How Fluid Retention Can Affect Recovery After Childbirth

BySamradni Pradhan
Updated: 1 Dec 2025, 3:30 pm

In the post-delivery phase, your body undergoes a slow but powerful healing process. However, when your body holds extra water, i.e., fluid retention, it can make recovery more uncomfortable and affect your recovery process. Understanding how postpartum swelling affects your body helps you manage symptoms more effectively and recover more smoothly, both physically and mentally.

Pregatips.com
Childbirth changes everything from your body's rhythm to your emotions. Once your baby arrives, you might expect your body to get back to normal quickly. But for most new mothers, postpartum oedema or fluid retention can slow down that recovery process.
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If you've noticed swollen hands, puffy feet, or a bloated feeling even days after childbirth, you're not the only one. This thing is usually not a big deal; it’s common and tends to go away. Still, if you don’t take care of it, it can be a pain and slow down healing.

So, what’s going on in your body, and how can you help yourself to get better? Let’s discuss.

Why Do You Get Swollen After Giving Birth?

When you’re pregnant, your body makes almost 50% more blood and fluid to nourish your baby. After giving birth, the extra fluid stays around for a bit. It won’t vanish instantly. Instead, your body gets rid of it through urine, sweating, and blood flow over the next week or two.

Here’s why you might get inflammation after having a baby:
  • Your hormone levels are changing. Progesterone can cause you to retain water.
  • You might have received fluids or medicines during labour, and your body is holding onto that extra liquid for a bit.
  • Rest is very crucial after childbirth. But if you don’t move much, your blood flow can slow down, which can make swelling worse.
  • After a C-section, women usually swell up more because of not moving much due to the surgery.

How Does Fluid Retention Mess with Your Recovery?

Swelling is usually normal, but too much fluid can make it hard to move, feel good, and get better.
  • Swelling near stitches, like after an episiotomy or C-section, can make things feel sore and tight, and it might take longer to heal.
  • The additional fluid causes your hands and feet to be sore and heavy, and this causes exhaustion in your body exactly when you need to be more active to spend time with your newborn.
  • Swollen joints can make your muscles feel tight. Moving around becomes painful, like trying to lift something or even just bending over.
  • Sometimes, swelling could indicate postpartum preeclampsia, a serious high blood pressure issue. So, pay attention to how you feel.

What Symptoms Should You Be Careful About?

While a little swelling is expected, watch for these signs that indicate it’s time to see a doctor:
  • If the post-delivery swelling suddenly gets extremely worse
  • If you’ve chest pain or breathing issues
  • If you keep feeling dizzy, have problems with your eyesight, or have a bad headache
  • Pain, redness, or warmth in one leg could indicate blood clotting
  • Swelling that doesn't improve within 15 days
Contact your doctor immediately if you encounter any of these.

How to Naturally Reduce Postpartum Swelling?

Here’s how to help yourself feel better:
  • Take it easy and walk a bit. It helps improve your blood circulation and reduces swelling.
  • Drink plenty of water. It helps your body get rid of extra fluid.
  • Put your feet up higher than your chest while resting. Practice it a few times a day.
  • Don’t eat too much salt. It can make swelling worse.
  • Wear comfortable fabrics. Loose clothes let your blood flow better.
  • Eat potassium-rich foods like bananas, spinach, or sweet potatoes to balance out your sodium intake.
  • Try not to stand or sit for too long. Moving around a little keeps blood from pooling in your legs.

Can Breastfeeding Prevent Swelling?

Yes, it can. Breastfeeding helps your body get rid of excess fluids by releasing hormones such as oxytocin, which supports uterine contractions and helps balance your fluid levels. Many mothers notice a reduction in swelling within days of continuous breastfeeding.

How Does Fluid Retention Affect You Emotionally?

The postpartum phase can already feel overwhelming, with hormonal fluctuations and sleepless nights. Swelling may make you feel uncomfortable, bloated, or even self-conscious about your appearance.

But remember, this phase won't last long. Talking to people who are close to you, like your partner, family, or support group, can make you feel a bit better. And, if people offer to help with the baby or around the house, don’t ignore it. It gives you more time to relax and heal faster.

When Should You Worry About Swelling After Giving Birth?

Consult your medic if swelling brings additional issues, such as:
  • Increased blood pressure or an intolerable migraine issue
  • Weight is being gained abnormally
  • Chest pain or shortness of breath
  • You get swelling only on one side of the body

What Are the Following Steps?

  • Do a little activity, but check with your physician before starting any
  • Drink lots of water, about 8 to 10 glasses daily
  • Eat foods that contain potassium
  • When you’re resting, keep your feet up a little
  • Watch for signs of pain, infection, or breathing problems
  • Keep in touch with your doctor for postpartum check-ups

Supporting Your Body & Mind

The post-delivery recovery phase doesn't only involve physical healing. Your emotional and mental well-being equally matters. To help you recover faster, eat good food, rest when needed, and lean on your family or friends for support.

It’s normal to have fluid retention after giving birth; it means your body is healing. Most of the swelling reduces as you recover. Still, if you notice anything weird, get it checked out.

Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on How Fluid Retention Can Affect Recovery After Childbirth

  1. How long does postpartum swelling usually last?
    Most women feel better within a few days after childbirth. If swelling doesn’t heal easily, consult your doctor to find out what’s happening.
  2. Does swelling get worse after a caesarean delivery?
    Yes, swelling can stick around longer after a C-section since surgery irritates, and you’re not moving around as much. Staying hydrated and practising mild activities help reduce it.
  3. Can massage help relieve postpartum swelling?
    Yes. Gentle massages, especially on the legs and feet, can improve blood flow and reduce water retention. Definitely consult your doctor before getting a massage.
Disclaimer: Dr Sunita Lamba, Director & Senior Consultant at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Vikas Puri, Department of Gynecology

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