Maybe this never crossed your mind but trust me there are foods you should absolutely steer clear of and Mama, I want you to be prepared! The main thing to remember is not to eat or drink anything for 8 hours before your cesarean section.

Mentally Preparing for a C-Section 

Let’s discuss other ways to prepare for a c-section because anticipating your C-section experience can help reduce surprises and promote better healing.

Be an active participant in your care and be sure to ask your doctor what to expect from your C-section. Mentally preparing for your birth experience can seem daunting at first, especially in the event of a Cesarean. It’s major surgery, after all—a surgery that is often stigmatized unfairly.

Few things can be more frightening than having to go into surgery without knowing what to expect. Fortunately, you have the power to get the information you need ahead of time.

Ask your OB/GYN to give you the full rundown of what to expect during a C-section. Check in with the hospital you’ll be delivering at as well to understand the basic protocols. If you are planning to deliver at home or a birth center, ask what to expect in the event of having to transfer into the care of a hospital for a C-section. 

Read books and articles from trusted, reputable sources. And don’t forget to ask other parents you know about their own experiences. This knowledge will set the foundation as you begin to mentally prepare for a C-section.

The benefits of meditation have been documented thoroughly for a wide array of applications, including surgery. And while we know meditation can be helpful for pregnancy, delivery, and beyond, it’s important to recognize that there are science-backed reasons to include it in your C-section birth plan as well.

The beauty of meditation is that you can incorporate it into your life in so many different ways. For some, unguided meditations in which you simply sit still in silence and focus on your breath can be helpful. 

5 Tips & Last Meals Ideas Before a Scheduled C-Section

It’s funny. The moment you’re told you can’t eat for like 8-10 hours before your c-section, that last meal is all you can think about! You may even be saving certain foods as a form of satisfaction before you meet your newest family member. 

Ask Des, there were MANY tabs open on my laptop because I was super curious of what the best breakfast before c section may be. Because I love peanut butter, I was very happy to find that is comes highly recommended. YUM! So, you don’t have to fill up your internet with the same question, I’ll make it easier for you. 

Here ya go, Mama! Check out the tips below to help guide your final meal before your c-section experience. 

1. Work in Soft Foods like Yogurt, Bananas, and Peanut Butter
2. Add a High-Fiber Item like Brown Rice, Prunes, or Avocado
3. Enjoy Lean Protein Paired with a Fat
4. Avoid Spicy Foods like Hot Wings and Salsa
5. Soup, Salad, and Sandwich Is Always a Good Option

What to Do the Night Before Your C-Section

The evening before your surgery you may eat and drink normally. You must stop eating eight hours prior to your caesarean section. However, you may continue to drink clear fluids up to two hours before the procedure. If you are on medication and are instructed to take it on the day of your surgery, you may take it with a sip of water only.

Clear fluids include:

1. Water, apple or cranberry juice, clear soda such as ginger ale, clear tea with or without sugar
2. No orange juice or any other juice with pulp
3. No milk, cream, or whitener
4. No gum or candy

Be sure to follow all of your doctor’s instructions for the night before surgery. These typically include bathing and not applying any lotions or powders to the skin, as well as instructions for how long you cannot eat or drink before the surgery.

If you are concerned that the night before c section can’t sleep, talk to your doctor who can prescribe a prescription sleep aid for the evening prior to your surgery. Your doctor may give you other prescription medications to be taken before your surgery as well.

Be sure to have your bags packed and ready to go in the car. You most likely will not need them until after the birth and can send someone down to the car to get them. This plan actually works better for most people, so you don’t have to keep track of the bags as you move from the triage area to surgery to the post-surgical care ward, and then finally, the postpartum area.

What to Pack for a Scheduled C-Section?

If this is your first birth or even first scheduled c-section, you may be wondering what to take to the hospital. Moms undergoing cesarean usually don’t need “time passers” like magazines and Netflix as moms who are having a vaginal birth do.

C-section labor is only as long as the operation, but the hospital stay is longer — typically 3-5 days versus 1-2 following vaginal delivery — because you will be recovering from childbirth and surgery. In the midst of all this packing, don’t forget about dad. He may need a few things in his hospital bag as he awaits baby’s arrival.

Plan on packing at least two hospital bags: one for the procedure and the other for your postpartum
stay. 

Here are some ideas for your C-Section procedure bag checklist:

• Folder or small bag for paperwork
• VIP contact list, including sitters for older children and pets
• Eyeglasses, if needed
• No-skid socks
• Lip balm
• Hair ties
• Phone
• Camera
• Charging cables for all electronics
• Music
• Snacks
• OTC medicine for birth partner

Here are some ideas for your postpartum bag checklist:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hairbrush
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Soap in a squeeze bottle
• Makeup
• Pillow in a patterned case that won’t be mistaken for hospital laundry
• Nightgown
• Towel, shower shoes, and bathrobe
• Underwear with a high waisted band that sits above your incision
• Bras (2) – nursing bras if you plan to nurse, or sports bras if you don’t
• Breastfeeding pillow to keep baby off your incision
• Slip-on shoes, so you don’t have to bend over
• Going home outfit for mom
• Going home outfit for baby
• Installed car seat
• Extra-long charging cable for devices

I recommend having your bag packed and in the car by 37 weeks. No matter when your c-section is scheduled if your water breaks – sis, it’s time to go!

What to Expect at the Hospital? 

You can use your c-section birth plan to write down anything that is important to you about your pregnancy and the birth. Your healthcare team will try to meet your wishes where possible.

Most hospitals strive to make a cesarean delivery as family friendly as possible, with Mom awake (but appropriately numb), her partner in the room and a chance to meet, greet, cuddle, and possibly breastfeed baby (if you so choose) right after delivery if there’s no medical reason not to.

And because you aren’t preoccupied with pushing or pain, you’re often able to relax and marvel at the birth.  Fortunately, this is a fast operation, with the procedure itself lasting just 10 minutes or less, followed by another 30 minutes or so to stitch you back up.

What will the procedure look like?

A typical C-section is straightforward and follows a tightly scripted game plan. The procedure begins with a routine IV and anesthesia — usually an epidural or spinal block, so the lower half of your body will be numb, but you’ll stay awake.

Then you’ll be prepped by having your abdomen shaved (if necessary) and washed with an antiseptic solution. The operating room staff will insert a catheter into your bladder and place sterile drapes over your tummy. Your birthing coach or partner will be outfitted in sterile garb and allowed to sit near your head and hold your hand.

