Not really expected and often unexpected, the return of childbirth marks the reappearance of a young mother's periods after giving birth. But when exactly does it occur? How do we recognize it? Is it painful? Does breastfeeding change anything and, above all, can you get pregnant even before your period returns?
SUMMARY :
- The return of diapers: solving the mysteries of postpartum bleeding
- When does the return of diapers occur? Decoding the period calendar after childbirth
- Symptoms of returning from diapers: a non-exhaustive list to keep in mind
- 6 tips for a smooth recovery
The return of diapers: all the mysteries of postpartum bleeding
The return of childbirth marks the resumption of the new mother's menstrual cycle following her pregnancy. After 9 months of amenorrhea, the body and the uterus gradually return to normal functioning, with, again, ovulation, periods and the ability to conceive . However, postpartum periods can be more painful, more abundant, shorter or longer depending on the woman.
Return of diapers and lochia, what are the differences?
The return of childbirth is also often confused with lochia, this post-delivery blood loss generally accompanied by debris (cervical mucus) and clots, linked to the healing of the uterus. More abundant than periods (after childbirth, a woman loses around 500 mL of blood), lochia gradually diminishes over the days and weeks following birth.
💡 Good to know: if, in your maternity suitcase , you have been recommended to add XXL sanitary napkins, mesh panties or adult diapers, it is to contain lochia.
When does the return of diapers occur? Decoding the period calendar after childbirth
From one woman to another, everything can be different. However, we know that the return of diapers occurs on average 6 to 8 weeks after giving birth . For some mothers it will be sooner. For others, later.
This is especially the case for breastfeeding mothers for whom the return of the cycle can wait until the drop in lactation , the baby's dietary diversification , or even the end of breastfeeding . For what ? Because prolactin, the hormone that regulates the production of breast milk, also blocks ovulation and prevents the secretion of estrogens (the sex hormones mainly produced by the ovaries).
👉 Also read: natural contraception and the MAMA method (Breastfeeding and Amenorrhea Method), does it really work?
👀 Between lochia and the return of diapers, you will be able to experience the small return of diapers. Generally less abundant, this bleeding after childbirth lasts about a week and can be recognized by its darker color, red-brown to brownish. Lochia, relapse of diapers and return of diapers are normal physiological phenomena that should not worry you.
Symptoms of returning from diapers: a non-exhaustive list to keep in mind
Just like their onset date, the symptoms associated with the return of labor can vary from one mother to another. Besides, if you have had several children, you may have experienced this. However, here are the signs that usually announce the return of your menstrual cycle after childbirth.
- The return of more or less long and heavy bleeding .
- Cramps and abdominal pain due to the uterus contracting to return to its normal size.
- Mood swings , extreme fatigue or changes in libido if you have already resumed sexual activity are also harbingers of the return of diapers.
Overall, you will be able to feel and recognize the signs of premenstrual syndrome : pain, abdominal cramps, fatigue, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, hot flashes, tender breasts, lower back pain, change in appetite, etc.
📌 If your bleeding really seems too heavy, if you have to change your sanitary napkin every hour, if your discharge is smelly or if you have been bleeding for too long, make an appointment with your doctor without waiting for the next post-natal consultation.
And the baby returning from diapers, does it really exist?
Yes ! Let's be clear, after pregnancy, you can get pregnant before you have even returned from childbirth . This is also why we talk to you about contraception even before you leave the maternity ward. Incredible and sometimes difficult to live with, the story is nevertheless true since it is entirely possible to expect a new child without having had your period, even if you are breastfeeding your baby.
Breastfeeding can only be contraceptive if it is exclusive and the baby breastfeeds very regularly, day and night . But, nature is sometimes mischievous, think about your future method of contraception before your baby is born.
6 tips for a smooth recovery
The return of diapers can be a very uncomfortable period, particularly sensitive and difficult to live with. Even if you are swimming in happiness with your baby, you are not in the best shape, fatigue is intense and new responsibilities are looming.
Your cesarean scar is probably still causing you pain, the trenches - these typical uterine contractions - are hurting you, the baby blues may already be showing up and your periods are coming back with a vengeance, more determined than ever to overwhelm you . If you haven't already, it's time to take good care of yourself.
- Forget tampons and instead use period panties or sanitary towels, which are more comfortable and soft for your intimacy.
- Adopt the intimate gel reflex to avoid the development of mycoses.
- Discover herbal medicine . Antispasmodic, calming and anti-inflammatory Roman chamomile to combat baby blues and postpartum pain, eleuthero, ginger and ginseng against fatigue and the risk of depression or even decongestant and hemostatic witch hazel to help avoid trenches and postpartum metrorrhagia.
- As soon as possible, treat yourself to a hot shower which will help you feel better about yourself.
- In bed, adopt the combo of period panties, sanitary towel, towel on the bed and hot water bottle , for more comfort and peace of mind.
- On the advice of your doctor or pharmacist, take analgesics to relieve your pain.
Finally, to gradually regain shape and well-being, ask for good meals to be prepared for you, for sushi or spring rolls to be brought to you and drink plenty of mineral water to eliminate. Rewatch your favorite films and series, treat yourself to an ultra-comfortable chair to enjoy them and tell yourself that the physical and emotional roller coaster you experience postpartum will eventually pass!
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