Postpartum | Baylor Scott & White Health

What is postpartum?

The postpartum phase—sometimes called the “fourth trimester”—is the period after giving birth when your body and mind begin to recover and adjust to life with your new baby. The first three months are a critical time of healing and transition, but postpartum care extends well beyond those early weeks as you set the stage for good mental and physical health.

Your Baylor Scott & White OBGYN is your partner throughout this phase and can offer the comprehensive support and care you and your baby need.

Postpartum symptoms

Whether you had a vaginal birth or a cesarean section (C-section), your body needs time to recover after having a baby. Recovery can take six to eight weeks, but it may take a few months for your body to feel like it’s back to normal. Symptoms may be physical, emotional or a combination of both.

Physical symptoms

As your body heals, you may experience the following symptoms.

Afterpains: Abdominal pain, called afterpains, occurs as your uterus returns to normal size, often intensifying during breastfeeding. Heat can help relieve discomfort.
Constipation: Hormonal changes, medications and anesthesia can cause constipation. Drink water, eat fiber-rich foods and consult your doctor if you haven't had a bowel movement by day four postpartum.
Hair loss: Postpartum hair loss, caused by falling estrogen levels, usually starts three to four months after birth and resolves within 6–12 months. Avoid tight hairstyles and heavy hair products to reduce shedding.
Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids from pregnancy or pushing during delivery may cause pain and bleeding. They typically shrink over time, and fiber, water and over-the-counter creams can help.
Perineal soreness: Soreness in the perineum from tearing or an episiotomy can last a few weeks. Use ice packs, warm rinses and avoid long periods of sitting or standing for relief.
Postpartum swelling (edema): Swelling in your legs and feet is common due to water retention, lasting about a week. Elevating your feet can help.
Lochia (vaginal bleeding): Lochia, or postpartum bleeding, lasts up to six weeks. Use pads, not tampons, and contact your doctor if you pass clots larger than a quarter.

Virtual postpartum care

Get access to six months of online care and support to help you and your new baby get a healthy start. Our Postpartum Care program connects you with a dedicated nurse care advocate who provides guidance and resources and can help you access lactation consultants, pelvic floor physical therapists, mental health support and more.

Connect with postpartum specialists

Postpartum recovery

One of the most important things you can do for yourself after giving birth is to allow yourself time to rest and heal. While this may be easier said than done, getting rest allows your body and mind time to recover. Ask for help when you need it. This could mean limiting visitors, asking for help with childcare or asking for help with tasks like cleaning and making meals.

Other than resting, some of the other ways to take care of yourself in the weeks after delivery could involve:

Nutrition: Try to drink lots of water and eat healthy foods like lean protein, fruit, vegetables and whole grains. Staying hydrated can also help with constipation.
Caring for your perineal area: If you had a vaginal delivery, you may be sore for a few weeks. Your provider probably gave you some tips to help care for your bottom at home. Using a peri bottle with warm water to rinse after using the bathroom and using witch hazel pads are ways to help your bottom feel better.
Limiting physical activity: While you may want to return to your pre-pregnancy size, don’t rush to exercise or get back in shape. Your healthcare provider will let you know when it’s safe to exercise. Most people can begin walking or doing gentle movements a few days after giving birth. People who had a C-section birth may need to wait longer. Once you’re able to exercise, begin slowly so you don’t accidentally injure yourself.
Mental health support: Don’t be afraid to ask for help and be patient with your emotions. The postpartum period can be challenging in so many ways. If you feel sad, overwhelmed, anxious or stressed, talk to your partner, a friend or your healthcare provider about it. There are many resources available to support you.

Postpartum checkups

Your postpartum checkups give you and your OBGYN a chance to discuss physical and emotional symptoms, concerns and questions you have as you recover from childbirth. These visits also allow your OBGYN to monitor health conditions that developed during or shortly after pregnancy to ensure those conditions are managed well.

If you had high blood pressure during pregnancy, you may be seen in the first 48 - 72 hours after discharge, then at two weeks and six weeks postpartum. Otherwise, your first visit should be within three weeks after birth.

Stay on top of these postpartum visits and go even if you feel fine. Your OBGYN can offer valuable tips and advice about weight management, mental health, sexual health and many other concerns.

Find a location near you

You can find comprehensive postpartum care at Baylor Scott & White locations throughout North and Central Texas. If you experience mental health, breastfeeding or other parenting challenges, your OBGYN can refer you to a specialist or support service that meets your needs.

Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center - Fort Worth

1400 8th Ave , Fort Worth, TX, 76104

Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center - Fort Worth

1400 8th Ave , Fort Worth, TX, 76104

What is postpartum?

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