Postpartum Archives - The Motherly Heap

NICU Must-Haves for Moms: 20 Items To Bring

Jordan N. — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 16:21:19 +0000

You are about to leave the house, and you head to the hospital where your precious preemie is. Make sure you have your packed bag with all the must-haves for NICU moms. Spending most of your hours inside the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit aside from being worried, you can also feel different, maybe aching, and sometimes lonely. Your preemie baby may be your primary focus during visits; you might forget to bring the essentials for you to survive those NICU hours. I’ve been where you are right now. We may not have the same journey, but I was also the mom who sat on that recliner chair and spent as much time as I possibly could with my preemie daughter (12 weeks early). Sometimes, it was only me visiting. My husband works full-time, and my son goes to school. So it became my routine to go to the NICU right after dropping off my son in school. There are times we all visited at night or when my husband was also off. But during my NICU time, I am thankful I have these things in my NICU mom bag that I consider my NICU mini lifelines. So through listing them here, I’m hoping it helps someone be as comfortable as you go through NICU life. **This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase from the product links, I may earn a commission from your purchase. There’s no extra cost to you if you decide to click and buy. Thank you for your continued support of this blog. Full Disclosure** 20 NICU Must-Haves for Moms 1. Lip balm You may experience dry, cracked lips because of the hospital air. Carry a lip balm in your bag, and remember to use it every couple of hours or after drinking/eating. 2. Notebook/Journal I carried my little blue notebook in my NICU bag, along with a pen. It helped me write down all my daughter’s health updates and medicines. It also became a pumped milk ounces tracker and breastfeeding session time tracker. Your preemie’s weights, vital signs, and any progress you want to document – you can write them down. You may also use your notebook to journal your feelings or thoughts at that time of the visit. Writing may help you lessen the stress and worry you are experiencing as a NICU mom. 3. Pumping bra There are plenty of pumping bras out there. Pick quality and practical design over any other specifications. I got some strapless bras, and here they are from the brand Kindred Bravely. You can check out these pumping bras if you’re looking for one yourself. 4. Breastfeeding top or pumping accessible top I couldn’t help but be thankful for tops designed for moms who pump or breastfeed their babies. Aside from the modesty of the top so you won’t get exposed, it gets highly rated for the practicality that makes pumping and breastfeeding much easier for any mom. 5. Insulated Tote Since pumping for preemies can come before you can directly breastfeed your baby, it’s great to invest in an insulated tote to carry around freshly pumped breast milk or frozen ones. Make sure it lasts longer to keep your breastmilk safe and not get wasted. 6. Water Bottle Let’s get real: a pumping or breastfeeding mom will need more fluids than ever before. To replenish your body’s water needs, you don’t want to get dehydrated and feel dizzy when you don’t drink fluids enough to keep up. So have your water bottle close by. 7. Hand Cream You will be washing your hands a lot when you stay in the NICU. So it’s helpful to have a hand cream handy to prevent cracked hands. 8. Hair Ties / Headbands When you’re holding your baby skin-to-skin, you want your hair out of the way and not touching your baby. Bring a pack of hair ties to keep your hair in place. Headbands are also helpful to get the hair out of your face. 9. Sterilizing bags You can use these sterilizing bags to keep your pumps clean and sanitize while you pump in the NICU. However, you want to make sure that these bags are microwave safe; it’s dangerous when it gets melted in the microwave along with your pump parts. If you don’t have any of these bags, it’s okay – NICU staff will provide you with approved cleaning liquid to wash your pump parts and bottles. Of course, bring your needed pumping parts and extra bottles for NICU use. You may be renting or using the hospital-grade pump at this time. 10. Robe If you can bring a comfy robe to your NICU visits, that would be perfect for when you need to pump, and you get cold. Drape one over you, and the problem is solved. You may also use it when it’s skin-to-skin time with your preemie baby. Easy access, and it covers you during the session. 11. Nursing pillow The pillow is to help you reposition when breastfeeding your preemie. They’re tiny, and you may need extra support to get them to latch and stay comfortable throughout the feeding session. It was helpful for me during our nursing sessions in the NICU and at home. Do not leave or prop your baby on the pillow unattended if you continue to use the pillow at home. 12. Something to read or to do It could be a book, kindle, or a tablet for easy reading. There are times when your baby will stay in the isolette more than being held. You want to have something for you to do while spending time with her. You can read to your baby or enjoy reading for yourself. There’s plenty to choose from which book collections or genre you can start with. Plus, if you just want to hang out and listen to music with your earbuds on, then do so. 13. Snacks Quick and grab snacks you can munch in between NICU breaks. After you go to the bathroom, get lunch or get fresh air. Make sure you carry your mini snacks to help you keep going in between main meals. Choose something that helps with energy. 14. Coins and dollar bills Get a small purse to carry your coins and small bills. You may need those changes when you pass by a vending machine or need something to drink besides water. 15. Extra swaddle blankets or scent loveys You know, when you go home, the nurse may offer to give you something that your baby has used and has their scent on. For example, smelling your baby’s scent on the blanket can help you connect with your baby when you’re pumping at home. 16. Your phone and charger (long cord) You won’t be using your phone during kangaroo or breastfeeding. However, during the in-betweens, you may need to look up something on the internet or call your spouse or someone if you need anything. So, while we are in this number, why not throw in a pair of earbuds for you to use. 17. Mini postpartum supplies You are still healing from giving birth. So, in a small pouch, carry some nipple pads, cream, sanitary pads, etc. Also, wear abdomen support (for CS mama). Have these items to help you while visiting your baby in the NICU. 18. Masks and sanitizers The hospital will have these items on hand. However, it’s still great to make sure you have your own, which you can use anytime and don’t have to ask the staff. Sanitizers are everywhere in the NICU. Every corner, every isolette, will have one. So, small pocket sanitizers aren’t a hassle to have for your personal use. With COVID-19 still pretty much around, there may be changes to the NICU visitation policy. Ensure to check with the hospital on limitations and what’s allowed. Follow protocols for preventing the spread of Covid-19. 19. Camera We snap pictures with our phones most of the time. Yet, having a small, reliable digital camera you can carry is a good bonus when you need more photos and videos to remember your NICU journey. It’s easy to transfer those precious captures, create collages in your NICU scrapbook, or compile videos for your NICU journey. 20. Mama Bag Your bag to carry it all. Hahaha. Make sure you choose the ones that fit your needs. If you’re looking for spacious and sturdy bags for all your NICU must-haves for moms, I can recommend a mom bag/diaper bag. NICU Resources for Parents: Getting it all packed These were the must-have items I had during our NICU journey; it gets replenished, washed, stocked, and cleaned every day. These items might not be what you’ll bring every visit. But, having them on hand as to when you need them and anticipating that need will make it easier for you and your NICU stay. Your baby may stay for a short while or may remain in the NICU for a few months; know that you’re doing your best. Let this list guide you in preparing to visit the NICU and for the long days to come. Each NICU mama story is different, so change or add to the list what you think you’ll need. Tell me what else you would add to the NICU moms’ must-haves. Share something that helped during your NICU stay with your baby. What would you bring to the NICU that’ll keep you comfortable while visiting?

