After a successful delivery and observation period, it is time for mom and baby to go home. It may seem like all the preparations are over: the birth plan was fulfilled, optional procedures, like umbilical cord blood banking have been performed and immunizations have been received. However there are still many things that lie ahead where precautions will help prevent trouble down the road. Being aware of these before delivery can make the transition smoother, but there is no time better to begin learning than the present in any case.
Pregnancy and Delivery Skills Are Still Useful
Skills learned during pregnancy will continue to be useful in those first few weeks of transition. While it is important for mom to get plenty of rest during this time, baby demands will not make this easy. The damaging effects of insomnia, which can lead to post-partum depression, will be alleviated by avoiding inactivity. The exercises practiced later in pregnancy, especially ones to tone the pelvic muscles, will also help with recovery. Moderate amounts of aerobic exercise will also promote more restful naps.
Meditation and alternative pain management techniques will also still be useful. Meditation causes profound physiological changes, such as increasing production of endorphins and DHEA that will help to moderate mood swings and balance hormone levels. Breathing exercises have shown similar effects. If these were not learned during pregnancy, it is never too late to unlock the natural healing ability of the body.
Visiting the Doctor
Baby will constantly let mom know about its needs, but there are some needs that baby is not aware of. Keeping regular doctor appointments will ensure that mom’s recovery and baby’s growth are proceeding as scheduled. Doctors, or other health providers, will also use these opportunities to share important information about taking care of baby, and mom will find a friendly ear for voicing concerns and questions.
Back to Basics
Whether breastfeeding or not, baby’s health still relies on mom being healthy. Proper amounts of rest and exercise will help with this tremendously, but nutrition plays a large role as well. Mothers who are breastfeeding should eat whenever they are hungry just as baby should, according to lactation experts. A balanced diet will promote lactation, as well as keep the immune system strong.
Planning meals in advance will help a great deal. Fresh fruits and vegetables should form the backbone of every meal, and they should be combined with a mix of lean proteins and whole grains. Basic appliances, such as a grain grinder, rice steamer and food processor, will make it easier to get a balanced diet using the freshest ingredients possible.
Though it may seem like the most stressful time has passed, there are plenty of challenges waiting in the transitional first weeks of motherhood. The same techniques of stress reduction that worked during pregnancy are just as applicable now. Mom’s health is the most important factor in a happy and healthy baby.
This article was written by Katie Moore. Katie is an active writer within the blogging community who discusses maternity, motherhood, prenatal health, childbirth and other topics within this niche. If you have any questions or would like to connect with Katie please contact by visiting her blog, Moore From Katie or her twitter @moorekm26.