Expert answer:
Some care important that the woman should have during the shelter
- Emotional state: The abrupt hormonal fall that occurs in the postpartum period causes sadness, discouragement, insecurity and fatigue in most of the mothers. These symptoms can last up to two weeks and are considered normal. However, if persisting and associated with lack of appetite, difficulty sleeping, lack of concentration and interest, may be postpartum depression and need medical treatment;
- Sexual relations: They should be avoided during the shelter, for several reasons:
- The woman may feel pain and discomfort;
- The woman's reproductive tract is in recovery;
- Risk of infection, since the postpartum healing process is not yet complete;
- The hormone prolactin, which stimulates milk production, reduces libido and vaginal lubrication;
- Avoid overload in the region of surgical points, in the case of cesarean section.
- Food: It is important to maintain a balanced diet to support the calorie requirement of breastfeeding. Some recommendations:
- Drink 2 to 3 liters of water per day;
- Minerals, such as iron and calcium, remain fundamental and can be ingested primarily through red meat and dairy products;
- Consuming fruits with bark (apple, plum, pear ...) helps to combat intestinal constipation, common at this stage;
- Avoid heavy and greasy meals as they are passed on to the baby through the milk and the newborn's digestive system is not yet prepared for these foods;
- Coffee, dark greens, chocolate, cola-based soft drinks, lettuce stalk, beans and tomatoes should be avoided to not cause cramps in the baby.
- To drive:
- Normal birth: It should be avoided during the first month, so as not to interfere with the healing of the perineum. If the woman does not feel any discomfort, she can already drive from the second week of postpartum;
- Caesarean section: It is not usually allowed in the first month, so as not to disturb the healing of the sutures in the abdomen;
- Physical exercises: will depend on how active the woman was before and during the pregnancy. It is recommended to avoid races and other more intense activities during the first month after delivery. After this period, the woman can already take light walks, from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on her physical conditioning.
- Carry weight: It should be avoided in the 1st month, both for cesarean delivery and normal delivery;
- Climbing stairs: As long as there is no pain, it does not need to be avoided;
- Hair: Dyes should be delayed if the woman is breastfeeding, as these products may contain ammonia or formaldehyde and may intoxicate the baby.
For more information about the care that should be taken in the shelter, talk to the doctor during the postpartum follow-up visits.