The emergency room staff will place a short screen blocking your vision of your abdomen, so the field remains sterile and so you don’t have to watch yourself getting cut.

However, you may opt for a “gentle C-section”, so the drape will be clear; otherwise, you can also ask for a mirror to watch. Even if you don’t want to see the cut, you may want to catch a glimpse of your baby as she emerges, so ask your practitioner to lift the little cutie up for a quick peek after delivery!

It’s unlikely that you’ll feel any pain during the procedure, apart from a bit of tugging or pressure as the baby is removed. You’ll be numb from the waist down if you’ve been given a regional anesthetic, which means you’ll be awake during the operation and when your baby emerges.

Do’s and Don’ts After a C-Section

A c-section is a major operation, and you will need time to recover. This can take about 8 weeks but may take longer. Make sure you are stocked up on the essentials you’ll need to recover after your c-section. After having a baby by C-section, it’s normal to experience pain, soreness and even bleeding. After all, you’ve just had major abdominal surgery — your body needs time to recover. It also means you will need to be more aware of what you can’t do as your body heals.

If possible, ask friends and family for help when you come home from the hospital. Ideally, you should
have someone to help you at home day and night for at least the first 2 weeks. Your recovery is going to be harder than if you’d had baby vaginally, so all hands need to be on deck.

If you have older children, prepare them for what they can expect when you come home. You won’t be able to pick them up, but they can climb gently onto your lap while you’re sitting on the sofa, or they could cuddle up next to you.

Recovery after a c section

Your main focus is to rest, Mama. Be still and bond with your new bundle of joy! The biggest change is going to be with your physical activity until you are fully healed.

Walking is permitted and encouraged, it helps to keep your blood flowing and reduce clots as well as constipation. Keeping up with your hygiene routine by showering daily is also very helpful for your incision scar. 

Remember, you are recuperating from a surgery, be aware of the wound! Do not participate in rigorous activity or do core muscle exercises until your doctor clears you for activity. Steer clear of lifting anything heavier than your baby. You may want to refrain from having sex, taking baths, or using tampons until you have your doctor’s okay. 

This may seem quite limiting but I promise you Mama, this moment is only temporary, and your main focus should be to rest and heal. The last thing I want to recommend is please do not be afraid to ask for help. Taking care of yourself after having a c-section is just as important as taking care of your newborn. Allow yourself to take it easy. Rest whenever possible and call your doctor if you have concerns about your health. 

Do You Have Questions or Concerns?

I have compiled a list of questions you may still be curious about. Undergoing this procedure can be scary and being well informed can ease those nerves! I want you to be prepared and excited to meet your baby. Although this is a surgery, don’t forget this is also a new beginning!

What Is Recovering From A C-Section Like?

After delivering your baby by C-section, your doctor will tell you how to care for your incision. Thus, you will want to keep the area dry and clean. Use warm, soapy water to wash your incision daily (this can be done when you shower). If your doctor used tape strips on your incision, let them fall off on their own. This usually takes about a week.

When Should I Stop Eating Before A C-Section?

Remember, you do not want to eat any solid foods within 8 hours of your arrival time and you may have only clear fluids up until 2 hours before your scheduled cesarean. 

How Should I Sleep After C-Section?

You should get as much rest as possible, especially in the first few weeks after a C- section. Considering that the surgery involves an incision over the abdomen, it can be hard to find a comfortable position that doesn’t place unnecessary pressure on your healing wound.

Likewise, it’s not uncommon to feel discomfort at the incision site for a while, which can make it difficult to fall or stay asleep. With that in mind, you might want to consider a few different sleeping positions that will help reduce pressure on your incision and make it easier to fall asleep. Such as on your back or your side. 

What Should I Eat After Delivery?

Taking care of your body after surgery means getting the right nutrition. You will want to drink enough water and other fluids. Eat a well-balanced, healthy diet. Take a fiber supplement daily. This can help avoid constipation. I know you want your body back ASAP, but Mama, please refrain from any crash diets. Ask your doctor when you
can start trying to lose the baby weight.

Conclusion

Whether you are undergoing a planned or emergency c-section, taking care of yourself after having a c- section is just as important as taking care of your newborn. Allow yourself to take it easy. Rest whenever possible and call your doctor if you have concerns about your health. And most importantly, remember YOU GOT THIS!

The post What Is The Best Last Meal To Eat Before C-Section appeared first on Not So Perfect Momma.

Some of these helpful apps for new mommas are completely free, others are free but have a premium version available, and others do cost a minimal amount. They all have the potential of making your life as a new mom easier. I’ve separated them based on categories to make it easier:

Best Baby Sleep Apps for New Moms

As a new momma, you may be wondering, when, if ever, you’ll get back to a full nights rest. Thankfully there are some techies who completely understand our sleepless pain. These are some of the best apps to help parents and babies get some much needed rest.

White Noise Baby

Newborns are used to falling asleep to the sounds of our hearts beating. So not having it can make it hard for them to sleep. The White Noise Baby app lets you choose from a variety of different white noise sounds that you can put on to help lull your baby to sleep and to help keep them asleep. 

The white noise sounds that you can choose from include a heartbeat, vacuum cleaner, rain sounds, car ride, a fan, and more. This app is convenient because you can just download it on your phone and use it wherever your baby might need to take a nap. 

Huckleberry: Baby & Child

Alright, where are all my sleep deprived mommas at? New or veteran, this app is for you! Consider it like having a sleep expert right in your pocket. Four month sleep regressions? Day and night time confusion? Huckleberry is perfect no matter the sleep situation. With expert sleep advice, this app puts the answers right at your fingertips.

Looking to see if your newborn has any sleeping patterns? Track their naps and bedtime sleep using the built in tracker. And with customized sleep plans (as a part of their premium subscription) that will actually take your families sleep routine into account, this is one app all new mommies must have.

Cloud Baby Monitor

At this point, buying a baby monitor can be looked at as basically a waste of money. Especially when apps like Cloud Baby Monitor allow you to turn any two devices into a video monitor system. Using a live video feed Cloud Baby Monitor app will notify you when baby moves or makes a noise. It even allows you to talk / sing to baby from anywhere. Perfect for when mommy is on a Target run and dad is having a hard time getting baby to sleep.

The Apps all traveling mommas need

Whether its a quick trip to the park, or you and your newborn are taking their first plane ride, these apps will help you keep your sanity to and from your destination.