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Tips for a Struggling NICU Mom: Surviving the NICU Life

Jordan N. — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 00:20:46 +0000

It’s heartbreaking and harrowing having a premature baby in the NICU. But as reality hit me that my baby would stay in the hospital and not come home with me – I became a NICU mom. In this post, I will be sharing tips on how you can survive the NICU life as a struggling mom. I never expected the day our daughter was born; I would also become a member of the NICU parents club. I’d never thought I would be in this challenging situation. The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) life from any parent’s perspective is frightening. Even though I am a nurse by calling, nothing could have prepared me for the long nights and terrifying months inside the NICU life. It was hard. It was nerve-wracking and painful seeing our daughter born 12 weeks early in an incubator with all the wires attached to her tiny body. Being a mama came first, and it was hard witnessing how our baby could have been growing still in my womb. It was a mixed emotion of disbelief, guilt, numbness, anxiety, and fear. Who wouldn’t? NICU moms’ different emotions appear in this trying time – NICU time is brutal to parents (new ones or not). The NICU nurses were encouraging and supportive – that my situation will ease up soon and for me to stay strong. I’m confident they were trying to help me feel a bit better and calm. The first six weeks were difficult for my husband, our six years old son, and me. I couldn’t bear to see our son cry, knowing he had lost a sister a year before and now his other sister might not come home. That memory breaks my heart a hundred million times. My husband had to balance NICU visits, our son, his work, and with me battling postpartum anxiety. Yet, through God’s grace – we all thrived in our new everyday – life with a baby in the NICU. Find your rhythm as a family in these life-changing weeks or even months. It will be hard and trying. Here are tips to survive the NICU life, even as a struggling mom. 1. Take care of your basic needs. Sleep isn’t even on any NICU moms’ radar, but try to get some rest and enough sleep as possible. Also, eat a well-balanced diet and hydrate well to nourish yourself, especially if you’re pumping breastmilk for your premature baby. You are recovering from birth and healing during this postpartum period as well. I know it’s hard not to take in too much, especially juggling home and NICU life. But, if you had a C-section, your C-section wound is still fresh, new, and possibly painful – take it easy. 2. Engage in self-care activities that help you recharge in and out of the NICU. Find time to nurture yourself, even just for a couple of hours. You could read a good book while you sit by the isolette. If you knit as a hobby, you can incorporate a cute hat or booties for your baby. Find something that makes you happy and boosts your spirit. Take a short walk around the hospital garden. Spend time with your spouse/significant other. 3. Familiarize yourself with the routine in the NICU. When they check on your baby, doctor rounds, healthcare team meetings, primary baby care, feeding times, and kangaroo care time, when possible, be an active caregiver of your baby. As simple as taking your baby’s temperature or helping change how they are positioned. 4. Ask questions from your nurses and doctors assigned to your baby. They can explain what you didn’t understand or know. Don’t hesitate to clarify before deciding on any medical plans and treatments. You get to decide what happens to your baby regarding procedures and other NICU care. However, in an emergency event, you may not have a long time to decide. Therefore, they will need an immediate answer from you. Your NICU team will do whatever they can to help your baby if you aren’t around or unable to reach you to decide on emergency care. You may also be asked ahead of time about your wishes when a life-threatening event happens. 5. Reach out for support: Family and friends Other NICU parents NICU community support – NICU Helping Hands; Hand To Hold or March of Dimes NICU Family Support Church support groups You can lean on them for moral and spiritual support. Also, relatives/trusted friends/sitters can keep your other children occupied if medical procedures are scheduled for your NICU baby. 6. Document your NICU stay. You can journal about anything, about your baby, milestones, parent-healthcare team conferences, or your thoughts/emotions. If allowed, you can take pictures of your baby or you with your baby (newborn care, skin-to-skin, or feeding times). 7. Spend time with your other children. Reconnect with them between the NICU and home. It can be difficult for children to navigate the NICU routine and see their baby sibling’s condition. Being with your children can strengthen you as well as them. Ask them about their school and other activities. Spending time with them in these confusing times can help ease their worries and anxieties. RELATED POST: Helping a Sibling of a NICU Baby Adjust 8. Do this together with your spouse/significant other. It can be challenging when a spouse is working outside the home. Likewise, it’s challenging when your schedules might not meet up. However, you can readjust your visiting times together and sometimes alone. Also, don’t forget to open up with each other; communication is essential to stay connected. Finally, lean on each other; you both are taking this NICU journey together. My husband would visit our daughter in the NICU around 9 pm, and I stayed at home with our son. Then I would stay in the NICU all day while our son was at school. Then, we would visit or schedule it when he was off when our son came home from school, and we all went together. Ultimately, do what works for your family. 9. If you are religious, prayer can strengthen you. Get encouraged through the words of God and His promise. Let this experience strengthen your faith. You may have doubts and may even feel angry about what’s happening. You have every right to feel what you are feeling throughout this trying time. Also, you know what you can handle. Take the promise of His refuge, His perfect love. 10. If you are having trouble coping beyond what you can handle. Talk to a licensed therapist. Your doctor can refer you to a healthcare provider who can assist you in addressing your mental health needs. Reach out for help; the NICU social worker can also help you with the resources you need. 11. Breast Milk is recommended nutrition for NICU babies (Premature/Sick Newborns). That also means a pumping schedule for you. Your milk as a Preemie Mom may not come right away. At first, it’ll be just a few drops or milliliters, but as NICU nurses said – any amount of mama milk is gold. So stay with your pumping routine. These routines will be every 2 hours a day and every 3 hours at night. Ask for help if you are having lactation issues from nurses/lactation consultants. Pumping milk was the only thing I could do to help my baby and contribute. It encouraged me more to do what I could. However, suppose you are breaking down and having difficulty coping with everything after exploring every lactation solution. Please know that it’s okay to choose not to struggle anymore. It’s okay to use donated breastmilk or even the unique formula for NICU/Premature babies. Please don’t blame yourself for this challenging experience and not pumping your milk. Regardless of how your NICU baby is fed, your baby needs to get the nourishment they need. 12. Do skin-to-skin (Kangaroo Care) with your premature baby. This method is proven to help with the baby’s development, stabilizes the baby’s heart rate and breathing, and more. For moms, it lowers stress, increases bonding, improves your milk supply, and more. Every kangaroo time is a blessing to every NICU mom and provides many benefits to the baby. These cuddles were most precious to me. It also allowed my husband to hold our daughter and comfort her. Our son was able to be around her during these skin-to-skin times as well. Those are the NICU life survival tips for a struggling NICU Mom. One day at a time, Mama. As you walk in your NICU journey, know that you are not alone. Help is available for you and your spouse. Then, finally, the day will arrive when you can welcome your sweet baby home with you. Are you a mom with a little one in the NICU? I’m hoping this post is helpful as you navigate NICU life. I’d also love to hear from other NICU moms who have been there. Do you have other helpful tips to add to help another struggling NICU mom? September is the National Neonatal Intensive Care Awareness Month

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A Complete Guide to Postpartum Care Plan for New Moms

