Most of the time these postnatal changes are normal and can be managed with medication and comfort measures, but in a few situations complications may develop.
Afterwards, the endocrine system shifts from producing hormones that prevent lactation to ones that trigger milk production.
[4] Information can be provided to the mother before the birth to enhance the understanding of breastfeeding and the support that will be available to make it successful.
[5] The mother is encouraged to breastfeed and spend time bonding with her infant immediately after the birth.
Sucking causes the pituitary gland to release oxytocin, which contracts the uterus and prevents bleeding.
[9] The sensation and strength of postpartum uterine contractions can be stronger in women who have previously delivered a child or children.
[11] During pregnancy the normal inflammatory immune response is shut down in order to allow the acceptance of the embryo to the body.
[12] Education and discussion before the birth can alleviate some of the fear of the unknown and the anxiety when treatments are experienced for the first time.
Perineal pain after childbirth has immediate and long-term negative effects for women and their babies.
[15] Comfort is enhanced with changing linens, urination, the cleaning of the perineum and ice packs.
Pain control and comfort can be managed by anticipating the return of sensation and bodily reactions to bruises, tears, incisions and punctured sites.
They have identified that vital signs of blood pressure, and pulse, uterine position, and bleeding should be assessed every 15 minutes for the first two hours after birth.
This is to guard against postpartum infections, previously known as childbed fever or puerpal sepsis, one of the main causes of maternal mortality.
The care during the early postpartum period often continues when the patient returns home.
A 2023 systematic review found that blood pressure monitoring at home appears to increase patient satisfaction while reducing hypertension-related hospital admissions.
[2] Other foods or substances are not recommended postpartum if breastfeeding because they may have effects on the baby via breastmilk.
Consumption of oily fish like haddock, herring, sardines, grouper, and tuna may need to be limited due to pollutants.