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POSTPARTUM RECOVERY OVERVIEW
Materials
• Book : Settling In with Baby pages 2 – 14 .
• PowerPoint presentation : Settling In with Baby slides 5 – 32 .
• Visual aids : Postpartum Recovery , Postpartum Emotions , Cesarean Birth posters , videos , samples of postpartum supplies .
• Corresponding activities and handouts from Appendices B and C .
• White board , dry erase markers and eraser .
• Pens or pencils .
Introduction and value of the section
The postpartum time , or the six weeks following birth , can be challenging . Having a thorough understanding of what to expect can alleviate fears and build confidence . Taking steps to be prepared ahead of time can help prevent a new mother from becoming overly tired , poorly nourished or emotionally drained . As in all other areas of pregnancy and birth , parents should understand the various choices and options available to them .
Preview
• Parents will understand what to expect immediately following birth and in the weeks after , including what is normal and
Goals warning signs .
• Parents will identify and plan ahead for ways that they can keep the postpartum time as low-stress as possible .
Prior knowledge Basic understanding of labor , birth and female anatomy .
© PLUMTREE BABY , LLC
Key questions
• What physical discomforts and changes can you expect right after birth and in the following days and weeks ?
• What does normal recovery look like and what symptoms require medical attention ?
• What are some ways to speed healing and make your recovery as smooth as possible ?
• What are the differences between baby blues and postpartum depression ?
• How can you guard your mental health after having a baby ?
• What are your health , nutrition and fitness needs during postpartum recovery ?
• What can you expect once the six weeks is over ?
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