Jordan N. — Sat, 28 Aug 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Mama, are you feeling anxious about your upcoming birth? You probably have a birth plan in place already; that’s great! As new moms also prepare for post-delivery, what about adding a plan for your postpartum care? Getting ready for Homecoming Day can bring up concerns about your time of healing and transition. Have you ever thought about your specific plans to recover at home? New moms can focus on healing, recovery, and bonding at home once the postpartum recovery plan is in place. Who wouldn’t plan for their post-delivery recovery? After a significant medical event, it’s helpful to have at least an outline regarding your postpartum care. Although any birth is unpredictable, you can be adaptable regarding your plans during your postpartum period. This care plan acts as a guide for you, your recovery on what you can expect, and tells your support system what your wishes are. New moms can make a postpartum care plan ahead of time, understand why they need one, and write down the structure of their recovery plan at home. What is a Postpartum care plan? The postpartum care plan guides or outlines your postpartum expectations and strategies to have a smooth transition at home. In addition, it’s a document that can describe your wishes as a recovering mom. It states who is involved in your immediate hospital care and home care. Also, who’s in your baby’s care team. It covers everything from feeding, personal support, navigating work, and other adjustments regarding your postpartum period. Why do New Moms need to create a postpartum care plan? It helps you set up your healthcare team and your baby’s It promotes preparedness on your part and your spouse Guides you to what you’ll be needing when it comes to healing Acts as a reminder when things get overwhelming at home Lessens some anxiety through planning ahead It helps you transition into parenthood Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Unsplash What is included in building your recovery plan at home? Your New Role Becoming a new mom is a beautiful experience. However, you might hear from other moms that it’s tiring and exhausting; there’s no denying those as well. You will go through a tremendous change within your body, hormones, emotions, thoughts, and overall well-being. In addition, you’ll be responsible for your baby and their needs. Knowing postpartum expectations will help you prepare for these new parenthood transitions. It is a massive leap from being responsible only for yourself to extend that responsibility to your newborn baby. Your Healing Time You’ll use your energy taking care of your baby while you heal. You may even forget that you also need to take care of yourself as a new mom. Give yourself ample time to heal physically and emotionally. You can read about being a First-Time Mom in this post that shows what to expect as a new mom. Feeding plans When you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding – the choice of feeding your newborn falls on moms. However, nourishing your baby will be included in your birth plan and shared with your birth team. Your desire to breastfeed your newborn will outline how you want it to happen. When you’re at home, you continue to breastfeed your baby and address any lactation issues or baby concerns timely. Moms also have the choice to bottle-feed with pumped breast milk or formula. Whatever the circumstance preceding your decision to bottle-feed is entirely up to you. You may even begin with bottle-feeding with pumped milk at first, as is the case for many NICU moms, and when the premature baby comes home, you resume breastfeeding your baby. Or you may breastfeed at first, and have personal/health reasons you switch on bottle-feeding (pumped milk/formula) – it all comes down to what you decide. This plan also includes pumping breastmilk at work if you choose to do so. In addition, you may contact your boss when your Maternity Leave is about to end regarding accommodations for expressing milk during your break hours. Sleeping Arrangements for Baby Have you thought about where the baby will be sleeping? For example, will it be in your bedroom with a small cot next to the bed? Or will your baby be sleeping in a nearby room after a few weeks/months? This decision planning of where baby sleeps will probably change as soon as you get adjusted in the few weeks. Whatever works for you and your baby, as long as you follow a safe baby sleep method. Photo by Tuva Mathilde Løland on Unsplash Post-delivery Care Plan for New Moms includes a Postpartum Recovery Kit It’s great to have a plan when it comes to your postpartum recovery. Therefore, you need the bare essentials to promote your healing and improve comfort as you transition into your new role – MOM. Check out this postpartum recovery Kit for a C-section Mom. Also, here’s a New Mom Care Package for yourself to promote self-care. If you had a C-section, you might want to know how to care for your C-section Wound and prevent infection. Make sure you have the supplies you need at home. You don’t want to be trying to remedy any postpartum issues without any of the needed items on hand. For example, for nipple cream for cracked nipples or stool softeners, you can create a personalized postpartum care basket at home. Parenting Roles: You are communicating your plans in handling baby care. You are the primary caregivers of your baby as new parents. Mom may do most of the baby care during the day as dad may be working. Then Dad will take on night care every time the baby wakes up. Or help you out with diaper changes before a feeding session. Plan what you think will work for your schedule. Your newborn will have their schedule; adjusting and being flexible will help with your parental arrangement. Meal Plans: Are you going to prepare a couple of weeks’ worth of meals? Will you accept a food train coming from relatives and friends? Are you going to be ordering out for the first week home? It’s great to plan so as not to overwhelm yourself with meal planning and cooking while you recover from birth. Once you got that meal preparation, you can quickly reheat the meals up. Visitors Handling: Your postpartum period is a crucial time for the mom, the baby, and the immediate family. Every culture is different as you go through the fourth trimester. New moms may want to spend these couple weeks with just the three of you. You are recovering from delivery and learning about your newborn together. Moms may prefer a close relative (your mom or anyone you trust) to be around you and your new family to help you adjust for a week or a month. Well-meaning visitors may ask to see you and the baby right after you get home. Make plans for what you are comfortable with. Talk with your spouse – how you’ll handle visitors from each side of the family, friends, and even co-workers. You must talk about this topic ahead of time so that when the time comes, there’s a clear line to what you’ll accept and not tolerate. It will also depend on how you are recovering. For example, you may have complications during your delivery, or your baby may need close monitoring of their health. So, conveying your wishes is important as not to step on anyone’s toes or feelings. The important thing is what you prefer; YOU – who’s healing, bleeding, breastfeeding, and more. Your comfort and preference are what matters here. So for husbands, make it about your spouse, your new baby, and your new growing family. Be her number one recovery advocate. Photo by Yagi-studio from Getty Images Signature Postpartum Team: These people are part of your postpartum team: OB/Gyn doctor, Nurse, Lactation Consultant, Care Coordinator, and Primary Care Doctor. Getting in touch with your healthcare team is a great way to keep a smooth recovery at home. Make sure that you set up your appointments before you leave the hospital. Also, if you plan on breastfeeding, you may want to continue to see the lactation specialist after you are discharged from the hospital. Keep those contact numbers together with your records. I also mentioned Care Coordinators/Case managers because they can be a great ally in getting the resources you might need at home. Discuss your current needs before you go home and then follow up as needed. Your nurse will also teach you warning signs/symptoms to watch for at home, medications, newborn care, and other discharge instructions. Your primary care doctor plays a role in your postpartum recovery. For example, suppose you have underlying conditions (diabetes, hypertension, etc.) before or after delivery. In line with that, you may want to follow up with them as well for disease management. Baby Team: Pediatrician, Pediatric Nutritionist, Nurse As far as I remember, I had to set up appointments with recommended pediatricians with my babies. So I asked for referrals from my OB doctor for a list of known pediatricians with good standing. Around seven months, I met with these pediatricians by appointment. I asked them questions about babies, check-ups, and their practice. It’s almost like interviewing the pediatrician and choosing which ones are a fit for your family. Even though you have decided on the doctor for your baby, there may be changes that’ll arise. Such circumstance includes: Babies born prematurely. High-risk babies. Babies who are sick when born. Other health-related issues. Or, if you and your baby’s current pediatrician don’t see eye to eye or are not a good fit, then you can change your baby’s doctor. When my daughter was born prematurely, I went with the pediatrician for premature babies assigned to her when she was almost discharged. There were neonatologists in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Still, those are the ones who are in-patient doctors that are designated for specialized NICU baby care. NICU nurses are healthcare professionals who care for newborns who are born prematurely or ill. Their support for new moms is tremendous. If you have a NICU baby, they’ll be the ones who will care for your baby closely until discharge. Postpartum Appointments for Mom and Baby: You will have your first postpartum check-up with your doctor, which will be the initial visit after the delivery of your baby. Be sure to get your questions written down, bring up any issues in recovering at home, and ask for help if you’re struggling. As for your baby, newborn visits will be frequent for the first month. It will be checking up on growth and development, feeding and concerns, overall adjustment at home, and more. It’s also good to have your questions regarding your baby written down so you won’t forget to bring up any concerns. Mental Health Support for New Moms as part of your postpartum care plan: New moms are at high risk of experiencing emotional and mental health challenges. It’ll be the time to set up a plan for when you or your spouse thinks you may need additional support with your mental wellness. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you are struggling with postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety. There are licensed therapists and mental health professionals who can help you navigate your condition. Ask for a referral from your doctor for a postpartum evaluation with a licensed mental health provider. For all emergencies, call 911. Seek assistance from NAMI Helpline Photo by psphotograph from Getty Images Pro Rounding up your support system as a New Mom: Besides your spouse, you get to select the most trusted persons in your circle to provide support throughout this critical period of healing and adjustment. When you open up yourself to ask for help, be mindful of how people react to your established boundaries around this postpartum period. You need people who respect your wishes, you don’t need added stress to fend off, and you need genuine support from them. Extend adequate consideration to yourself when help is offered. You don’t have to do this alone. Whether you need...

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Postpartum Kit for a C-section Mom

