Mummy and Me Magazine August 2014 September 2014 | Page 9

Pregnancy

What to Expect after Expecting...
R
ae, one of our consultant
Midwives gives great
information and advice on
‘What to expect after
expecting’...

So your baby is finally here but
what happens next? Midwives
perform an assessment of
Mum each time we visit so here
is what’s normal and what’s to
worry about.

All mums will lose some blood after their baby is
born this is normal and called Lochia. It is like
having a heavy period for around four weeks.
Lochia should be like your period in most ways
other than the initial heaviness and length of time.
You should contact your GP if you have clots in the
blood or if it has a foul smell.

Going to the loo after having a baby can seem like
a scary task at first but most mums find that they go
naturally and it is comfortable. It is important that
you do your pelvic floor exercises to maintain good
bladder and bowel function. If you find you have
difficulty controlling going to the toilet speak to your
midwife or GP who can offer support and referral
for physiotherapy.

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER EXPECTING

How are you? One of the most simple yet
extremely important questions you will be asked.
Postnatal depression affects approximately 1 in
10 women. Most Mums will have a bout of baby
blues a few days after their baby is born as their
hormones settle and they adjust to their new baby.
This usually resolves as swiftly as it appears. If this
is not the case then speak with your midwife or GP
as you may need some additional support.

It is possible you may have a tear or cut
(episiotomy) if you have a vaginal birth. Maintaining
good hygiene is of great importance. Change your
sanitary pad regularly and wash your hands before
you do so. Your midwife will offer to check your
wound to make sure it is healing and there is no
sign of infection, any stitches will be dissolvable
and will not need removing. If you have had a
caesarean section your midwife will care for this
wound too including removing any stitches/staples
where necessary.

Some mums will still have swollen ankles
immediately after birth and this normally settles
down pretty quickly. However if you notice any
abnormal swelling in one leg, soreness, redness,
bruising or heat then seek medical advice as these
are signs of a blood clot. Pay particular attention to
this post caesarean section and try to wear your
hospital tights for as long as you can.

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