What are some rules for a newborn and their mom to follow to feel as comfortable as possible?
The postpartum period is a time when a woman needs to pay special attention to her physical and emotional state.
In short, everything can be reduced to a few basic rules and recommendations that can help in recovery after childbirth, regardless of nationality:
Rest and recovery. Try to get enough rest and get adequate sleep whenever possible. A gradual return to physical activity is important, but don't overdo it.
Body care. Maintain personal hygiene, especially around the stitches (if there are any). Use gentle products and avoid aggressive procedures. Eating a balanced diet will help your body recover faster. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables and enough water.
Postpartum checkups. Regular check-ups - visits to the doctor for postpartum check-ups. It is usually recommended to make an appointment 6 weeks after delivery.
Psychological health. Emotional support is essential during this period, so don't hesitate to seek support from partners, family or friends. Discussing your feelings and experiences can be very helpful. However, if you are constantly experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression, if you feel prolonged sadness, anxiety or loneliness, seek professional help.
Physical Activity. Exercise with caution, moderate exercise can help with recovery, but start slowly and consult your doctor. Pelvic-floor* exercises, or pelvic floor muscle exercises, aim to strengthen and repair the muscles that support the organs in the lower pelvis. These exercises are especially beneficial for women, especially during pregnancy and after childbirth. Doing pelvic floor muscle strengthening exercises regularly can help you recover as quickly as possible.
Breastfeeding. Supporting breastfeeding is one of the most important aspects of a healthy newborn. If you plan to breastfeed, take care to create a comfortable environment. Seek help from a breastfeeding counselor if you have any difficulties.
Time for yourself. Make time for personal hobbies, make sure you make time for yourself, even if it's just 10-15 minutes a day.
* Basic aspects of pelvic-floor exercise:
Why do you need it?
Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles helps support the bladder, uterus and rectum.
Helps prevent or reduce problems with urinary incontinence.
Promote better sexual health.
Benefit
Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles makes childbirth and, more importantly, recovery afterward easier.
Helps improve muscle control, which can be helpful during labor and pushing.
How to execute?
Find a comfortable position: you can do the exercises lying down, sitting or standing.
Gradually contract and relax your pelvic floor muscles. Imagine you are trying to stop the flow of urine.
Hold the tension in your muscles for 5 to 10 seconds, then relax. Repeat 10 times.
Try to do these exercises several times a day.
Variety:
Exercises can be varied by performing them in different positions or using special equipment such as fitness balls.
Recommendations:
Start with a small number of reps and gradually increase the load.
If you have any pain or health problems, it is best to consult your doctor or physical therapist.
Pelvic floor exercises can significantly improve the quality of life for expectant and recent moms by keeping the pelvic floor muscles healthy and functional.
Listen to your body and don't hesitate to seek help when needed. Each case is different and it is important to find what works for you.
A brief overview of other important rules and guidelines that are often mentioned:
1. The Three Month Rule
Some cultures recommend a special regimen for the first three months after delivery. This time is necessary for the recovery of the mother and the adaptation of the newborn.
2. The Ten Step Rule
This includes basic tips for caring for your newborn: feeding regularly, keeping clean, creating a safe environment, etc.
3. The "Do Not Touch" rule (especially for guests)
After the baby is born, it is often advisable to limit the number of guests and not allow everyone to hold or touch the baby to avoid infection and stress.
4. Golden Hour
Immediately after delivery, the newborn should be in the mother's arms for the first hour. This maintains bonding and promotes breastfeeding.
5. NSV (present tense)
Moms are advised to rest at the same time as their newborns to recuperate and avoid overexertion.
6. Milk period
Doctors at our clinics advise against planning any serious business or stressful situations in the first six weeks after delivery, as this is a period of adaptation and recovery.
Each of these rules can vary depending on cultural and personal preferences, so it's important to listen to your feelings and consult with medical professionals.
The 5-5-5 rule in the postpartum period is a useful concept to support the health and well-being of the new mom. Although there are several interpretations of this rule, one of the most common formulations addresses the following aspects:
5 minutes. Set aside at least 5 minutes a day for yourself. This time can be used for a little meditation, breathing exercises, a walk, or just quiet relaxation.
5 days. After giving birth, try to be in a calm state for 5 days to give your body time to recover. This means less physical activity and more rest.
5 weeks. Try to avoid strenuous physical activity for 5 weeks after delivery. This period is important for the body to heal and recover from pregnancy and childbirth.