Jordan N. — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 22:13:00 +0000

Undergoing major surgery such as a C-section poses recovery challenges for moms at home. Having a postpartum care kit in your fourth trimester can help you recover as a C-section Mom. This article talks about postpartum challenges you may face as you heal and bond with your baby, along with the postpartum products to help you. As a C-section Mama myself, assembling my recovery care kit helped me prepare ahead of time, helped me stay organized, and got me into a healing state mindset. It’s great to have handy essential items for your optimum healing and recovery. Let’s tackle it from the ground up – the items that can help you heal from C-section. **This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission when you click the product links and purchase from those links at no extra cost to you. The information in this post is for general purpose use only. This information cannot be used as a substitute for medical or other healthcare advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your doctor regarding your health and recovery. See full disclosure.** Postpartum Care Kit for a Mom with C-section Birth Compression Socks Compression socks help with swelling and blood flow on your legs and feet. But, how are they going to help you at home? When you undergo surgery, you will have extra fluids in your body. Waking up in your hospital room feeling swollen and unable to walk because your feet are poofed up, these socks can help decrease the swelling and discomfort. These socks also help prevent blood clots from forming in your legs. Remember those squishy pump devices (called SCDs – sequential compression devices) around your calves during your hospitalization? That was to help you decrease the risk of developing blood clots. Walking is one of the most critical activities after surgery and even being home from the hospital. Make sure you have the proper size fit compression socks. Your nurse may provide you a pair of those white knee-high surgical stockings. Wear them as recommended. Sanitary Pads Moms can include this postpartum item in their care kit – being a C-section Mom; you’ll still have the expected postpartum discharge. You’ll also have some vaginal discharge from the lining of your uterus shedding. It has to come out somewhere. Hence, postpartum pads are a must. C-section Undies Who would have thought to buy these beauties? I had never heard of these before when I had my son a decade ago. Maybe they were on the market already but weren’t on my mom radar. These helped with my second C-section. Finding underwear that doesn’t irritate your C-section wound, especially the first two weeks, is necessary. Look for high-waisted coverage for maximum comfort like these. Scar Balm (Use only when cleared by your doctor) Once your C-section wound has closed and healed, you can start using this specially formulated balm. As a reminder above, make sure that you already saw your doctor/surgeon and received clearance to use this balm on your healed wound. What this C-section balm does, helps reduce the appearance of scars. Although you may not need it as you recover for the first four weeks, it’s good to have it handy. Hemorrhoid creams Indeed, you may not experience hemorrhoids during C-section. However, changes to your hormones can contribute to hemorrhoids forming during the third trimester. You may not be aware or not feel them at all. Yet, when constipation happens, that’s when moms first have discomfort or sharp pain around their bottom. Having them included in your recovery care kit can give you peace of mind that it’s available whenever you may need them. Stool Softeners Speaking of moving your bowels, here come stool softeners. The surgery itself can slow down your gut movement. In addition, anesthesia from your surgery can add to your risk of having constipation in the hospital or at home. Why do you think you’re going to be given a stool softener every night during your hospital stay? It’s to prevent constipation and help you poop. So, be prepared at home with these capsules to help you with bowel movements. The key here is to take them as directed by your doctor. The first week you may be prescribed to take a dose at night until your regular pattern returns. Ask your doctor for a specific frequency of taking this medication, even if moms can buy it over-the-counter. Peri-Bottle Wash This wash bottle will come in handy when you need to use the restroom. If you have hemorrhoids, this can be an additional helpful item to ease discomfort. Unless you have a toilet bidet installed already, this peri-bottle is the next best thing. Abdominal Binder Recovering from C-section and moving about at home can be challenging. Grab this abdominal binder to help you get around at home. It helps keep everything supported when you get out of bed, sitting down, and walking. This postpartum item was a life-saver for me when I got myself around and drove back/forth to visit my daughter in the NICU. You may already have received one from the hospital; continue to use it as directed. You can purchase this one for a backup in case you need to wash the soiled one. Comfy Pants You may want to continue to wear comfy loungewear or pajamas when recovering from C-section. This postpartum loungewear is perfect for comfort and non-irritating to your C-section wound. You can get this before having your C-section and can wear these pants wear around your third trimester. Related Post: Your Postpartum Checkup After A C-section and What To Expect For C-section Mamas who plan to breastfeed their babies: Nursing Gowns and Tops You may want to wear nursing gowns or nursing tops, whichever you prefer for ease of breastfeeding, comfortable wear, or worn for an outing with a baby. There are many selections: nursing tops, sleeping wear, postpartum gowns, and nursing dress. Nursing Bras and Pumping Bras Having a good nursing bra to support your breastfeeding journey is crucial to have. Pick the ones that you can wear comfortably during the day and even wear while sleeping. If you plan to go to work and pump, a great pair of pumping bras are a must-have for working moms. Pumping flanges are easier to maneuver when I used pumping bras; I don’t have to hold the pumping parts, and I can eat my lunch or do something else during my break time. Choose the ones that can last long-term use, support you with ease, are non-irritating and tight. Nursing Pads Nursing pads will be worn inside your bras when you’re lactating or when you are going out. Moms can have breast milk leaking while going about their day. So it’s great to have nursing pads included in your postpartum care kit. You can pick two highly recommended disposable nursing pads: Medela nursing pads and Lansinoh nursing pads. I’ve personally used these brands and have exceptionally delivered what they’re intended for. If you prefer washable nursing pads, check these out – Lansinoh Reusable Nursing Pads or Kindred Bravely Organic Nursing Pads. These are great to have on your diaper bag or purse. Therapy Packs for your Breasts C-section moms can experience engorgements and other breast discomforts. Have these therapy breast packs available for you to use. Nipple Butter The best I’ve ever used is this nipple butter from Earth Mama Organics. This nipple butter will have your nipples protected from breastfeeding issues such as dryness, crackedness, and soreness. It’s essential to clean your nipples before and after each breastfeeding session. Then, you can use it before each feeding, and it’s baby safe. Guess what? You can also apply the nipple butter around your pumping flanges to ease discomfort if present while pumping. Mom Tip: Ensure you have the correct flange size for your nipples for optimum comfort during your pumping sessions. If you prefer a vegan version – check this vegan nipple butter out. Lactation Teas and Treats If you’re planning to breastfeed your baby, the best way to get your supply up is to nurse on demand. However, sometimes moms may need some boost in milk supply. If there are breastfeeding issues, you can also try out some lactation teas to help build up your supply. Please know that these recommendations are based on what worked for me and my situation. Yours may be entirely different. Check with your lactation consultant or even your doctor about breastfeeding issues. I pumped at work for my daughter’s milk stash at home. But, sometimes, it isn’t as easy as hooking it up and getting what you expected. Check out this lactation tea from Earth Mama or this other tea from Traditional Organic Mother’s Milk. Also, try these lactation cookies and emergency brownies. **This isn’t a sponsored post, and I don’t have an affiliate connection with Milky Mama products – but these are the ones that got me through my rough breastfeeding/pumping days. I highly recommend their products created by Krystal (a mom, a nurse, and a board-certified lactation consultant).** Nursing Pillow To help you position your baby for nursing, you can use this nursing pillow at home. If you are not breastfeeding, you can also use this during bottle-feeding your baby. I’ve used them both when I bottle-fed my son and breastfed my daughter. Other Mom Basic Items for your Postpartum C-section Kit Pain Relief Whether you have a prescribed pain medication from your doctor or you bought some OTC pain relievers. You can expect to grab onto them for the first few weeks of your recovery and healing. There will be pain around your C-section wound and the surgery. Take it easy on yourself. When pain intensifies, try to get as much rest as possible. If your pain becomes severe – call your doctor, and for an emergency, call 911. Your uterus will also be healing and shrinking as the days progress. So the cramping can be expected, and having these pain relievers on hand will help you reduce the pain and discomforts of healing. Before taking any medications, be sure to ask your doctor first or your baby’s doctor (if planning on breastfeeding). Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen are the pain relievers most recommended from the OTC category. There are higher doses of Ibuprofen which you can receive a prescription for from your doctor. As any reminder to moms, please consult your doctor first before taking any medication. Water Bottles Hydration for any mom recovering from surgery is essential. You can also expect to drink more water if you are breastfeeding. Try to take sips throughout the day to replenish what you exert in recovery and breastfeeding. Hydration helps with healing, so try to keep up with it. Healthy Snacks and Meals Grab a few of those oatmeal granola bars or fresh fruits to help you nourish yourself while recovering. You can freeze meals ahead of time if you have a scheduled C-section; that way, you don’t have to worry about dinners once you are all home with the baby. Prenatal Vitamins Your body is recovering after a C-section birth, and it needs the essential vitamins and minerals to promote healing. Moms are recommended to continue taking their prenatal vitamins even if they’re not breastfeeding. Take them for at least the first six weeks of your postpartum period. Postpartum iron deficiency can happen after delivering a baby. Eating iron-rich foods in your diet may replenish what you need. Iron supplements are one of the recommendations from doctors for postpartum moms to keep up with their iron levels. But, again, talk to your doctor about this. Well-balanced nutrition for recovering moms are highly encouraged. Having a baby is the most exciting time for parents. However, new moms with C-section births face challenges during their recovery period. Being prepared and having these items in your postpartum care kit will make it smoother and more manageable to recover as a C-section mom. For friends and families trying to buy a postpartum self-care kit, you can also add these essentials items to gift for the newest C-section mom in town. If you liked this post, please share it....