Baby Pack & Go 

Packing up your newborn to leave the house even just for a couple of hours takes practice, and leaving for a weekend or vacation almost guarantees that you will leave something important for your baby at home. That’s where the Baby Pack & Go App comes in handy. This app allows you to make lists ahead of time with their templates so that you don’t forget anything at home. 

You can make individualized lists for each child that you have, and even for your pets. This app can really come in handy to make sure that you are prepared with everything you need away from home. 

Baby Tracker

Baby Tracker is a great all-in-one app for new mothers, meaning that it can help you track everything you need to know about your baby. From the last time they ate, to when their diaper was changed, or the last time a medication was administered you can access it all at your fingertips. This app also lets you track the amount of time and milk you last pumped, how long the baby breastfed and on which side, and how long they napped for. You can also enter your baby’s medical history, and track their growth. This app allows multiple caregivers to log in and check on the baby which makes it really convenient. 

Sit or Squat

Sit or Squat is an app by Charmin that helps moms find clean restrooms where they can change their baby when they are out in public. The app can help you find the cleanest restrooms near your current location. A bathroom gets a sit review if it is clean, and a squat review if it could be cleaner. If you find a great clean bathroom make sure that you leave a review for other moms to find it as well. 

fed is best and so are these apps that help you track newborn feeding schedules

Formula or breast, as long as baby is fed and you didn’t lose your sanity in the process, I’d call it a win win. Check out some of the best apps to make that happen for new parents below:

MilkMaid

Designed to help pumping moms build their stash, this app has been featured in New York Times, Parenting and Babytalk Magazine. So how exactly does it help you? By organizing bottles and bags of milk via pump date (so you don’t have to). You can record when, how much, and which bags of milk were used that day, to keep your inventory up to date.

It also allows you to have separate locations for each stash. Storing milk at grandmas, set an expiration date for this bags so you know when to use them by. Same for daycare, work or any customized location you want to add.

Ovia Parenting & Baby tracking app – great for multiple children

This must-have app for new moms is perfect if you’ve been looking for a baby feeding app that can track monthly milestones such as lifting head, bringing hands to face, rolling over, etc. This baby feeding tracker app not only tracks feeding sessions but can also log the progress of multiple children at once. Things such as diaper changes, sleep, milestones photos and more.

The Ovia Parenting & Baby tracking app also happens to house a plethora of articles and education for new parents. Looking to share special moments, synch it to your family calendar for an easy picture and video sharing experience. (FYI: In addition to the parenting app, Ovia Health also offers a fertility app and pregnancy app).

Baby Connect 

The Baby Connect app is another all-in-one baby tracking app that can be shared with your partner, sitter, or daycare provider. Keeping everyone in the loop on the last time baby ate, napped, or was changed. This app can be used across all platforms, and it can be used for multiple children. You can track information from the previous day or week in graph form so that you can see growth spurts happening in real-time, and you can even leave messages for other caregivers within the app. 

Looking for ways to connect with other moms

Motherhood, while one of the most rewarding jobs on the planet, can feel kind of lonely at times. These apps do more than just track baby milestones. They connect you with other parents. Learn and grow with other mothers, even find some in your area. These are some of the best apps for new moms looking to make mommy friends, because we all know how hard that can be.

Peanut App

Sometimes being a new mom can feel a bit lonely. Especially if you don’t have any other mom friends or family nearby. That’s where the Peanut app comes in handy. Think of it as MeetUp for moms. It provides a platform for you to meet with moms in your area or talk to them in a safe online forum. 

Created by one of the designers of Bumble, the dating app, this mom felt disconnected. Looking for a way to meet and talk about the struggles of being a new mom with other moms, Peanut was born.

Tiny Beans

Most new parents want to take and share photos and videos of their new little one. But that thought of sharing them online can be scary. So if you’re hesitant about sharing that’s where the Tiny Beans app comes in. Tiny Beans is a secure place online where you can store your baby’s pictures and videos. Allowing you to share them privately with loved ones. 

You can add stickers, filters, and even captions to your pictures and videos. You can print off photo books and pictures whenever you like. The Tiny Beans app is free but there is a paid option. With either a monthly or yearly subscription, it unlocks additional features. 

Other most have apps for new moms

These apps are some that I recommend no matter the occasion. Need a quick dinner? Don’t feel like going to the store, or maybe your precious bundle of joy isn’t acting so precious anymore. These apps have got you covered.

Instacart

Baby’s need lots of things like diapers, and wipes, and eventually you are going to need groceries. Instacart can help you to get all of the things you need delivered to your door. No need to leave the house with your newborn. That is, unless you want to.

Simply place your order, and have your items delivered to your door within a matter of hours. They even have gift cards available. So if this is an app you think you will use after your baby is born, adding them to your registry is a great option.

The Wonder Weeks

The Wonder Weeks app is another great app for first-time moms that helps you track your baby’s developmental milestones. It breaks down mental leaps, their timelines and even the purpose behind them. Which may even help you figure out why your baby is fussier this week than they were the last. It also helps you track crying, crankiness, and clinginess. All important signs that your baby is learning and growing. One of my favorite features is the way it helps you make the most of each developmental leap. Loaded with suggestions, games, and advice for you and your baby.

Getting used to motherhood can take some time and there is no doubt that you will suffer from brain fog, and sleepless nights during those first few months. Pick a couple of these apps that you think would be helpful to you and give them a try. Having a way to easily track information for your pediatrician and other caregivers will help to make your life easier. Do you have any other apps for new moms to share? 

The post 10 Of The Best Apps For New Moms appeared first on Not So Perfect Momma.

Whether you’ve made it here pre or post birth, having your c-section recovery essentials on hand will only make things that much easier. Recovery after a cesarean delivery is a lot different than recovering after a vaginal birth. Which means what is needed for you and baby may also differ. Having a major surgery the same time as bringing new life into the world is no easy feat. Planned or emergent, c-section recovery can come with different challenges than a vaginal birth. Knowing that in advance can help better prepare you for what to expect.

C-section Recovery Essentials From A Mom Of Five

I personally have had three c-sections, two that were an emergency and one planned. While each experience had its own unique challenges here are a few c-section recovery essentials that can helped make the process a little more comfortable. 

Pain relievers

While the hospital typically prescribes pain meds before you even leave, those will only last so long. With time the worst of the pain will subside, but your body may very well still be sore. Having some over-the-counter pain relievers available at home will come in handy.

* Important to note*

If you are breastfeeding/pumping check with your obstetrician or pediatrician before taking any medications. Some medications can be transmitted via breastmilk and may not be safe for baby.

