The First Six Weeks: Here’s What Postpartum Really Feels Like

While there are many joys to be had after giving birth, the first six weeks with a newborn are also a time of intense changes. Not only have you added a new member to your family, but you are experiencing many physical and hormonal changes as well.

Don't believe it if someone tells you that you should bounce back quickly, and don't put undue expectations on yourself. It took nine months to get here. You can't expect your body to suddenly return to its pre-pregnancy state immediately following childbirth. What does the first six weeks postpartum really look like? Let's take a look.

You Will Still Look Pregnant

Did you know it takes around six weeks for your uterus to return to its normal size? Your uterus is usually the size of an orange. During the nine months of pregnancy, it grows to be watermelon-sized. Once your uterus has expanded, it takes time for it to shrink back to normal. Until then, your belly will have a bulge, even if you lose weight. You may experience some cramping for the first few days after birth as your uterus begins to shrink.

Note that after you give birth, you won't have the tight bowling ball-shaped tummy you had while pregnant. It will be softer, flabbier, and you may have some loose skin. Don't worry, this is completely normal. Although it will take your uterus six weeks to shrink, you may need several months to a year to get your muscle tone back and return to your pre-pregnancy shape.

You May Have the Baby Blues  

Combine sleep deprivation with fluctuating hormones and a tiny human that you are completely responsible for, and you are likely to end up with some intense emotions. Aside from physical changes to your body, you may feel socially isolated from your usual life. Staying home with a newborn when you are accustomed to working and socializing can make you feel lonely. During pregnancy, you may have had idealized visions of this time of your life, and you can feel let down when reality doesn't live up to what you had planned.

One of the best protections against postpartum depression is social support for new moms. Reach out to friends and family if you need help. It can also be life-changing to meet friends who are in the same stage of life as you are now. Look for local support groups for new moms. Many can be found online.

Also, the hospital where you gave birth may offer classes for new moms and babies. These can be a great source of information and a way to meet new friends who are going through the same thing as you are. However, if your symptoms seem more severe than the usual baby blues, be sure to reach out to your doctor or mental health professional for treatment options.

Your Feet May Get Bigger

Added weight gain, hormones, and fluid retention lead to swollen feet and ankles when you are pregnant. After giving birth, the swelling goes down, but for some, their feet remain a little bigger or wider. This is due to flattened arches during pregnancy from weight gain and also permanent ligament changes.

You Will Excessively Shed Hair

During pregnancy, higher levels of estrogen keep your hair thick and full. But when hormone levels return to normal, all that extra hair will shed. It may be alarming to see many strands of hair fall out as you shampoo or brush your hair, but it's perfectly normal. Experts say this hair loss is temporary, doesn't need to be treated, and should be back to normal within a year or less.

You May Have a Heavy Period

The vaginal bleeding you have after giving birth is called lochia. It will be heavy for a few days before it begins to lighten and taper off. How long it lasts is different for everyone. Some women may have light bleeding or spotting for up to six weeks postpartum. Note, if you have heavy bleeding that doesn't lessen or becomes more intense, seek medical help immediately. This could be a sign of postpartum hemorrhage.

You May Get Constipated

It is very common to experience some constipation after giving birth. Be sure to drink plenty of water, eat high fiber foods, and move around as much as possible. You may need to take over-the-counter medication for constipation for relief.

Swollen Breasts

Hormones and breastfeeding will cause your breasts to enlarge. Also, when your milk first comes in, your breasts may feel rock hard, which is called engorgement. It may be painful at first, but with frequent feedings, engorgement will lessen.

Leaky Bladder

Your pregnant uterus added a lot of weight to your bladder, and some women experience leaks after pregnancy. You can start doing Kegel exercises even before you give birth to help strengthen your pelvic floor.

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