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My Personal Story of Postpartum Anxiety (More Than I Can Handle But Overcome with Grace)

Jordan N. — Wed, 04 Aug 2021 14:57:16 +0000

This post is my personal story of Postpartum Anxiety and how I overcame it. As I recount my experience with postpartum anxiety, I am baring myself, open and vulnerable. Even though it’s scary to share this part of my life, I’m sharing this personal story because I want to do my part – in helping at least one mom who is experiencing Postpartum Anxiety. There may be triggering words in this post for moms who had pregnancy losses and intrusive thoughts. Becoming a mom was the most joyous occasion in my life. I’ve never felt vulnerable and joyful at the same time. Motherhood indeed takes you to a high level of emotions, yet it can also take you to the lowest of low. You know my career background as a nurse and a mom of three. In my nursing education, we had lessons on perinatal mental disorders, and I’ve never particularly paid much attention to postpartum anxiety as much as postpartum depression. I couldn’t say I put effort into acquiring more knowledge about the topic before it happened to me. But, when I experienced it with my firstborn, that’s when it all began. I felt sidetracked when postpartum anxiety (PPA) hit me during my first delivery. I wasn’t entirely aware it could happen that quickly and fiercely. But, when it did, it knocked me off my feet. Yes, that feeling. I wasn’t prepared to look PPA straight in the eye and stay along with the path paved around my postpartum period. My story of Postpartum Anxiety: What was it like for me? It was the scariest and out-of-mind experience I’ve ever been on. When I was recovering home after the birth of my son, I was constantly alert with heightened worries and physical symptoms. My heart was invariably racing at all times; I couldn’t sleep, my body was crumbling. In addition, I would have constant nausea and felt stressed all the time. I didn’t want to go outside. I didn’t want anyone visiting our home. Also, the constant unannounced visits made it worst. I was a first-time mom, and I thought all of these visits were supposed to make everyone happy besides me. **Trigger Warning: Death, Intrusive Thoughts I would have racing thoughts as he will be in grave danger and die anytime soon. But then, I would constantly check if he was okay. He was a healthy and happy baby; he was perfectly safe. To me, it was the excessive, repetitive thoughts and images of harm coming to my son that shackled me to the ground. Then it progressed to thoughts of me getting harmed or dying as well. And, finally, the feelings of impending doom – strike whenever, wherever. I know in my heart that I would never hurt my baby or myself; I was even scared to have those recurring thoughts. But I couldn’t shake them off, no matter what and how I tried to do it on my own. Almost identical to having obsessive-compulsive symptoms on top of my severe anxiety. I felt slowly sinking in my dangerous thoughts, and my body was responding in a way that I can’t control either. It was very much like a spin-around ride of unending negative thoughts repeatedly cycling, and I can’t stop it. It wasn’t just once. **Trigger Warning: Death, Miscarriage Postpartum anxiety didn’t happen only when I had my son. I also came face-to-face with it again when I lost my baby girl and when I had my premature daughter at 28th weeks. Although, I had it more times than others. Every experience was different each time. Losing a child was the hardest to overcome, along with the postpartum anxiety and depression. It was like seeing yourself in a horror movie, crawling out of a shut window in a cold basement with blood all over you. My miscarriage was the most heartbreaking experienced I’ve ever encountered. I never really know how it was for many moms who had pregnancy loss until I walked through it. The moment I felt my heart stopped hearing the words that there wasn’t a heartbeat anymore. I was hemorrhaging at home five days after discovering my pregnancy loss, and I had to undergo surgery. I was in my second trimester already; it wasn’t supposed to happen. But sadly, it did. I questioned myself why it all happened. I blamed myself for the things I had no control of. It was crippling. The anxiety symptoms came back along with depression. Insomnia, excessive worrying, uncontrollable bodily symptoms, and all depression symptoms you can ever read about. I never in my mind that I could ever have survived feeling both at the same time. That was beyond what my human power could handle. RELATED POST: Postpartum Anxiety and Tips for Moms Who Have It Instead of being truly happy being pregnant again, anxiety crept back in… Going through pregnancy after a loss was way beyond what I could ever imagine. It was like flying through a raging storm cloud, unable to see the end of it. Every little thing was triggering me. When another threat of early miscarriage, my perinatal anxiety continued to rise to an absolute height. Any twinge or discomfort in my body, I was hyper-alert, and I would worry excessively. Even going to the bathroom was a nightmare, fearing there’ll be a sight of blood. I would constantly listen to my baby’s heartbeat using a home portable doppler. I would call my OB clinic more times than I can ever count. (My OB clinic addressed every question and concern I ever had.) The constant fuel of worries and fears… Suddenly I was bleeding around the 16th week (second trimester) while at work. I had to be monitored closely for more episodes of intermittent bleeding by my OB doctor. The bleeding finally stopped. My baby was safe and unharmed inside. Then my anxiety got worse. When I had an early C-section due to preeclampsia, I was not responding to treatment after grueling five days in the hospital. Again, my baby was only 28 weeks at that time. It was too early but life-saving for both of us. It was too much, more than enough for me to go down the drain again. Every day was a struggle for me. This time was different from the previous episodes. It was still difficult, but I was able to recognize what was happening to me. Although that was the case, it wasn’t easy at all. Just thinking about what will happen to my sweet baby girl and being in the NICU was enough for my mind to spin over. It was enormously more challenging when I also had to be present and be there for my son. Although I know my husband was there for him, I’ve felt I’ve failed him as his mom. He didn’t deserve to have a mom that was barely hanging on. I still have to wake up, show up and keep going. On top of that, my daughter is fighting for her life in the NICU. So she also needed a mom who cares for herself and strives to stay healthy – mind and body. My husband was the trooper in all of these. When I couldn’t show up for everyone or myself, he picked up what he can and carried us all through. And the person who reminded me that it’d all be alright. How did I manage all that? Although all of it was crippling me, I continued to stay positive. However, it was beyond difficult due to my emotions being all over the place. I’m thankful for my supportive husband that through it all, he’s my rock. I also made sure I reached out to my village: my parents, relatives, friends, and close nursing colleagues. I continued my trust in God. There wasn’t anything He can’t do. He’s my Amazing Grace and my Refuge. He strengthened me and kept me in His Perfect Love. The most loved verse of mine at that time was “Perfect Love casts out fears.” 1 John 4:18 I reached out to my doctor and sought help. As a result, I started on meditations, relaxation methods, and other interventions. To sum, all three experiences of having postpartum anxiety required different approaches each time. Exercise also helped with my mood, both my anxiety and depression. Somehow, it lifted me and gave me another purpose to focus and push more for myself. Self-care practice helps me save myself. I’ve learned to calm my mind through meditation and yoga practice. In addition, writing how I felt when anxiety comes full force helped me reduce some of my burdens. Lastly, I committed to putting myself first for my healing and recovery. It wasn’t easy to overcome all of it, but I gave my best. All of these postpartum anxiety experiences and my story had made my motherhood hard. However, it made me a stronger person coming out of it. I am grateful for being a mom, and I wouldn’t exchange it for anything. It taught me that even how prepared I was to become a mom finally, I did not know what comes ahead. It taught me that healing could happen no matter how slow; it’s steady and full of grace. The people who loved me will be there no matter what and are willing to support me. For that, I’m grateful. I’ve been fortunate that I have a solid support system, and my healthcare team is responsive. In addition, my faith in God kept me centered. Takeaways for Moms with Postpartum Anxiety I want to let moms with postpartum anxiety know that they can overcome it, and your story doesn’t end there. To know that you aren’t alone in this battle. You are more powerful than you think. You’ll heal in time and recover at your own pace. Don’t let it define you or your motherhood. When you take a step forward to acknowledge what you’ve been through, you’ll discover a new strength that is incomparable to your past or what you’ve gone through. Find strategies that can help you in your healing journey with PPA. Remember, there is help for you. Also, set clear boundaries around your postpartum period regardless if you are experiencing postpartum mental disorders. It has been shared by many moms, especially first-time moms, the overwhelming pressures of others. It is your healing time, your recovery phase. You decide what you can take and limit what you can’t. RELATED POST: First-Time Mom? The Honest, Raw, and Obvious Truth Here are simple tips for managing postpartum anxiety: To know yourself and the profound changes in your body and mind. Take care of yourself; prioritize yourself Speak up about your fears around your pregnancy, labor, birth, and recovery. Create a strong system of supportive people in your life and ask for help. Take it easy on yourself, don’t blame yourself that it happened to you Continue to seek help when needed – from your doctor, therapist, and other healthcare providers. Make time to bond with your newborn as you possibly can It may be hard to see the end of the tunnel, you may think you aren’t good enough for your baby, or you may think you failed. Those are not true. These thoughts will all be lessened in time, and hopefully, you’ll recover. Healing from your postpartum anxiety can take a long time and requires your commitment. Take it each day at a time, as I did. In the end, you heal from within, and your overall mental health and wellness will resurface in time. My story of postpartum anxiety is one I keep tucked in my heart, knowing I fought the hardest and I healed. If you are battling postpartum anxiety and need help, please reach out to your doctor or call the resource below. Moms can reach the NAMI HelpLine Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m., ET.1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or info@nami.org RELATED POST: Postpartum Anxiety and Tips for Moms Who Have It Have you gone through postpartum...