Stool Softeners

Going to the bathroom after major abdominal surgery can be uncomfortable, to say the least. And with most narcotic pain medications causing constipation, things can get even worse. Adding in straining, which can cause abdominal pain and discomfort to the mix, makes for one painful cocktail. But that’s where stool softeners can come in handy. Try to take stool softener each day. That with staying hydrated can make going to the bathroom a lot more comfortable. 

Disposable Underwear

Even though you did not deliver your baby vaginally you will still have postpartum bleeding. This bleeding can be quite heavy at times, so most new moms prefer disposable underwear. Im a fan of the the mesh underwear they provide you with at the hospital until the bleeding subsides. But once you get home, that may be hard to find. But don’t sleep on Depends. Especially at night, when things tend to get extra messy.

I often get crazy looks when I recommend them, but Depends truly are a life saver. They hold more, are super comfy and you don’t have to worry about any leaking. Perfect for postpartum when you have enough on your plate.

Maternity Pads

Maternity pads are larger than traditional maxi pads and they fit well in disposable underwear. These pads are great for those first couple of weeks of postpartum bleeding which can be quite heavy. After the first week or two, your bleeding should become less and darker in color. At this point, you will be able to use overnight or regular maxi pads, if you prefer. I personally used Depends for my entire postpartum bleeding period.

*Important to note*

If bleeding becomes heavier, or a brighter red in color, content your OBGYN. This could be a sign that you need to reduce your activity a little bit. Which I know is easier said than done. But please remember, you are taking care of a newborn AND recovering from major surgery. 

Scar Prevention

If you would like to keep your c-section scar as small and light as possible, adding some scar prevention strips or cream to your postpartum c-section recovery is essential. The scar may be tender, tingling, numb, or itch for up to a year after your surgery. While all of these things are normal, these strips help alleviate some of that. If your incision causes pain after the initial healing period, you will need to let your obstetrician check it. 

Abdominal Binder

An abdominal binder is an essential for c-section recovery because it can help you be a LOT more comfortable. The binder helps to provide you with support and compression on your abdomen and around the incision site. The compression and support can help you to move around. Making it easier for you to care for your newborn as you recover. In my experience some hospitals will provide one prior to your discharge. However one of my cesarean births I did not receive one.

Boppy Nursing Pillow

There are several nursing pillows out there to choose from and they all have their pros and cons. The Boppy pillow tends to be the favorite of new moms who are recovering from a c-section. And a favorite of mine. It doesn’t matter if you are breastfeeding or not, the Boppy pillow fits comfortably around your waist. It can provide support to your abdomen and your baby during any kind of feeding.

Loose Fitting Clothing

Any clothing that presses tightly against your abdomen is going to be uncomfortable. Stretchy, loose-fitting clothing will be your best bet for the first few months after your delivery. Many new moms choose to skip pants completely when they are at home and instead wear a soft, loose nursing gown and a robe. 

Freezer Meals Are Essential For Recovery

C-section or not, having pre-made meals after birth is a God spend. Filling your freezer with meals that you enjoy before delivery will make mealtime much smoother. You can create some of your own using some freezer safe containers. Or you can request friends and family drop by with their favorite frozen meals once baby arrives. This way you know that you have meals that you love to eat that are quick and easy to heated up. Which ever method you choose, consider having a double batch of a few of your favorite soups, stews, or casseroles. 

Co-sleeper

Getting in and out of the bed after a c-section can be quite uncomfortable. Having a place for your new baby to sleep right beside your bed can be quite helpful. Newborns need to eat every couple of hours so having them safe and cozy right next to your bed can make things easier on you for feedings. And it helps with being able to keep a close eye on them. To lessen some of those momma worries we all get.

Feeding/Changing Station

Moving around a lot after a c-section is uncomfortable, and your body needs to heal. Stairs are not recommended more than once per day during the first few weeks of a c-section recovery. So if you have some in your home, consider setting up a central feeding / changing station. Something as simple as a rolling cart would be perfect. It’s portable and has lots of shelves to hold everything you and baby need.

Your feeding and changing station should have diapers, wipes, extra clothes for you and baby, diaper rash cream, and burp cloths. If you are breastfeeding you will want to include some breast pads and some nipple cream. You will be doing a lot of feeding and changing so a bottle of water and snacks are not a bad idea either! 

Help From Family And Friends Is The Perfect C-Section Recovery Essential

Taking care of a newborn baby while recovering from major surgery is a LOT. It’s a lot physically and emotionally and you will need the help, love, and support of your partner, friends, and family. You will not be able to do everything on your own so accept help when/if people offer it. Your friend comes over to see the baby, asks if they can load or unload the dishwasher for you. Your mother-in-law asks if she can drop some groceries off or watch the baby while you take a nap? Say yes! 

Many of these c-section recovery essentials are the same as they are for a vaginal delivery, but some of them are specifically for moms who are recovering after a c-section. Even if you’ve had a c-section before, things can change so knowing what you may need and what to expect can make the experience ten times better. C-section recovery essentials can also differ from person to person. Based on personal experience. If you have any suggestion leave them in the comments below!

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Depends are a must for any new mom’s postpartum journey at home

It doesn’t matter if you have a c-section or a vaginal delivery there will be bleeding after the birth of your baby. This bleeding can last for up to six weeks. Maternity pads, similar to the ones that they give you at the hospital, are an okay choice post delivery, but for full coverage and less stress I always recommend Depends. Yes, you read that right. I was first introduced to them as a postpartum essential after my fifth child. My midwife sent me home with a pack and if I ever have any more children, I will be sure to stock up. Depends are perfect for the first week or two (or three). Besides being super comfortable, they prevent bleeding through onto clothes, sheets or else where during the first few days when bleeding can be its heaviest. They also eliminate the whole pads in mesh underwear thing, which can be an annoyance all its own.

Of course, if you’d prefer pads, the hospital will most likely send you home with some. After the first week or so you should be able to switch the heavy flow pads. And then down to regular pads shortly after. Remember, that you should not use tampons, menstrual cup or anything else that needs to be inserted into your vagin. It is best to wait until after your doctor has okayed it.