The 5-5-5 rule helps moms realize the importance of taking care of themselves in the postpartum period when they can focus on caring for their newborn. It emphasizes the need to pay attention to one's own health in order to be better able to care for one's baby.
The 15-day postpartum rule, also known as the "30-day rule" (or "mom in thirty days"), refers to postpartum recovery guidelines for women. It implies that for the first 15 to 30 days after giving birth, women should follow a specific regimen of taking care of their bodies and avoiding certain activities.
The main aspects of this rule are:
Resting regimen. It is important to allow the body to recover. In the first days after childbirth, it is better to avoid excessive exercise and stress.
Restriction of physical activity. For the first two weeks, it is recommended to refrain from strenuous physical activity, including heavy work and sports.
Health Care. This is a time when a woman should pay attention to her well-being, focusing on rest and recovery. Proper nutrition and hydration play a key role in this process.
Adherence to hygiene measures. Hygiene is particularly important to avoid infections, especially if surgical interventions (e.g. caesarean section) have been performed.
Supporting emotional well-being. Recovery can be an emotional process as well as a physical one. Support from your partner and family is essential.
Who's good for it?
This rule, like many other recommendations, can vary depending on the woman's health, the type of labor (natural or cesarean section) and other individual factors. Therefore, it is always a good idea to discuss recommendations with your doctor or obstetrician.
Following this rule can help ensure quality recovery and health for both mother and child.
The 40-day rule after birth, also known as the "near-birth period" or "postpartum period," is a traditional practice common in various cultures, including Brazilian.
This is a time during which mothers and newborns should receive special care and attention. The main aspects of this rule are:
Physical recovery. Mothers need recovery time after childbirth so that the body can return to normal. 40 days is considered the period during which a woman's body actively recovers.
Restriction of exertion. During this time, mothers usually avoid physical exertion, vigorous activity, and even some social interactions. This allows them to focus on caring for their newborn.
Improved bonding with the baby. This period provides an opportunity for the mother to take time to establish intimacy with the baby and to establish breastfeeding.
Nutrition and nursing. Mothers usually follow a special diet to keep their baby healthy and provide what they need through breast milk. This may include eating nutritious and easily digestible foods.
Support and assistance. Family and loved ones often provide the mother with support during this time to ensure that she is comfortable and able to take better care of herself and the new family member.
Every woman is unique, so it's important that adherence to this rule is based on her needs and health status.
Postpartum care is very important for a woman's recovery from childbirth and adjustment to her new role as a mother. five examples of aspects of postpartum care:
1. Physical rest and recovery. After giving birth, it is important for a woman to set aside time for rest and recovery. This includes getting a good night's sleep, minimizing stress, and being able to get help from loved ones in caring for the newborn.
2. Health monitoring. Regular health checks, including monitoring your uterus, stitches (if you had any), body fluid levels and general health. This includes a visit to your doctor 6-8 weeks after delivery.
3. Nutrition and hydration. Proper nutrition and adequate fluid intake are important for recovery and nourishment during breastfeeding. A woman is advised to eat healthy foods rich in vitamins and minerals.
4. Psychological support. The emotional state after childbirth can fluctuate. It is important to maintain open communication with loved ones and, if necessary, to seek professional help if symptoms of postpartum depression occur.
5. Newborn Care. Teaching how to care for the baby, including feeding, diaper changing, bathing, and sleeping routines. This may also include support for adjusting to breastfeeding if the woman chooses to do so.
These aspects will help the woman to recover and better cope with her new responsibilities. Taking care of yourself is an important part of caring for your newborn!
Physical Recovery.
Health monitoring. It is important to monitor the mother's health after delivery, including checking stitches (if there were any), blood levels, and general well-being.
Pain Management. Providing pain medication and pelvic care recommendations.
Psychological support.
Emotional support. Many women may experience postpartum depression. Support from family and professionals is important.
Tips for self-care. Help in recognizing changes in moods and feelings after childbirth.
Newborn Care Training.
Care Tips. Instructions on bathing, diaper changing, sleep regulation, and feeding your baby.
Health care. Informing about signs of illness in a newborn baby.
Breastfeeding.
Training and support. Help in learning breastfeeding techniques and solving possible problems such as sore nipples or lack of milk.
Help with household chores.
Support from family and friends. Having helpers can greatly ease the burden on a new mom, allowing her to focus on recovery and child care.
Next doctor's appointments.
Routine checkups. It is important to see your doctor for consultations and check-ups to ensure proper recovery.
Postpartum care plays a key role in ensuring the health of mother and child, helping to cope with physical and emotional changes, and facilitating adaptation to the new stage of life.