Greetings from the other side! I’m no longer pregnant, and what a relief it is! Never have I been so thrilled to have pushed a watermelon through a straw-sized opening. Let’s just say, no more pregnancies are in the cards for this household—tubes tied, snipped parts, and even our pets have been spayed or neutered.
I was four days overdue and had to practically plead with my OB for an induction (we even brought our checkbook just in case). Finally, our little Emma was born, much to the surprise of my parents’ housekeeper, who previously claimed my looks were suffering due to having a boy. Well, there’s that.
While I quickly remembered the responsibilities that come with a newborn, one aspect of childbirth I had cleverly blocked from my memory was the excruciating physical recovery that no one dares to discuss. So, let’s get real about what your body goes through after labor.
Breast Changes
Your breasts will undergo significant changes during pregnancy. If you typically wear an A-cup like I do, suddenly finding yourself in a D-cup can feel quite exciting. Enjoy the perkiness while it lasts, because when your milk comes in on day three postpartum, it’s a whole different ballgame. Welcome to “Engorgement Day,” where your milk supply skyrockets and never seems to stop. While this means you can nourish your baby, it also brings its own set of challenges. Imagine your breasts feeling as if they’re filled with rocks—it’s a painful reality.
For those who choose to bottle-feed, binding your overly full breasts with two sports bras and icing them can offer some relief. Avoid hand-expressing and warm water in the shower, which could encourage more milk production. The discomfort will subside after about a week, but you’ll definitely feel the ache when hugging or trying to sleep on your side. Remember, you are a warrior who has just brought life into the world.
Vaginal Recovery
Now let’s talk about your vagina. After enduring the rigors of childbirth, she deserves a medal. Unfortunately, she might feel like she’s been through a lawn mower. While conversations about labor often revolve around contractions and pushing, few discuss the fact that five minutes after delivering your miracle, your doctor may be busy stitching you up while you and your partner argue over baby names.
It’s essential to prepare for the possibility of tearing and the aftermath of stitches. A friend who had two C-sections once asked me what vaginal stitches feel like. I described it as thin layers of skin stitched tightly together, constantly trying to tear free with every movement. The pain is real, and no one gives you a heads up.
And while you’re tearing, the doctors acknowledge the pain, offering you an epidural to dull your senses. But once that wears off, you’ll be handed regular strength Tylenol and Advil as if they’re sufficient for your discomfort.
To ease the pain, use ice packs—fill a rubber glove with ice and keep it close. It may sound odd, but in that moment, it will be your best friend. Additionally, use the squeeze bottle provided by the hospital frequently to soothe your stitches with warm water.
Postpartum Challenges
Now, let’s not forget about your bum. Pregnancy and childbirth can lead to unexpected issues in this area as well. If you’re “#blessed” like I was, you might develop hemorrhoids during pregnancy. If not, pushing your baby out almost guarantees their arrival. This can make sitting and even pooping quite a challenge.
Here’s the best advice I wish I had received earlier: Start taking stool softeners several days before your due date. The pushing can lead to hemorrhoids, and the epidural can cause constipation. Trust me; you don’t want to struggle on the toilet in the days following childbirth.
So, there you have it: the unfiltered truth about what your body endures during and after childbirth. You may feel uncomfortable, experience bleeding and swelling, and even smell a little funky. But remember to be kind to yourself. You’ve spent nine months growing a human and then brought them into the world. You deserve to rest and recover.
Until next time, take care of yourself!
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Summary
The post discusses the often-unspoken realities of physical recovery after childbirth, including the changes to breasts, vaginal healing, and postpartum challenges like hemorrhoids and constipation. It emphasizes the importance of being informed and prepared for the recovery process while encouraging self-kindness during this challenging time.