Mesh underwear

These are another hospital item that the hospital may send extras home with you. And honestly, while not the most beautiful underwear choice they are comfortable, hold the big maternity pads (sort of) and are disposable. Which makes for an easier clean up. As I’ve mentioned I personally don’t care for them. This is because far too often my pad didn’t stay in place. Which meant I ended up destroying some of my most comfy lounge pants. Not everyone has my luck though, so these are worth stocking up on. And you can order mesh panties online if you don’t think your hospital will be generous. 

a peri bottle is a postpartum essential you have to at home. trust me, you’ll thank me later

This is something I knew nothing about until my fourth child. While the hospital I delivered at gave me one during my stay they did not send me home with one. And for some reason, I was naive and thought I couldn’t take anything home with me. Hopefully you are sent home with a peri-bottle from the hospital, birthing center or your midwife provides you with one. However, if you have more than one bathroom, it may be more convenient to have a peri-bottle in each one.

Having one of these bad boys on hand will grant you so much relief. Listen, to put it nicely, your vagina is going to be swollen, extra sensitive, and maybe even recovering from being torn. A peri-bottle used with warm water whenever you feel the need, will help soothe some of the pain, keep your perineal area clean, and promote healing. They are also especially wonderful to keep things from getting a little dicey down there after going to the bathroom to urinate. Take it from me, tearing and trying to urinate without one is asking for trouble.

Formula

Yes, mama, even if you are planning to exclusively breastfeed, you may need to have formula. This can be used in case of emergencies if you have to leave your baby and you don’t have milk pumped ahead of time, or if you are having breast milk supply issues. If you never need it, you can always donate it to a local shelter when the expiration date is nearing. Its always better to be safe then sorry. And please remember, FED is best.

Bottles

You will need to have some bottles on hand even if you plan to exclusively breastfeed. My husband and I would start introducing our exclusively breastfed children to bottles around 4 weeks. Just an ounce or two at a time. it helped them get used to a different nipple so when I had to return to work the stress of me not being there for feedings wasn’t so hard on them. Also, it allowed me a chance to rest from around the clock breastfeeding too. Having dad do a few of those middle of the night feedings was a huge help.

Also realistically sometimes things don’t work out quite as planned. And that emergency formula you have won’t do you much good with nothing to put it in. Because again, focusing on fed being the best method for baby, means we want to be ready for any possibility.

Nursing Bra

After birth, your breast can be so tender. From engorgement and sore nipples having a bra to support your tender breast is what you are going to want momma. But with that, you will want to stay away from wires, if possible. Which is why I recommend a nursing bra. Even if you aren’t planning to nurse, these bras still offer support but are also uber comfortable and help keep milk from leaking through to your clothes. Plus if you are nursing you’ll get all of these same comforts and the added convenience nursing bras offer.

Breast Pads

You will need to have some breast pads in your postpartum essentials kit at home whether you plan to breastfeed or not. Every new mom makes milk and if you don’t have something to soak it up you can be very uncomfortable, and wet! 

Have plenty of Freezer meals stocked up at home or even gift cards to your favorite restaurants for your postpartum journey

Taking care of a newborn and recovering from delivery are hard work, and you are probably not going to feel much like cooking in those first few weeks. Try to stock your freezer with premade casseroles, dump meals that you can put in the crockpot, and other very easy to put together meals. Buying gift cards to your favorite restaurants, DoorDash / Uber Eats or asking for some at your baby shower are also great ideas. I do not think anyone can accurately prepare you for how tired you will be after baby. Having ready to eat meals, or quick dinner options will make taking care of your newborn that much easier.

Snacks

Your freezer isn’t the only thing in your kitchen you should stock before your new baby arrives. Make sure that you have a good stock of healthy snacks, preferably that you can eat one-handed, ready for you at home. Protein bars, nuts, fruits and granola bars are some good options, and you can keep some near your nursing/feeding station as well. You will likely forget to eat, and if you are nursing you will be hungry a LOT! 

Numbing products are a good send and should be on all new moms postpartum essentials to have at home list

For some reason, very few new moms know about the numbing products available to them to make their recovery a little easier. Im telling you now, you’re going to want to have some ready at home in case you need it. There are different types of products available including sprays, foams, and creams. They simply numb and in some cases cool the area to give you some relief from your discomfort. Which, when everything down there is swollen, will be a Godsend. Dermoplast is the most popular choice with postpartum moms, and the one I used. It being spray made it easier to use, plus it has a cooling factor that’s great for use after a trip to the bathroom. 

Over the Counter Pain Relief

You may come home from the hospital with a prescription for pain meds, but it is never a bad idea to make sure that you have a supply of your favorite over the counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. I know for me personally, the amount of people who are becoming addicted to pain meds scares me, which is why I opted for something a little less in strength. Again, that is my own personal fears, the pain medications prescribed are not meant to cause addiction and I truly believe if taken as directed won’t be a problem. Its important to note that if you are nursing look for pain relief products that are safe for the baby. 

Hot/Cold packs

Heating pads and cooling packs can be a lifesaver for any postpartum mom. You can use the cold or hot packs on your perineal area or your swollen tender breasts. Pro tip: using the heat packs just before nursing or pumping can make letdown easier. Another tip: a heating pad is great for uterine contracts.

And last but not least, Stool softener

Going to the bathroom after delivery, c-section or vaginal, can be less than pleasant. And some of the medication you receive after birth, such as narcotic pain relievers or even Iron supplements, can cause constipation in many women. Which obviously only makes the situation even worse. Have some gentle, stool softeners on hand so that you can take them if you need them. Before I left the hospital I requested a prescription for some just so I knew what I was taking was great for me and baby, as a breast-feeding mother.

This isn’t a complete list, but it’s a good start…

Most new moms have absolutely everything they could possibly need to care for their newborn in the house before they head to the hospital. But we often forget, or don’t think about, ourselves. It is very important to make sure that you practice self-care from the very beginning. Having the things on hand that you need to make your postpartum journey as smooth as possible is key. Make yourself a list, here’s one for dads, and start stocking up on the postpartum essentials that you need to make your recovery and transition into motherhood as smooth as possible.

The post 12 postpartum essentials to have at home and why you need them appeared first on Not So Perfect Momma.

Sis, we create life! I’ve come to terms that my body will never be what it once was, but that doesn’t mean that I should just give up. No, I love my mombod. 

Sidenote: Let’s make that a thing; Dad’s get dadbods, we should get mombods! 

I will say my body did snap back best after baby number 1, but number 2? I had tuh-rouble! So, let’s talk about some of the best practices to not only give yourself grace after having a baby but will also help jumpstart your journey to get back in shape after baby number 2!

Why It Is Harder to Lose Weight After a Second Baby

Rest assured, you are not the only one who’s ever asked themselves, “why can’t I lose weight after having a baby? For many moms, it is much harder to lose weight after a second baby. It is in this moment that you begin to realize that losing weight includes more than just working out, it’s about your overall health and wellness. 

