9 Ways to Care for Yourself after Giving Birth to Support the Mother's Recovery Process

Illustration of how to take care of yourself after giving birth to support the recovery process (Freepik)

YOGYAKARTA - Postpartum care is an important part that is often forgotten when family attention is directed at the newborn. In fact, the postpartum period is a period when the mother's body and mind need time to recover after going through the process of pregnancy and childbirth. By applying the right postpartum care, you can support the recovery process and be more ready to take on the role of a new parent.

The recovery period for each mother is not always the same. Some recover faster, some take longer, especially after cesarean delivery or complications. Therefore, do not hesitate to give yourself space to rest and receive help from the people closest to you.

1. Limit guest visits in the first days

The first days after giving birth should be used to rest and build a routine with the baby. If possible, limit guest visits or schedule visits so that you are not exhausted. This simple step also gives the body the opportunity to adapt and recover.

2. Keep cleanliness and take care of yourself

Bathing, changing clothes, or washing your face may sound simple, but it can make your body feel fresher and help improve your mood. Take a few minutes each day to take care of yourself. If necessary, ask your partner or family member to take care of the baby while you take a break.

Illustration of how to take care of yourself after giving birth to support the recovery process (Freepik/senivpetro)3. Consume nutritious food and drink enough

The body needs enough nutritional intake to repair tissues after childbirth and support the production of breast milk for nursing mothers. Quoting Mother Fit, Tuesday, July 7, increase protein consumption, vegetables, fruits, grains, and drink water as needed. In Indonesia, protein sources such as eggs, fish, chicken, tempeh, and tofu can be a practical and easy choice to obtain.

4. Don't hesitate to accept help

Caring for a baby is a shared responsibility, not just the mother alone. If your partner, parents, or relatives offer help with cooking, cleaning the house, or taking care of the baby, there is no harm in accepting it. That way, you have more time to rest and recover.

5. Give time for the body to recover

Every mother has a different recovery process. Avoid comparing your body condition or weight with the experiences of others as well as uploads on social media. Focus on health and your body's ability to recover gradually.

6. Start moving slowly

After getting permission from a doctor or midwife, try to do light physical activity, such as walking around the house or basic pelvic floor muscle exercises. Light exercise can help improve blood circulation, reduce body stiffness, and increase energy. Avoid strenuous exercise until the body is completely ready.

7. Enjoy the fresh air occasionally

Spending a few minutes outside the house can help refresh your mind after being indoors all day. You can take a leisurely walk in the yard or garden if your body condition allows. Exposure to morning sunlight can also help the body feel more fit.

8. Pay attention to mental health

Hormonal changes, lack of sleep, and new responsibilities can affect emotional conditions after childbirth. If you feel sad, anxious, or easily cry for a long time to interfere with daily activities, immediately consult a doctor or psychologist. Early support can help prevent mental health problems from getting worse.

9. Make the best use of rest time

Sleeping for hours may be difficult to do when you have a newborn. However, you can try to rest while the baby is sleeping or take turns with your partner to care for the baby at night. Adequate rest plays an important role in supporting physical recovery and maintaining mood.

Postpartum care is not only about recovering physical condition, but also maintaining the mother's mental health and well-being as a whole. Start with simple steps, such as eating nutritious food, resting, moving gradually, and receiving help from the closest people. By applying postpartum care consistently, the recovery process can go better so that you have the energy and readiness to accompany the growth and development of your little one.