What to Expect
Congratulations !
Your baby is here ! You have now entered the postpartum period ( sometimes called the fourth trimester ), which lasts about six weeks . These pages will help you understand what to expect and how to help your recovery .
Skin-to-Skin
Typically , your baby is placed on your belly right after birth and you begin to get to know each other . Holding your baby skin-to-skin ( also called kangaroo care ) is beneficial for both you and baby . ( See page 16 .) Skin-to-skin contact promotes the release of hormones , which help your uterus contract and start your recovery . It also helps baby transition and promotes bonding .
The Placenta
Through your pregnancy , the placenta helped your baby grow . It produced necessary hormones , provided oxygen and nutrients to your baby , and removed waste products from your baby ’ s blood . Once your baby is born , its job is done . Usually , the placenta detaches and is delivered within five to twenty minutes after your baby ’ s arrival . When it detaches , it leaves a wound inside your uterus that bleeds . Contractions help reduce bleeding . It takes several weeks or more for it to heal after birth .
Contractions After Birth
After your baby is born , your uterus is thick , stretched and large . It takes about six weeks for it to return to its prepregnancy size . In order to shrink , your uterus will continue to contract . These after-birth contractions can be strong and painful . They are often most intense right after birth and get less intense over the next few days . You may notice them more when your baby latches on to breastfeed . Breastfeeding releases oxytocin , which causes contractions and can help expel the placenta .
Occasionally , the placenta does not easily detach and deliver on its own , or takes too long . In this event , the health care provider will take steps to help the placenta detach and come out . These may include various medications and / or massage . Your health care provider will inspect the placenta after its delivery to make sure it has been completely removed .
Postpartum Recovery 3