Mama, with your second baby you may not bounce back as fast, and for some really obvious reasons:

It’s harder to get a workout in.

When you have one child, you’re able to get them in a stroller and head out for a walk or run. It’s much easier to sneak in a workout when they’re asleep or occupied. When you add another one to the mix, you now have to get two of them to get out the door, in the stroller or distracted so you can try to bang out a workout. It certainly is not an easy task.

Your sleeping pattern affects your weight.

With more than one child, you probably are not sleeping much. Sleep has an effect on our metabolism, so when you aren’t getting the rest you need, your cortisol levels spike which doesn’t allow you to metabolize calories as well.

You may not have much time to plan your meals.

Taking care of one child is exhausting. Taking care of two is even more so. It’s more difficult to plan healthy meals for yourself. Let’s face it, sometimes the crust to your kid’s grilled cheese is lunch, and before you know it, it’s dinner time and you eat the entire contents of your pantry because you haven’t taken a moment to eat all day and your hunger catches up to you.

Many women go through the baby weight battle. It’s not in vain either. I get it — seeing your stomach after second baby can be quite frustrating and it is hard to see our bodies change. Just try to remember the journey it has been on, and in the grand scheme of things, extra weight will come and go, but even if it never goes, we aren’t less of a mom over a few unwanted pounds.

Average Time to Lose Baby Weight

The good news is that you can start losing baby weight as early as the first few weeks after giving birth. On average, new moms lose around 13 pounds due to the baby’s weight, the amniotic fluid, and the placenta when giving birth. The week after you deliver, you’ll likely shed several more pounds as you lose other retained fluids, like any extra water you’ve retained or the extra blood your body produced during pregnancy.

Mama, your body needs time to recover after giving birth, so allow your body time and give yourself grace. In general, waiting until your postpartum checkup, which occurs within 12 weeks of giving birth, to begin intentionally losing weight. I get it sis, I know it would be great to begin losing weight as soon as possible after pregnancy. While it is possible to do so and achieve postpartum weight loss. Choosing to do so safely is your best bet for a long term result, try incorporating breastfeeding, eating a healthful diet, and exercising.

Keep in mind, how long it takes for a woman’s body to go back to normal after pregnancy differs from person to person. And with each pregnancy that can still change. So amount of time it takes to get back in shape after baby number 2 may be completely different from the first time around.

Tips to Lose Weight & Get Back in Shape After Baby Number 2

Your body is beautiful, Mama. Depending on how active you were before and during your pregnancy will have a large impact on what comes next for your body. Snapping back after number 1 may have been easy, but baby number 2 is proving to be a little more difficult. Below I’ll provide a list of tips to lose weight and get back in shape. Oh, by the way, these are the same tips I’d use for losing weight after baby number 3!

1.Set Realistic Goals:

Despite what magazines and celebrity stories would have you believe, losing weight after pregnancy takes time. Let’s face it, your body after second baby is different but special nonetheless! Drastic weight loss is unrealistic and can only be achieved through unhealthy methods. It is usually recommended that you wait a couple of months before actively trying to lose weight. If you’re breastfeeding, a calorie deficit that’s too strict might affect the quality and quantity of your milk supply. Keeping this in mind, try a gradual approach to lose those extra pounds. Losing approximately a pound and half each week is a safe and realistic goal.

2.Drink Plenty of Water

Mama, staying hydrated is key! Drinking enough water is vital for anyone trying to lose weight. Choosing water over just one 20-ounce sweetened beverage can save you 240 calories. It is said that drinking water may increase your sense of fullness and stimulate your metabolism, leading to weight loss.

3.Pair Lean Protein with Every Meal

A diet high in protein for post-pregnancy weight loss is super effective. You still need two to three servings of protein daily, but make sure you’re not having more than 3 to 4 ounces per serving, from lean sources like lean meat, fish, and turkey. If you are breastfeeding, your body requires extra nutrients and protein to help sustain milk production. 

4. Replace Breakfast with a Green Smoothie and Protein Powder

Aim to get your nutrients in early so you don’t have to think too much about it later! Protein powder is such a realistic, simple way to consume very clean and healthy protein as a busy mom. Realistically you won’t always have the time to cook healthy during the day. Protein shakes are such an easy, one-handed option to really have a healthy snack or meal. Keep in mind, having two children may look different from the first time around. Which could mean finding alternatives to meals that still offer the nutrients you need to get back in shape after baby number 2.

5. Limit High Sugar and Refined Foods

This is one of the quickest ways to lose weight after having a baby. Though they may be tempting, sugar and refined carbs are high in calories and usually low in nutrients. And there are healthy and delicious alternatives. It’s easy to reduce your sugar intake by avoiding processed foods and sticking to whole foods such as vegetables, legumes, fruits, meats, fish, eggs, nuts, and yogurt.

6. Breastfeed if Possible

It is said there are many “weight loss benefits of breastfeeding”. Our body burns between 400 and 500 calories per day making breast milk, which come from your diet as well as the fat you stored during pregnancy. That calorie-burning boost is enough to help some moms get back to their pre-pregnancy weight without doing much else. Breastfeeding also stimulates the release of hormones that help shrink your uterus and your post-baby belly.

7. Go for Walks (and Push a Stroller!)

Exercise alone won’t make you lose weight, but it will keep your metabolism up and tone your muscles. Aerobic activities, such as walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming can help you lose weight and improve your overall health. Getting in shape after baby doesn’t have to be boring or exhausting. You can even do it with your children and new baby with you. Walking is one of the easiest post baby exercises, and it can help you ease into a more intense routine. Remember to check with your doctor to make sure your body has rested enough and is ready to start exercising after giving birth.

8. Remember Exercises After Childbirth Look a Little Different

If you were active before and during pregnancy, your doctor might recommend waiting a month before doing more intensive workouts, such as crossfit, cycling, running, and high intensity interval training (HIIT). You can also try modified exercises that include holding your baby for a great post pregnancy ab workout to reduce your stomach after second baby. When you do begin, take it slow, start with just 30 minutes a day, be mindful of diastasis recti if you have it. How quickly you can exercise after your second baby depends on your individual circumstance. So be sure to check with your healthcare provider to know if it is safe for you to begin working out after baby.

9. Pair Small Bursts of Cardio with Simple Crunches

In addition to moderate cardio, a postpartum workout should focus on building up the muscles of your torso (which took a beating when you were pregnant). Every mom can benefit from core strengthening. Some women also experience a separation of the abdominal wall muscles, which is called rectus abdominis diastasis. Exercises that target this condition can bring the muscles back together again.