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Postpartum Anxiety and Tips for Moms Who Have It

Jordan N. — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 21:20:54 +0000

What is postpartum anxiety? Why does it happen? What can you do if you or anyone you know are experiencing anxiety after giving birth? Postpartum anxiety (PPA) is a mental disorder experienced by moms who have recently given birth or around the recovery period of 6 months to a year. Awareness of postpartum anxiety is not as full-blown as information on postnatal depression that moms get access to. Unfortunately, the discussion about this particular maternal mental disorder has less searchable information on the web either. According to Postpartum Support International on Anxiety During Pregnancy and Postpartum, “Approximately 6% of pregnant women and 10% of postpartum women develop anxiety. Sometimes they experience anxiety alone, and sometimes they experience it in addition to depression.” Another study by Lorraine Byrnes Ph.D., PMHNP-BC that 11-21% of US women are vulnerable in the perinatal and postpartum period to develop anxiety disorders. Many moms face this period of distress as they transition into their new role as mothers and even as mothers who have had more children. PPA doesn’t pick its host. It settles within whether you are ready or not. When can Postpartum Anxiety occur? How long does it last? It sets in anytime during your postpartum period; it can be as early as a few weeks and as late as a year or so after. But, when it shows itself, you may not realize that it has. It can crawl slowly unnoticed, or it can be as loudly stumping around you. Any mom can experience it once or more times in succeeding deliveries. I had it with all three of my babies, three distinct pregnancies, and experiences. If you had postnatal anxiety after your first baby, you might or might not experience it after the next child. Everyone is different, and each pregnancy/recovery is unique. An epidemiological study on women at Chaim Sheba Medical Center maternity ward indicates that approximately 40% of women postpartum experienced severe anxiety. Moms experiencing postnatal anxiety can last an extended time without proper treatment and support. The recovery from anxiety will depend on the severity of her status, when she reached out for help, whether she has a supportive circle, and her willingness to commit to helping herself get better. There are many circumstances that moms learn how to manage their anxiety in their day-to-day living, and it’s entirely possible to attain it with proper care and treatment. Why does it happen? Causes and Risk Factors for Moms When moms cross the threshold of birth, the hormones can shift significantly in the body. It can cause massive changes because hormones are decreasing abruptly, such as estrogen and progesterone. Additionally, other hormones are increasing after birth, like prolactin, oxytocin, and thyroid hormones. Also, the chance of experiencing postnatal anxiety increases with every delivery. In general, causes are unknown; however, risk factors can contribute to the PPA setting in. The risk factors that may increase your risk of experiencing Postnatal Anxiety: Anxiety (personal or family history) Previous experience with anxiety or depression Difficult pregnancy Trauma at birth/PTSD Sleeplessness/Sleep disruptions Thyroid imbalances Medical Problems (Baby or Mom) Other mental disorders Postpartum Obsessive-compulsive disorder (POCD) Pregnancy Loss/Stillbirth Even if you don’t fall into the categories above, you can still experience PPA during the first week to a year after birth. Therefore, it’s best to know PPA and continue to work closely with your doctor during postpartum recovery and postpartum visits. Signs and Symptoms of Postpartum Anxiety Symptoms of anxiety can be seen as usual around your recovery. However, when it interferes with your thoughts, emotions, and daily living, it can pose a threat to your wellbeing and even your newborn. Trouble sleeping Constant Excessive Worry Sleep and Eating Disturbance Increased Heart Rate, or Palpitations Increased Respirations, and Blood Pressure Dizziness, Headache, Being Flushed, Excessive Sweat Stomach Pain and Nausea Panic Attacks Racing Thoughts Feelings of impending doom or death Unable to relax and be still Irritable and sometimes anger Feelings of Overwhelm and Distress Inability to focus Memory Lapses RELATED POST: My Personal Story of Postpartum Anxiety Treatment and Help for Moms with Postnatal Anxiety Your healthcare provider will screen you for perinatal mental disorders, including postpartum anxiety using a standard screening. Some providers may screen you a few weeks before the due date to anticipate postnatal anxiety signs and symptoms, especially if you’re high risk. You may undergo a complete psychiatric evaluation by a licensed mental health professional to determine the cause of anxiety (whether caused by other factors). Although you can quickly look up symptoms online, be sure to visit a doctor for assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. Knowing what your treatment options are and when to ask for help Reach out to your doctor when symptoms occur early on. It’s crucial to bring attention to what you’re experiencing to your doctor so interventions can begin. The treatment can start with a non-medication approach and therapeutic counseling. When symptoms become severe, you may be prescribed medications and other supportive supplements by your doctor. If you are worried about taking medications when breastfeeding, please talk with your doctor and pediatrician. They can give you the best advice on how to move forward with this treatment option. Your support system can also help you be alert; they’re the ones you encounter daily or sometime during your recovery and the vulnerable postpartum period. Other modalities can help moms with postnatal anxiety, such as guided meditations, cognitive behavior therapy, or essential oils. These alternative methods in managing anxiety for moms can get added to your primary treatment mentioned above. Joining a mom group can also help with belonging to a community that understands what you’re going through and can support moms experiencing PA. I was fortunate enough to find a support group when I was on the difficult journey of postpartum anxiety. For immediate help, call 911. Also, call the SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Please don’t hesitate to call. Can you also get perinatal anxiety? Yes, it can happen, especially to first-time moms—the fear of the unknown and fear of birth (voiced out or unspoken). When new moms encounter worries around labor and delivery, it can predispose them to have perinatal and postpartum anxiety or other perinatal mental disorders. Also, moms told that their babies might have abnormalities or die at birth or soon after. In addition, postnatal anxiety is seen among those already distressed pregnant moms. Even moms who already delivered other children, perinatal anxiety can set in. For Moms who had previous losses, it can increase their risks of perinatal anxiety occurring. Therefore, it’s essential to have strong support and follow-up. Sometimes, moms who work outside the home can also experience ongoing anxiety and go back to work after the baby’s birth. Any scenario involving moms can give way to stress and eventually develop into PA. Tips on New Moms with Postnatal Anxiety 1. Be aware of yourself (emotions, thoughts, and other changes) and your recovery. 2. Acknowledge your fears and worries (labor, delivery, and recovery). 3. Seek out help from your doctor and other healthcare professionals. 4. Have a solid supportive circle around pregnancy and postpartum. If you’re at high risk, your spouse can also be another eye to monitor signs and symptoms of PA. 5. Take it easy during your recovery period. (Easier said than acted on, but it’s achievable with help). 6. Remember to care for yourself and make time. (Self-Care for Moms). 7. Bonding with your baby may be delayed because of your condition; know that you aren’t failing your baby. 8. Write down your experience – labor, birth, recovery (only if it’s not triggering you). Write everything out to keep your mind out of it or talk it out with someone. 9. You can meditate and pray. Let your mind re-focused on the positive. Practice deep breathing every day. Pray for the strength you need and guidance to overcome this trial. 10. Give yourself love and take it one step at a time. Ways you can support someone with Anxiety after Birth Be ready to listen with no judgment. Encourage the mom to seek help and check in regularly. Ask what you can do to help her. Sometimes, the mom will decline your help. But, if there’s an opportunity to do something at home, do it. You may see her cry, rage, panic, or be apathetic. Try to understand her raw emotions. Show her that she is loved and supported. Pray for her and offer some encouraging words (Bible verses, other religious statements based on her affiliation preference). Words of Encouragement for Moms who has Postpartum Anxiety Mama, you are enough, beautiful, the mom your baby needs, and you are supported. You may not feel yourself at this moment. You may blame yourself for what’s happening. Know that it isn’t your fault or undoing. When you seek help, you are the bravest. You put yourself first and find what works. It may not come easy, but it will get better as time goes. Getting your anxiety under control and treated can help you heal and recover. In addition, working through your anxiety can improve the state of your life. Finally, enjoy your motherhood experience with your newborn. Disclaimer: Although The Motherly Heap strives to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute for any professional advice, and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult your doctor or healthcare professional. If you find this post on postpartum anxiety helpful, please Share It. In addition, you can also Subscribe to The Motherly Heap Newsletter. Thank you.

