone to hold the baby while you take naps. Some parents also like doing a meal train or hiring a meal service so they don’t have to worry about cooking.
Rest When You Can: Try to nap when your baby naps. Even short periods of rest can help you recharge. If your baby goes to sleep early, you may want to try learning how to go to sleep early as well.
Seek Support: If you’re struggling with emotional or physical challenges, consider reaching out to a therapist, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed or disconnected from your baby. There are also mommy and me groups, lactation consultants and other resources for new parents. Postpartum Support International has a hotline for new parents.
Body Image After Birth: It’s completely normal for new parents to feel a mix of emotions about their bodies after giving birth. Changes like weight gain, stretch marks, and shifts in body shape are common and they can affect how you feel about yourself. It’s important to remember that these changes are a natural part of the incredible journey of bringing a new life into the world. Embracing and accepting your post-baby body requires patience and self-compassion. Focus on how your body has nurtured and brought forth life, rather than on unrealistic expectations. I know this can be hard as there are so many societal ideals that are unrealistic about “bouncing back.” If you can, try to avoid comparing yourself to others or to pre-pregnancy images. Engage in positive self-talk, celebrate small milestones in your recovery, and remember that it’s okay to give yourself time to heal and adjust. Being gentle with yourself—and allowing space for emotional and physical recovery—will help you cultivate a healthier, more positive body image as you adjust to your new role as a parent.
5. The Role of Your Partner and Relationships During Postpartum
The postpartum period is an incredibly transformative time for both parents, and a supportive partner can make all the difference in helping new mothers navigate the physical, emotional, and practical challenges of early parenthood. How partners communicate, divide responsibilities, and provide emotional support can greatly impact the well-being of both parents and the relationship itself.
How to Support Your Partner
Emotional support is one of the most valuable gifts you can offer your partner during this time. A new parent is often dealing with a range of emotions, from exhaustion to feelings of inadequacy, and knowing they are not alone can be incredibly reassuring. Offer words of encouragement and understanding, and be patient with each other as you both adjust to new roles.
In addition to emotional support, sharing household responsibilities is crucial. Offering to take over chores, prepare meals, or help with other daily tasks can relieve a lot of pressure. This teamwork helps ensure that both parents feel supported and cared for, allowing the new mother to focus on rest and recovery. If you're not already involved in nighttime feedings or diaper changes, consider stepping in or discussing what would be helpful. Every small action counts and can strengthen the partnership during this overwhelming time.
Communication and Adjusting to the New Normal
Clear and consistent communication is imperative for maintaining a wellbeing during postpartum. Both partners should feel comfortable expressing their needs, concerns, and frustrations, especially if they are feeling overwhelmed or disconnected. Discussing feelings openly, without judgment, ensures that both parents are on the same page when it comes to managing responsibilities and addressing the emotional challenges of new parenthood.
Navigating Relationship Changes
The postpartum period can change the dynamics of a relationship. The physical exhaustion from sleepless nights and the emotional stress of caring for a newborn can strain even the strongest partnerships. It's common for couples to feel disconnected at times, especially when you may feel overwhelmed by the demands of parenthood.
However, this period can also be an opportunity to deepen emotional intimacy and strengthen your bond as a team. Make time for small gestures of affection, whether it's holding hands, sharing a quiet moment, or offering words of affirmation.
It’s also important to remember that relationships evolve, and this is a time for growth. Keeping the lines of communication open, continuing to show appreciation for each other, and making a conscious effort to prioritize your connection can help maintain a sense of intimacy. Don’t be afraid to seek professional support if you feel like your relationship is struggling. Couples therapy or communication coaching can be helpful in navigating this transitional time.
Conclusion: Navigating the First Six Weeks
The first six weeks postpartum are challenging but also full of significant milestones for both you and your baby. Recovery, adjustment, and bonding all take time. Also, it takes time to adjust to a new version of your relationship with your partner and yourself. Keep in mind that it’s okay to ask for help, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider if you have concerns.
By understanding what to expect, you can better manage this period and give yourself the grace you need to heal and adjust to your new life as a parent. Having as much support as possible can leave you freer to bond with your baby and that bonding is crucial. To understand more about attachment, read here.
Book a free consultation to explore how therapy can help you as you navigate the postpartum period.