10. Wear Some Sort of Postpartum Support

Light compression from abdominal wraps can support your natural transverse abdominal when you can’t contract it yet. Belly wraps support your body after second baby by acting as a “splint” for the muscles that have separated during pregnancy (something that happens in all pregnancies, BTW, to make room for a growing uterus)This could help you be more conscious of using your abs.

11. Supplement as Needed (Fish Oil Is Especially Important)

You just gave birth to a living being, Mama. Your new bundle literally sucked the life out of you, so you may need to consider incorporating a multivitamin of some sort for any deficiencies you may have especially when trying to getting back in shape after baby number 2. I recommend heavy consideration on fish oil. There is some preliminary evidence to suggest that the omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish and fish oil, have an antidepressant effect. It has been discovered that mothers transfer DHA (a primary structural component of the human brain health) to their baby during pregnancy and through the breast milk to support neurological development in the developing child. Thus, child-bearing women may become depleted of DHA. Having a DHA deficiency may make mothers more vulnerable to depression during the postpartum period.

12. Do Kegel Exercises to Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor

After delivery, it’s relatively common to have some bladder leakage caused by prolonged pushing or a forceps- or vacuum-assisted childbirth. This is usually temporary. I recommend performing Kegel exercises can help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles so you can regain bladder control more quickly. If leakage is really bothering you, ask your gynecologist if seeing a pelvic health therapist would be of benefit.

13. Don’t Neglect Your Mental Health

Getting to a healthy weight is important, but take care not to let your weight become a cause of stress or anxiety. Getting your body back after baby is so much more than just weight loss. If you feel you aren’t coping well, ask for help from your family, friends, or medical practitioner. 

14. Schedule Care for Your Toddler While the Baby Sleeps So You Can Rest Too

You already know this is a tough one. Your little one wants you around the clock. But doing whatever you can to get adequate sleep will benefit you. A lack of sleep can negatively affect your weight. I know, getting enough sleep can be a challenge. Strategies that may help include asking for help from family and friends and limiting your caffeine intake. Don’t forget: Your health is just as important as baby’s health, so ask for help to get the sleep you need.

15. Get Outside and Soak Up Some Sun for Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a hormone that influences metabolism and immune function. Your body acquires vitamin D through sun exposure. Now is the time to develop an active lifestyle for sustainable weight loss. It is often confused with exercise; however, both are different. Staying active does not mean exercising, but it means reducing the overall time that you spend sitting or laying. And the more you get outside, the more vitamin D you will get. Which can help boost your metabolism making getting back into shape after baby number 2 a tad easier.

Learn to Love Your Body After a Second Baby

All women are different, and getting fit after pregnancy might be easier for some moms. As long as you eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly after birth, odds are that you’ll lose the extra pounds sooner rather than later. 

Don’t be discouraged by magazines that show celebrities getting back in shape only weeks after delivery; do what is best for your body and your baby, and the weight loss will follow. It is absolutely possible to get back to your pre-pregnancy shape, but I encourage you to love your body as it is. Real postpartum bodies take time to “snap back”, and that’s okay as long as you’re healthy. Even if you find that you can’t lose baby weight 2 years later, keep going Mama, you got this!

So…Here’s the Truth to Getting Back in Shape After Your Second Child

Carrying some extra weight after pregnancy is very common and nothing to get down on yourself about. Your body did an amazing thing. But getting back in after baby and within a healthy weight range is beneficial for your health and any future pregnancies so it’s definitely worth working at. Being healthy will allow you to enjoy time with your baby and get the most out of being a parent. The best and most achievable way to lose weight is through a healthy diet, breastfeeding, and exercise. Talk to your healthcare team for tips, advice, and support.

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Real Talk? Here’s How Long It Takes to Recover After Giving Birth

Your postpartum recovery won’t be just a few days. Fully recovering from pregnancy and childbirth can take months. It is possible to feel mostly recovered by 6-8 weeks, but it may take longer than this to feel like yourself again. People don’t really like to talk about what happens after giving birth, but I think we should, because it can be overwhelming. During this time, your hormones will fluctuate. You may not be thinking clearly and be more emotional. Give yourself time for this to pass. 

However, if at any time after childbirth you think about hurting yourself or your baby, tell someone. 

During this time, you may feel as though your body has turned against you. Try not to get frustrated. Remember that your body is not aware of your timelines and expectations. The best thing you can do for it is rest, eat well, and give yourself a break. 

During the first six weeks, pay attention to your body. You will be tired and focused on your baby, but try to notice changes with your own body. Remember that you also need to take care of yourself, too. This is very important as you heal. As you begin to feel better, resist the temptation to do more. Overdoing things at this point can set you back in your recovery. Concentrate on nourishing your body with good foods, drinking plenty of water (especially if you are breastfeeding), and getting enough rest.

What NOT to Do After Having a Baby

There are many things you can look forward to doing after birth, like sleeping on your stomach again or eating pineapple. However, there are things you should avoid after giving birth. One thing you should not do after giving birth is put anything in your vagina. Depending on your birth experience, you may be surprised by how much bleeding you have. It’s possible you had vaginal repair, so those areas will be healing. When you use internal period products, like menstrual cups or tampons, bacteria can form and cause infection in these wounds. The bleeding after birth lasts between 2 and 6 weeks, so use pads during this time or until your doctor tells you it’s safe to do otherwise. 

Other things not to do include:

Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself 

We can build these things up in our minds, and just like a birth plan can go out the window. Whether it’s breastfeeding vs formula, whether it’s how you look vs your expectations of how you’d look…. give yourself grace. 

Don’t Even Think About the Baby Weight Just Yet

Our postpartum bodies can feel and look like something out of a nightmare. But it is completely unrealistic to think we should look anything like we did 9 months previously – give yourself some time! And give yourself a BREAK! You just made a person. That is way more amazing than squeezing lumpless-ly into a bikini. You NEED healthy calories right now, to heal, to make breastmilk, to replace the blood you lost, to give yourself the energy to take care of your new family member.

Once you’re adjusted to new mom life and healed, you can start trying to lose the baby weight… but this is not the time. Go ahead and enjoy a burger.

Don’t Lift Anything Really Heavy

You are still in the postpartum phase, therefore, your muscles still have to recover. It’s not just about giving your body time to rest.  Mama, you could actually do some damage by lifting something heavy so soon after childbirth. Your muscles need time to recover.

