What Moms Need to Know About the Postpartum Period By Avera
T
he blessing of a newborn baby is reason to celebrate, but some new moms may not realize the physical conditions that can accompany childbirth.
Even in a normal delivery, a woman’s body experiences a certain degree of trauma, which can lead to a number of treatable postpartum conditions: • Urinary issues and infection • Painful vaginal tears and injuries • Breast infection (mastitis) as well as other breastfeeding difficulties “One main idea all moms-to-be should realize is that their pregnancy and birth is unique – it’s not going to be like your best friend’s, your mom’s or your aunt’s delivery,” said Jacob Thomas, MD, Avera Medical Group OB/GYN specialist. “If troublesome symptoms occur, don’t hesitate to contact your provider. You don’t have to wait until your follow-up appointment.” One example is urinary tract infection happens in an estimated 2 to 4% of all deliveries. This can leave you with symptoms such as painful urination, cloudy or foul smelling urine, or difficulty emptying your bladder and can be quickly resolved with antibiotics. “It’s important to recognize and report symptoms like this right 50
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away, so we can get you on track to feeling better sooner than later,” Thomas said. UNDERSTANDING THE FOURTH TRIMESTER The months after your child’s birth, sometimes called the fourth trimester, are often spent getting to know your baby, but afterbirth care for moms is important. While the term “postpartum” often focuses on behavioral health issues related to depression and anxiety, pregnant women and new moms should not overlook the physical realities of this time after delivery. “Big changes come to a woman’s body when she gives birth, and postpartum wellness should be a big part of the care she receives,” said Avera Medical Group Urogynecologist Matthew Barker, MD. “If there are injuries or complications, we need to identify and treat them early, so they can get back to normal in a timely manner. Some of these problems show up right away, and others do not.” New moms who deliver by C-section usually have follow-up appointments about two weeks after delivery. That timeline is the same for patients who have more severe tears during vaginal births. Women who experienced a vaginal delivery without complications often see their OB provider about six weeks after the baby is born.
