Becoming a mother will change your body, your life, and most importantly, you. Although your body may never be the exact same, it will represent how strong you’ve become. Here are some of the many ways your body transforms after giving birth and what you can do to help!
Your breasts will get larger
If your breasts grew during pregnancy, get ready for them to become even larger post-pregnancy. Once you deliver, your body will send hormones signaling for your breasts to start producing milk. In the first few days, your breasts will create a highly concentrated and protein-dense milk called colostrum. This special type of milk provides your baby with the necessary nutrients they need to be healthy and develop their immune system.
As your body starts producing regular milk, your breasts will become enlarged and dense, which can be quite uncomfortable at times. Feeding your baby or pumping will offer you some relief, but you can also turn to ice packs to help ease the pain. During this time, you’ll also likely experience milk leakage, which is where reusable nursing pads come in handy.
Breastfeeding may keep you from getting pregnant again (or not)
If done consistently, breastfeeding will prolong the process of getting your menstrual cycle back. Usually, this means you’re protected from getting pregnant while breastfeeding, but that’s not always the case. Some women will get their period within a couple of months following pregnancy, while others may wait up to eight months. The length of time varies from woman-to-woman and can’t necessarily be pre-determined.
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It’s important to note that the effectiveness of breastfeeding as a means of birth control is only effective if the following factors are present: your baby must be six months or younger, you must breastfeed exclusively (no other foods), and nurse at least six times a day. If you don’t want to risk getting pregnant during this time, it’s important to discuss birth control methods with a doctor, such as an IUD or contraceptive pill.
Weaker pelvic floor
Pregnancy and labor can inflict a lot of pressure on your pelvic floor. This added pressure can weaken your pelvic floor, making incontinence (AKA bladder troubles) likely to occur. However, this is nothing to be embarrassed about as many women experience this post-pregnancy. Fortunately, you can help strengthen your pelvic floor with regular targeted exercises.
The first method is pelvic physical therapy. This entails the internal and external manipulation of the pelvic floor by a medical professional. While this may be uncomfortable, it can aid in reducing incontinence, alleviate sexual pain, and relieve constipation. Another useful technique is practicing Kegels. The great thing about this exercise is it can be done anywhere, at any time. It’s the practice of contracting and strengthening your pelvic floor and should be done at least three times a day for best results.
You’ll need to stock up on maxi pads
Not only will you possibly experience incontinence right after childbirth, but you can also anticipate bleeding. It can be heavier after birth than you may have expected, so stocking up on maxi pads will keep you prepared. Between blood, discharge, and uterine tissue, you’ll likely need to wear pads for six weeks post-delivery. From there, it should begin to lighten up so you’ll only need to use them when necessary.
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It’s important to not wear a tampon during this time as they can introduce bacteria into the vagina as you heal. If you’re struggling with soreness post-delivery, try opting for ice maxi pads. These work as a dual pad because they are absorbent and offer cold therapy for pain.
Hair may start shedding
A benefit of pregnancy for many women is thicker, fuller hair. This is due to your body’s increase in estrogen, which can stimulate hair growth. Still, after pregnancy, you may start to notice your hair falling out more excessively in the months ahead. This abrupt change in your hair cycle is why many women struggle with postpartum hair loss, but it’s not all that bad.
The good news is this hair loss is only temporary. By the time your child is having their first birthday, your hair should be back to normal. During this period, you can use products or techniques to help keep your hair full and healthy. From the way you style it to the shampoo and conditioner you use, these factors can make a huge difference in the appearance of your hair.
Stretch marks
Stretch marks develop as a result of rapid growth or stretching of the skin. The skin only has so much elasticity, so if it’s overstretched, it can disrupt the skin’s production of collagen. Although you may not love your stretch marks, they’re nothing to be ashamed of and many women develop these from pregnancy.
Luckily, over time, stretch marks will lighten and fade. This is especially true if you use scar creams to expedite the process. Still, if you get pregnant again they may become more pronounced. For more information on how to reduce the appearance of your stretch marks, look here.
