Not really expected and often unexpected, the return of childbirth marks the reappearance of menstruation after a young mother's delivery. But when exactly does it happen? How can we recognize it? Is it painful? Does breastfeeding make any difference, and above all, can you get pregnant even before your period returns?
CONTENTS :
- Returning from childbirth: unraveling the mysteries of postpartum bleeding
- When does the return of childbirth occur? Decoding the menstrual calendar after childbirth
- Symptoms of returning from childbirth: a non-exhaustive list to keep in mind
- 6 tips for a smooth recovery
The return from childbirth: all the mysteries of postpartum bleeding
The return from childbirth marks the resumption of the new mother's menstrual cycle following her pregnancy. After 9 months of amenorrhea, the body and uterus gradually return to normal, with ovulation, menstruation and the ability to conceive. However, post-partum menstruation can be more painful, heavier, shorter or longer, depending on the woman.
What's the difference between returning from diapers and lochia?
The return of childbirth is often confused with lochia, the post-delivery blood loss generally accompanied by debris (cervical mucus) and clots, linked to the healing of the uterus. More abundant than menstruation (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've been recommended to add XXL sanitary pads, mesh panties or adult diapers, it's to contain lochia.
When does the return of childbirth occur? Decoding the menstrual calendar after childbirth
From one woman to the next, everything can be different. However, we know that the average return from childbirth occurs 6 to 8 weeks after delivery. For some mothers, it's sooner. For others, later.
This is especially true of breast-feeding mothers, for whom the return of the cycle can wait until lactation has subsided, the baby's diet has been diversified, or even breast-feeding has come to an end. Why is this? Because prolactin, the hormone that regulates the production of breast milk, also blocks ovulation and prevents the secretion of estrogen (the sex hormones mainly produced by the ovaries).
👉 Also read: natural contraception and the LAM method (Breastfeeding and Amenorrhea Method), does it really work?
👀 Between lochia and the return of labor, you may experience the little return of labor. Generally less abundant, this bleeding after childbirth lasts about a week and can be recognized by its darker, reddish-brown to brownish color. Lochia, return of childbirth and return of childbirth are normal physiological phenomena that shouldn't worry you.
Symptoms of returning from childbirth: a non-exhaustive list to keep in mind
Just like their onset, the symptoms associated with returning from childbirth can vary from one mother to another. In fact, if you've had several children, you may have experienced them yourself. Nevertheless, here are the signs that usually herald the return of your menstrual cycle after childbirth.
- The return of more or less long and abundant bleeding.
- Cramps and abdominal pain due to the uterus contracting to regain its normal size.
- Mood swings, fatigue or changes in libido, if you've already resumed sexual activity, are also signs that you're back from childbirth.
Overall, you'll be able to feel and recognize the signs of premenstrual syndrome: pain, abdominal cramps, fatigue, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, hot flashes, tender breasts, back pain, changes in appetite...
📌 If your bleeding really seems too heavy, if you have to change sanitary pads every hour, if your discharge is smelly or if you've been bleeding for too long, make an appointment with your doctor without waiting for your next postnatal consultation.
Does the diaper baby really exist?
Yes, let's be clear: after pregnancy, you can become pregnant before you've even returned from childbirth. That's why we talk to you about contraception even before you leave the maternity ward. It's a strange and sometimes difficult story, but it's true because it's perfectly possible to expect a new baby without having had your period, even if you're breast-feeding.
Breastfeeding can only be contraceptive if it's exclusive and your baby feeds regularly, day and night. But nature can be mischievous, so think about your future contraceptive method before your baby is born.
6 tips for a smooth recovery
Coming back from childbirth can be a very uncomfortable, sensitive and difficult time. Even if you're swimming in happiness with your baby, you're not at your best, fatigue is intense and new responsibilities loom.
You're probably still suffering from your Caesarean scar, the trenches - those typical uterine contractions - are hurting, baby blues may already be kicking in, and your period is 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 use period pants or sanitary towels instead, which are more comfortable and gentle on your intimacy.
- Adopt the intimate gel reflex to prevent the development of mycoses.
- Discover phytotherapy. Antispasmodic, calming and anti-inflammatory Roman chamomile to combat the baby blues and post-partum pain, eleutherococcus, ginger and ginseng to combat fatigue and the risk of depression, or decongestant and hemostatic witch hazel to help avoid post-partum trenches and metrorrhagia.
- As soon as possible, treat yourself to a hot shower to help you feel better about yourself.
- In bed, adopt the menstrual panties, sanitary towel, towel on the bed and hot water bottle combo, for greater comfort and peace of mind.
- On the advice of your doctor or pharmacist, take analgesics to relieve your pain.
Finally, to gradually regain your shape and well-being, ask for good food, sushi or spring rolls, and drink plenty of mineral water to eliminate toxins. Re-watch your favorite films and TV series, treat yourself to an ultra-comfortable armchair to enjoy them, and tell yourself that the physical and emotional rollercoaster you're experiencing post-partum will eventually pass!
Les biberons Élhée accompagneront votre bébé de la naissance jusqu'à 24 mois et plus, pour lui permettre une parfaite autonomie, sans risque de casse.
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