In this article:
Healing from Vaginal Soreness and Stitches
Pushing a baby out can stretch or tear the area between your vagina and anus, called the perineum. Sometimes, your doctor might make a small cut (an episiotomy) to help with delivery. Either way, it’s normal for this area to feel sore for a few weeks.Normal delivery stitches recovery time is usually about one to two weeks. Even after the stitches are gone, the area might still feel tender for up to three weeks.
These are some ways to make yourself more comfortable:
- Sit on a soft pillow or a padded ring to take pressure off the sore area.
- Use chilled witch hazel pads placed between a sanitary pad and your perineum to reduce swelling.
- Spray warm water over the area with a squirt bottle while urinating to lessen stinging.
Managing Vaginal Discharge (Lochia)
After giving birth, you’ll have vaginal bleeding and discharge called lochia. It's your body’s way of clearing out blood, mucus, and tissue from the uterus. This is a natural part of recovery after a normal delivery and happens to every new parent.In the first week, it’s usually bright red and heavy, kind of like a period, and you might notice small clots.
Over the next 4 to 6 weeks, the colour slowly changes from dark red to pinkish-brown, and finally to yellow or white before it stops completely.
Dealing with Afterpains
After you’ve had your baby, it’s normal to feel some cramps (afterpains) for a few days.These feel like menstrual cramps and happen as your uterus shrinks back to its pre-pregnancy size, which takes about six weeks.
Afterpains can be stronger during breastfeeding because it releases a hormone called oxytocin that makes your uterus contract.
A hot water bottle on your lower belly or a warm bath can help ease the cramps.
Coping with Leaking Urine (Incontinence)
Pregnancy and giving birth can weaken your pelvic floor muscles. Because of this, you might notice a little urine leakage when you laugh, cough, sneeze, or exercise. This is called stress incontinence, and it’s very common during the post-pregnancy recovery phase.Handling Haemorrhoids and Bowel Movements
The pressure of pushing during delivery can cause swollen veins in your anus or lower rectum, known as haemorrhoids. These can feel sore, itchy, or tender.You might also feel nervous about having a bowel movement due to fear of hurting stitches, or hormonal changes causing constipation.
This is how you can make things easier:
- Apply a doctor-recommended haemorrhoid cream to soothe the area.
- Eat high-fibre foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and drink plenty of water to soften stools.
- Hold a clean pad gently against your stitches while pooping to ease discomfort.
- Ask your doctor about gentle stool softeners or laxatives if needed.
Breast Changes and Soreness
A few days after your baby is born, you might notice your breasts feel full, firm, and sore. This is called engorgement, and it happens because your breasts are filling up with milk, blood, and other fluids.In the first 3 to 4 days, your breasts produce colostrum. It's a nutrient-rich first milk, followed by regular milk as your supply adjusts to your baby’s demand.
If you struggle with breast soreness, try to breastfeed from both breasts regularly. A warm washcloth or a warm shower before feeding can also help with milk flow.
Your baby’s weight gain is the best sign that you’re producing enough milk.
Hair Loss and Skin Changes
During pregnancy, higher hormone levels make your hair grow faster and fall out less. That’s why many parents notice thicker, shinier hair while they’re pregnant.After your baby is born, those hormone levels drop, and suddenly your hair starts shedding more than usual. But don’t panic, this is quite common during recovery after a normal delivery. It can last for a few months, then eventually your hair growth will balance out and things will return to normal.
You might also notice stretch marks on your belly, hips, or breasts. These marks won’t disappear completely, but over time, they usually fade from red or purple to lighter shades. Any dark skin patches will also slowly lighten.
Navigating Emotional Changes
The lack of sleep and the demands of caring for a newborn can leave you feeling emotionally drained.
Many new parents experience what’s known as the “baby blues”. You might feel extra tearful, moody, anxious, or have trouble sleeping. It can feel like your emotions are all over the place. But the good news is this usually settles on its own within two weeks.
To make it a bit easier, talk about how you feel with your partner, family, or friends. Let them know what’s going on, and try to rest whenever your baby naps.
Recovery after normal delivery isn’t something that happens in just a few weeks, it’s a slow, ongoing process. Heal at your own pace and listen to your body. Remember, you just did something incredible, so give yourself credit as you recover and get stronger.
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 Your Recovery Journey After Vaginal Birth
- Do I need complete bed rest after a vaginal delivery?
No, gentle movement is actually helpful. Listen to your body and avoid heavy activity until cleared by your doctor. - Will periods return quickly after vaginal delivery?
No, periods may return after 6 to 8 weeks. However, breastfeeding can delay them for several months or up to a year.
