What happens to the body during the postpartum period?
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The first one or two weeks after pregnancy is known as the postpartum period where the body adjusts itself to not being pregnant and starts healing. During this time, the new mother is likely to feel sore for a few days after the birth of the baby which is accompanied with extreme tiredness for some weeks. This can be more in the case of a cesarean birth. Adequate rest and proper care would ease the situation.
What type of food should you have during the postpartum period?
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Adequate nutrition is quite important during the postpartum period. You should consume food that contains all the essential nutrients, minerals, and vitamins which help your body to recover at a faster pace. You should include enough carbohydrates in your food so that you can get some energy as feeling tired is very common during this time. It is recommended not to focus on any particular food during the postpartum period rather concentrate on having a properly balanced diet.
Rest is essential during the postpartum period.
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It is imperative to take sufficient amount of rest during the postpartum period to regain back the energy since the lack of energy and tiredness are common in this situation. You should call in for the help of family members so that you need not have to all the work alone. You should avoid doing all the household chores during this time because you will feel more tired if you do so. Caring for the baby is the priority in this case which should be done at its best. You should try to sleep and take rest as and when the baby sleeps because at this point the baby does not have any particular sleep pattern.
Moderate exercising is good for postpartum care.
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Moderate to light exercise is very important for postnatal care and helps you to recover at a faster pace, but it should always be kept in mind that you should be gentle with yourself. Never try something which is too strenuous or vigorous. You can simply start by walking short distances and doing some simple exercises. It is recommended in this case to consult with your gynecologist and follow the ideal exercise routine.
You should restrict your fluid intake during the postpartum period.
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At this point, it is essential to take in a lot of fluids especially if you are breastfeeding which enhances the secretion of milk. You should also drink a lot of water which helps in the flushing out of the toxins from the body, and at the same time, it reduces swelling as well. The intake of additional amount of fluid increases the rate of healing in the postpartum period, and hence it is necessary.