Young woman lying on her bed, healing from giving birthGiving birth is one of the most remarkable things your body will ever do. No matter whether you had a cesarean birth (C-section) or vaginal delivery, your body has been through trauma just the same. As a result, it is going to need some time to recover after giving birth.
 
Fully recovering from pregnancy and childbirth can take months. And while many women feel mostly back to normal by six to eight weeks postpartum, it may take longer for you to feel like yourself again. If you chose to place your baby for adoption, feelings of loss can be a big part of your experience.
 
As you recover, you may feel like your body has turned against you. But try not to get frustrated. Recognize that your body is not conscious of your expectations and timelines. The best thing you can do for your body is rest, eat well, and give yourself a break.
 
During your postpartum time, your hormones also will be shifting. As a result, you may find you’re more emotional or can’t think clearly. Again, give yourself time for this to pass.
 
To help you through your recovery, we have put together some tips to make things simpler. We share guidelines, but it is important to check in with your medical professional if you are experiencing anything that worries you. And if at any time you think about hurting yourself or your baby, make sure to tell someone.
 

Recovery from a Cesarean Section

  1. Follow all instructions given by physicians, nurses, or midwives in regards to keeping the incision site clean.
  2. Expect that vaginal bleeding should continue for approximately three to ten days. Use pads, not tampons.
  3. Mild, cramp-like pains in your lower abdomen are normal and are the result of your uterus contracting back to its normal size.
  4. Your incision site will likely be sore for a few weeks. Use pain relievers as prescribed by your doctor and do not lift anything for a few weeks.
  5. Breast engorgement will occur three to four days after delivery. Use of ice packs, a supportive bra, and mild pain relievers can help with this. Avoid hot showers during this time as it will stimulate milk production.
  6. Watch for signs of infection, including a fever, red and hot areas at the incision site, oozing from the incision, and an increase in pain and tenderness. Report any suspicions to your doctor immediately.
  7. Take it easy! You’ve had major surgery and recovery will take time.
  8. Your doctor will schedule a follow-up office visit in about six weeks. It is important to keep this appointment!

Recovery from a Vaginal Delivery

  1. Follow all instructions given by physicians, nurses, or midwives in regard to keeping your perineum area clean.
  2. Expect that vaginal bleeding should continue for approximately three to ten days. Use pads, not tampons.
  3. Mild cramp-like pains in your lower abdomen are normal and are the result of your uterus contracting back to its normal size. Ask your physician about pain relievers if needed.
  4. Your perineum and vaginal area will likely be sore. Use ice and warm compresses, and wear loose-fitting clothing to allow air to flow.
  5. Breast engorgement will occur three to four days after delivery. Use of ice packs, a supportive bra, and mild pain relievers can help with this. Avoid hot showers during this time as it will stimulate milk production.
  6. Watch for signs of infection, including a fever, foul-smelling thick vaginal discharge, abdominal pain, and an increase in pain and tenderness. Report any suspicions to your doctor immediately.
  7. Your doctor will schedule a follow-up office visit in about 6 weeks. It is important to keep this appointment!

Your Emotions as You Recover After Giving Birth

  • It is completely normal to experience feelings of loss after delivering your baby and seeing them go home with the adoptive parents you chose. This does not mean that you made the wrong decision to place your baby for adoption.
  • Try to identify the feelings you are having and put them in words through journaling.
  • Take care of yourself! Sleep, cry, be happy, ask for help, relax, and give yourself some time to bounce back into a routine.
  • Learn more about the Lifetime Adoption Foundation Birth Mother Scholarship program by visiting LifetimeFoundation.org. Making plans for your future will help you focus and move forward.
  • Never hesitate to call your doctor for advice. If you feel something is “off” emotionally or physically, reach out for help. Trust your instincts.

As you recover after giving birth, know that Lifetime Adoption has an amazing network of assistance for our birth mothers, including referrals, counseling, and support from peers. You can even chat with another woman who placed her child for adoption. As you recover from delivery, take the time to seek out the help and support you need. Call or text Lifetime at 1-800-923-6784.