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Your Postpartum Checkup After A C-section and What To Expect

Jordan N. — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 11:00:00 +0000

What are your expectations with the upcoming postpartum checkup after delivering via C-section? Do you have any pressing concerns before your appointment? Preparing for your postpartum appointment and knowing what to expect is beneficial for you. Before leaving the birth hospital, you will receive all your home care instructions to bring home. In addition, your nurses will remind you of your doctor’s appointment and reiterate to follow your Postpartum C-section care plan. The day has finally arrived for you to see your doctor and get all the necessary postpartum exams and health screenings you need. It’s also good to check beforehand to bring your baby with you if you don’t have someone to leave the baby with at home. Most often than not, the clinic will allow this request. This time with the covid pandemic, there may be limitations. So it’s always better to check first. At my first C-section checkup, I went alone and left my son with my husband. Then my second C-section doctor visit, I also went without my baby – she was in the NICU being a 28-weeker preemie baby. If you’re a first-time mom or this is your first C-section birth, I’m hoping you’ll gain a better understanding of what to expect in a postpartum doctor visit after a C-section. What is a postpartum checkup? It’s a routine medical checkup on moms who had just delivered their babies either vaginally or through a C-section. As a new mom or newly postpartum mom, you are at risk for any severe complications in days or weeks after your C-section; any life-threatening complications can occur as well. It’s crucial to be on top of everything concerning your health, and getting this medical checkup when appointed is essential. When will you have to go? After your C-section, your nurse must have set up your postpartum checkup at two weeks. Or the nurse instructed you to arrange your checkup at two weeks when you get home. Although, in general, moms who have given birth may see their doctor at six weeks or so; having gone through a major surgery like a C-section; you will need to show up at the clinic earlier or around the two-week mark. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, ACOG’s revised postpartum care recommendations in 2021 – “To optimize the health of women and infants, postpartum care should become an ongoing process, rather than a single encounter, with services and support tailored to each woman’s individual needs.” “It is recommended that all women have contact with their obstetrician-gynecologists or other obstetric care providers within the first three weeks postpartum. This initial assessment should be followed up with ongoing care as needed, concluding with a comprehensive postpartum visit no later than 12 weeks after birth.” You can read the more detailed information on their website. Why shouldn’t you skip this necessary follow-up? Making sure you are recovering well. Your doctor will be assessing you and your recovery in this first visit. In addition, it will serve as a baseline for your postpartum health status. This postpartum doctor visit isn’t just a regular checkup; instead, it’ll be a comprehensive one. There will be lots of questions and also bodily exams. There will be consecutive spaced-out visits after this first one until you are cleared by your doctor- most likely in 12 weeks. Checking your C-section Incision and healing. As you care for your C-section wound at home, this will be the time for your doctor to check on the surgical wound area. Any changes to the wound and the surrounding skin will be all noted in your medical record. The doctor will take a closer look at your wound to find out if the healing is progressing. Again, watching for any signs of infections. Following up on any C-section Complications in this postpartum checkup. During your surgery and immediate recovery in the hospital, you may have experienced untoward signs and symptoms. For example, severe bleeding, severe nausea, extreme drowsiness, allergic reactions, or uncontrolled pain; anything that occurred post-surgery/recovery. You’ll be informed of what happened, what interventions were done, and what caused them. If you had pregnancy complications such as pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, and others, your doctor would explain the recovery and what you can do. It would be best if you took notes of these particular instructions. Your doctor will give a postpartum care summary to you for reference. Addressing any concerns you have: Physical, Mental, and Emotional Health You will be asked and assessed in terms of your overall wellbeing. Initially, your doctor will focus on your physical recovery and recommend any appropriate measures to follow at home. Next will be your mental health. You can tell how your thoughts have been ever since coming home with your newborn. The probing questions will also be based upon your postpartum mental health screenings. Then last will be how you have been feeling these days. With regards to yourself, your baby, your spouse, and others. Do you talk to someone about your emotions, worries, concerns? Receiving instructions on what you can do now at two weeks, four weeks, and six weeks. At this time, your doctor will discuss necessary postpartum guidelines in connection with your length of recovery. You may expect these instructions; however, if any complications occur or any underlying health problems are present, you may need additional information to remember. Discussing future reproductive plans (birth control, new pregnancy, etc. Well, you must be thinking – how on earth would we talk about getting pregnant again when I just gave birth. So hold up, let me say this. There’s a chance you might become pregnant as early as six weeks after giving birth, and it can happen. You never know – if there haven’t been any conception barriers used when sex happened during these times, you can get pregnant again. Another pregnancy right after a C-section can be risky for you and your baby; this can be especially true if you are a high-risk mama. In general, your doctor will tell you to wait for a year and a half to recover and heal fully. You can discuss the preferred birth control you want to be placed on with your doctor. If you decided to go natural family planning, then let your doctor know as well. Getting referrals to other health care providers. What do I mean by this? When you had your baby and had underlying medical conditions, you will be referred back to your health specialist or primary care doctor. If you have a heart problem, diabetes, lung problems, or other medical issues, you need to coordinate follow-ups with these doctors. Additionally, if you had been diagnosed by your doctor with postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, or postpartum psychosis, your doctor will refer you to other health care providers to facilitate treatment. SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) “SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.” For Mamas who lost their babies through miscarriage, stillbirth, and others, you are still a postpartum mom recovering from delivery either through natural or surgical. This time is difficult for you. I’m sorry for your loss. There aren’t enough words to mend your broken heart at this moment. I don’t know how you feel right now. But, please know, I’m here to extend my support. Reach out to me if you ever need someone. I’ve experienced a miscarriage and the heartbreaking time of going home not pregnant. Then, seeing my doctor for my postpartum checkup at one week and a half was gut-wrenching. Having a doctor you can trust, who is compassionate, and someone you can be honest with your innermost pain is helpful. So it was a consolation when I saw her again at my post-miscarriage checkup. You will need to follow up with your doctor. They will have to perform all the necessary exams and screenings with you. Know that you can get help for anything that makes this postpartum period much harder to recover from. Be kind to yourself. Give yourself time to heal. What to Expect at your postpartum appointment after your C-section? Physical Exam: Vital signs: Blood pressure, Heart rate, Respiration Rate, Temperature and Pain C-section Wound Pelvic Exam Breast Exam Any Health Conditions Mental Health Screenings: Your feelings and any concerns with this new transition Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale Perinatal Anxiety Screening Scale Other Important Instructions to Remember: Referrals to other specialists Family Support Newborn care at home Other emergency matters – call 911. What common questions your doctor may ask you? How are you feeling? Hours of sleep when the baby sleeps? Any pain? How’s your wound? Any more bleeding? How’s breastfeeding going? Any problems? Are you eating okay? How’s the baby? Any other concerns? What common questions do you have for your doctor? (Make sure before you visit your doctor to write all your questions down.) When will the C-section Wound completely heal? When can I exercise? Have sex? Is it safe to take a bath tub soak? Swim? At what week can I resume driving a car? What should I continue to watch out for? What to do in case of complications occur? When should I call for help with my emotions/thoughts? Your doctor will also remind you what to watch out for in the following weeks to come. Signs and Symptoms To Monitor at Home After Your C-section Heavy Bleeding Uncontrolled Pain Severe Abdominal Pain Sudden Chest Pain Sudden Shortness of Breath Unexplained pain on one or both legs High Fevers or Chills Severe Headache and Visual Changes Hallucinations and Suicidal Thoughts Be sure to call 911 for an emergency. Contact your doctor by phone to let them know of your condition. The postpartum checkup after your C-section Delivery Your postpartum recovery begins as soon as you gave birth in the operating room. However, your recovery doesn’t end when you see your doctor for your first postpartum checkup after a c-section delivery. Your body will continue to adjust in the coming months to a year. However, after delivery, your mental health will be vulnerable for up to two years or so. Take preventative actions on your part, be mindful of your overall health, not just physically but also mentally/emotionally. Remember to keep open communication with your doctor at all times during this postpartum period. Also, get your spouse in the loop of your postpartum health, so he may be able to assist and support you better. Finally, reach out to anyone you trust and if you prefer, keep them updated. Attending your postpartum checkup is a top priority for all postpartum moms. You’ll feel less stressed and prepared when you walk into your appointment now that you know what to anticipate. RELATED POST: POSTPARTUM KIT FOR A C-SECTION MOM What was your experience with your first postpartum doctor visit? What did you do to prepare for your checkup? Did you feel supported by your doctor? Share this article with your family and friends. Pin it for later.

