The female body is designed to do something incredible; giving birth is hands down one of the most rewarding-yet-physically challenging experiences you will ever have as a woman. While most women heal perfectly fine after having a baby with attentive care from their Obsterics doctor, some women make mistakes immediately after giving birth that put their health in jeopardy. Here is a look at some of the biggest mistales women make with aftercare after giving birth.
Not eating a healthy diet.
This is a huge thing, but many women forget how important it is that they follow good nutritional habits after childbirth. A lot of women assume if they are not breastfeeding after giving birth, their diet is not all that important, but really it is whether you are breastfeeding or not. Your body needs the proper nutritional support to heal and mend after having a baby, so you can't just jump into a strict diet to lose the baby weight or neglect eating healthy because you have no time with the new baby. It is for this reason that many OBGYNs will recommend that you continue to take your vitamins well after pregnancy has ended, but it is always best to get most of your nutrition from the foods you eat.
Not getting enough rest.
Bringing home a newborn is a huge life-changing event. Your sleep patterns will change, your body is on the mend, and just getting enough rest between feedings can be difficult. The worst thing you can do right after childbirth is become so sleep deprived that your body cannot heal correctly. If you have to ask for help just to get in a nap here or there, do it. Your body heals the most while you are at rest or sleeping.
Not knowing signs that something is wrong.
If you are a new parent, you will probably be a little surprised at how your body feels after you have a baby. Pain, bleeding, and fatigue is to be expected. However, there are some situations when these symptoms become more concerning, and you really should see your doctor. For example, if you are so fatigued that you cannot get out of bed, it could be a sign that something more serious is going on. Before leaving the hospital with your new baby, make sure you discuss with the doctor signs that you should look for that will tell you to seek medical attention.