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C-Section Wound Care: How To Care For Your Incision at Home

Jordan N. — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 19:09:05 +0000

You delivered your baby via C-section and now have a low incision cut around the pubic area. You received your discharge papers and were hoping you’ll remember everything right after walking out the door. Now, you must be reading this post looking for instructions on how to care for your C-section wound. Remembering the nurse’s instructions the day of discharge and the excitement of going home isn’t a great combo. So, my nurse tip for you is to work with your nurse closely in having 1:1 wound care instructions a day before your planned discharge. It will also be beneficial if a family member is present during this wound care teaching. This way, you can ask questions, clarify wound care steps, and be prepared when you go home. Don’t forget to ask what kind of closing method the doctor/surgeon used to close your incision. You’ll know later why it’s crucial. In this post, you’ll learn about: How Do You Take Care of Your C-section Wound? Take a Close Look at Your Wound Steps for C-Section Wound Care How long does the wound healing take? What to watch out for? What to do? Signs and Symptoms of Wound Infection When does wound infection happen? What will happen next if an infection occurs? Complications of C-Section Wound Infections What can you do to prevent infection? Your C-section Wound Opening Up In Caring for your C-section Wound and Recovering You must be feeling glad that finally, after 3-4 days in the hospital, home is waiting for you. Now, you’re going to change into your home clothes, and the first thing you see is the bandaged area on your lower abdomen. How did the nurse say the wound care was? First, it’s necessary to follow your doctor’s instructions. If you forgot the instructions, your discharge papers would have your reminders. If you lost them for some reason, then keep on reading. Your following questions would be how you will change the dressing properly and how long the c-section wound will heal. When I had my two c-sections, it was reasonably easy to care for my wound despite the factors leading to them happening. Even though I was a post-surgical nurse at those times, my husband helped me for the first two days, and I took over afterward. However, if you aren’t used to seeing surgical wounds, not to mention your incision wound. So then, hang in there, and I’ll walk you step by step in dressing and caring for your c-section wound. How Do You Take Care of Your C-section Wound? Firstly, if you have your spouse or someone at home who can help you, the better; however, if it’s just you, that’s okay; you can do this from top to bottom. Secondly, you will need to gather all the dressing materials ahead of time you’ll need before opening your current bandage. Then, get some loose-fitting clothes ready, so you can wear them after your shower and wound care. Recommended Read: First-Time Mom? The Honest, Raw, and Obvious Truth Take a Close Look at Your Wound Your wound will look puffy for the first 2-3 days, and eventually, the slight swelling will subside. There may be a subtle pinkish tone because of the cut. Severe redness is something else. Your wound will also feel tender to touch. It usually goes away around 2-3 weeks. Steps for C-Section Wound Care: 1. Open the bandage tape slowly, taut the skin on the opposite side, so you’ll not feel a hard tug on the tender skin. Remove it gently. 2. Inspect the incision area. Is there swelling? Mild to moderately raised? Is there a discharge? Blood, pus, or clear discharge? What about pain? Mild to severe pain? 3. If you have steri-strips (keep it in place) while you shower. DO NOT remove the strips or glue (skin adhesive), and just let the water run through your body. You can use mild soap on the wound area. DO NOT scrub the area. 4. DO NOT soak in a tub, hot tub, or swim. 5. Pat dry the incision with a clean towel. DO NOT rub. 6. If your doctor instructed you to keep the incision covered, use non-adherent gauze and paper tape to secure it. DO NOT put any cream unless directed and prescribed by your doctor. 7. Change your dressing once a day or when it is soiled (wet or dirty). 8. You may use your abdominal binder over the bandaged wound. When you’re moving about, the binder can help support your lower abdomen. Important to note: The Steri-strips will fall off on their own in about seven days. However, if you have stitches, some may dissolve, and some may have to be taken off. For staple wound closures, the doctor will remove them before you are discharged, but sometimes you will have to follow up with your Obstetrician to remove them at a designated date. How long does the wound healing take? Your C-section wound will take about six weeks to heal in general initially. Every mom is different and depends on underlying circumstances or complications you’ll encounter at home. Another thing not to feel alarmed about is the loss of sensation in the area of the incision. The numbness is normal, and it’ll come back over time. Although, some moms have reported to have not felt the sensation back around the scar. What to watch out for? What to do? Every time you change your wound dressing, always keep an eye for anything out of the ordinary. You can monitor the appearance, smell, healing progress, and everything about your wound. Additionally, you can observe any abnormality on your C-section wound and around it and take the necessary steps to care and call for help immediately. Signs and Symptoms of Wound Infection: The wound is severely red, painful, and swollen. There’s a pus-like discharge and not healing correctly. The wound smells funky or a different smell. A high fever (100.5ºF to 103ºF, or 38ºC to 39.4ºC) and chills. You have severe lower abdominal pain not relieved by prescribed pain relievers. Foul-smelling vaginal discharges (you can still have light bleeding even up to six weeks with a C-section) It’s imperative to seek medical help immediately to prevent complications from your wound infection. When does wound infection happen? Be vigilant in your wound healing and overall health. Wound infection can happen before you leave the hospital, but most occur after a few weeks at home. Alert your doctor for any signs/symptoms above or anything you are concerned about. What will happen next if an infection occurs? Your doctor will diagnose wound infection after carefully assessing the wound appearance, the progress of wound healing, any present bacteria, or presence of infection symptoms. Your doctor will provide treatment based on the wound condition and your health. For example, if there’s pus, the doctor may drain the wound using a syringe or make a small opening in the skin. The wound fluid taken may be sent to a lab for further diagnostic testing. You may be given oral antibiotics to take at home. However, you may be re-admitted to the hospital for IV antibiotics therapy and wound care. If the doctor believes further investigation is needed, he may open your wound under anesthesia and make treatment recommendations. Complications of C-Section Wound Infections are as follows: Wound Cellulitis – a skin infection of the deep layers of the skin when bacteria enter your skin. Wound Abscess – a collection of pus build-up within the tissue of the body. Sepsis – a life-threatening response to an infection, a complication affecting your organs, tissues and can cause death. Other infections Read here for more detailed information on Complications of Wound infections after a C-section. What can you do to prevent infection? Keep your C-section wound dry, clean, and intact. Do not scratch the area when itchy. Always wash your hands before and after tending to your incision. Follow your doctor’s postoperative wound care instructions. Then, contact your doctor as soon as you have any signs/symptoms of wound infection. When your wound heals, there’s going to be a noticeable scar across your lower abdomen. As time permits, the C-section scar will look flatter and lighter, or even the same color as your skin. For information about C-Section Scar care, check here. Your C-section Wound Opening Up The incision wound can also open up, or rupture can be due to straining. Remember the instructions not to lift anything heavier than your newborn. It can be due to strenuous activities such as exercising too early or climbing a high flight of stairs. Another reason for the wound to be closely monitored is the healing process. Moms can have poor wound healing and can be due to underlying medical conditions, such as obesity or diabetes. Not enough oxygen around the wound can lead to the death of the surrounding areas, thereby preventing the site from healing. So you must make sure to inspect your wound daily closely. In case of emergency, call 911 and seek immediate medical help. In caring for your C-Section wound and Recovering Your outlook after C-section surgery underlies how you are recovering overall. Your body will adjust as the days and weeks continue after your major surgery. Therefore, caring for your C-section wound will need you to follow methods for preventing infections and promoting proper wound healing. Through careful c-section wound care, you’ll be able to heal and recover smoothly at home. So enjoy your newborn baby during this momentous time and stay healthy on the road to your full recovery. Are you having a planned C-section? List down all your questions for your healthcare provider. Are you recovering from a C-section surgery at home? Make a note of the wound care tips in this post. If you found this post helpful, let me know in the comments. Share this post or pin for later. You can also subscribe to the blog Newsletter for updates on motherhood.

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