Don’t Get Discouraged if You’re Breastfeeding

Don’t assume that breastfeeding will be like second nature to you.  It takes time, patience, and practice.  Lots of practice. Don’t be disappointed if your baby doesn’t latch on straight away. Most women don’t know what they are doing the first time around. If you are concerned about being able to properly breastfeed your baby then you should consider taking a breastfeeding class. These classes are not only informative but they will show you skills that need to successfully breastfeed your baby without feeling the need to quit.

Don’t Be Afraid to Say “No”  

Like to visitors, or obligations, or requests from others. Everyone you know will probably want to visit, especially your closest family and friends. You may not have the heart to say no, but it’s what’s best for your new family.

Even though you may not feel like it’s a big deal, it will put added stress on you and your baby. This was something (among others) that I struggled with a lot after each baby. And it’s one of the things that prompted me to write “The Girlfriends Guide To Motherhood.”

Don’t Wear Tight Clothes

As your body is trying to get back to normal, you will be sweating and leaking all kinds of things, the last thing you need at this point is tight clothes. Not only will this be hard on stitches, SIS — you have earned a month in your sweats and pjs. Enjoy it!

Don’t Forget How Important Sleep Is 

Taking care of a tiny person really is taxing those first few months and you will undoubtedly get used to being up all night. Mama, sleep when you can. Choose sleep over the doing the dishes or even taking a shower.

Don’t Stop Your Prenatal Vitamins

I know they’re called PREnatals but that doesn’t mean your body doesn’t need these same nutrients anymore POSTnatal! Your body is working overtime now to heal and get back to normal

Don’t Eat a Bunch of Junk Food (It’ll Make You Feel Worse)

Although keeping your baby nourished is your main focus after giving birth, nourishing your own body is also very important.  If you’re breastfeeding, your body also needs between 450 and 500 extra calories a day to support milk production. Depending on your weight, this may mean you need to aim to consume 2,500 calories each day. Some ways to support your nutrition during the postpartum period include eating whole foods, like fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. 

Don’t Rely on Dr. Google

This might seem like odd advice coming from an article you likely found… on google… but if you suspect something is wrong with you or your baby, googling it is a bad idea for two reasons:

1. If there is nothing wrong, it will still freak you out
2. If there is something wrong it won’t fix the problem

Talk to your doctor, talk to your mom, talk to friends that have kids – but don’t rely on Google.

Don’t Strain During Potty Breaks (Try Stool Softeners)

You’ve done enough straining. Straining can cause bleeding, damage stitches (or healing tissues), and it will outright hurt!

Don’t Swim Just Yet 

Sitting in a lot of water can cause water to go “up” and can take bacteria with it. Avoid infection by not getting in a pool or a full bathtub.

Don’t Jump Back into Your Exercise Routine (If It’s Strenuous)

Even if you were in great shape pre-baby, you still need to go slow and let your body heal! You can start light exercise once your doctor has given you the OK – but jumping into a cardio routine too soon puts you at risk for bleeding.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

With all the demands of newborn life, you may feel isolated and overwhelmed. If you have a partner, they are hopefully playing an equal role in taking care of your baby, but they may not be able to do it all. Reach out to your family and friends or consider joining a local parent group. If you have the means, you may consider hiring a postpartum doula or another professional for added support.

Don’t Forget to Show Dad Some Attention 

You may feel like you don’t have time, but try your hardest to make some. That might mean setting aside half an hour at the end of the day to chat in bed. Or to have breakfast together. Maybe even going for a walk once a week. Being a new parent is difficult. Both of you are likely to make mistakes – to snap, to argue, to be occasionally distant – because both of you are dealing with something challenging and new. Part of maintaining a healthy relationship is making time to have fun together – so you might like to think about putting aside some time to do just that. This can include having someone come over to help with baby while you two get some alone time, when you’re ready of course. There is no time line on when to do this.

Don’t Try to Do All The Things During Baby’s Nap

I know, it seems like there’s a million things to do once you get home with your new baby. There’s laundry to be folded, dishes to be washed, and beds to be made. It may seem best suited to do while baby is asleep, but those things can wait until you’re feeling better! 

For now, when you would have a minute break to clean the house, just rest instead! You’ll be happy you did. A well-rested mama is a happy mama!

7 Things to Keep in Mind During Your Postpartum Recovery 

Pay attention to your body in recovery after birth. Your body will feel different and there are a few things you may experience that are normal and some that are alarming. Do not be afraid to contact your doctor if you feel concerned. Here is a list of possible symptoms and things to do during your postpartum recovery:

1. Cramping 

The cramps after giving birth are known as afterbirth pains, or afterpains. They are caused by contractions of your uterus as it returns to its prepregnancy size after you have your baby. Cramping will be most intense for the first day or two after giving birth, but it should taper off around the third day.

2. Swollen Feet

After childbirth, the body needs time to recover. Eating properly, resting, and sleeping more than usual will help the body to return to a healthy state. Try the following home remedies can help to reduce postpartum swollen feet after giving birth by increasing circulation: drink water, elevate your feet, compression socks, avoid salt, drink less caffeine or improve circulation with a postpartum massage!

3. Hemorrhoids 

Hemorrhoids after giving birth are common, but will usually go away on their own. Depending on their size, location, and severity, this can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. There are several things you can do to speed healing time and reduce discomfort such as: drink water, avoid straining, adding fiber to your diet, keep the area clean and apply a cold pack. 

4. Walking and Exercising 

While you may not be able to exercise much at the beginning of your postpartum recovery, you should keep moving as much as possible following childbirth. Try to start walking a bit as soon as you are cleared to do so. It can help relieve symptoms like fatigue, constipation, and gas

5. Back Pain 

You’ve just finished the mother of all workouts, so it’s normal to feel some muscle soreness throughout your body following birth. And you may feel the aftereffects of your hard work for a few days. You can expect to feel especially sore anywhere you held a lot of tension during labor, such as in your arms, back, neck or jaw.

6. Bathing

Taking a long soak in the bath after giving birth may have to wait for a bit. However, physicians agree that nearly all women who deliver – whether by cesarean or vaginal – can take a sitz bath. A warm, shallow (like 2-3″ of water) soak for up to 20 minutes in the bathtub for the area between the anus and vagina.

7. Postpartum Baby Blues

Most new moms experience something that’s often referred to as the “baby blues.”  Women with baby blues may experience mild anxiety, irritability, or feelings of depression. Other symptoms include trouble sleeping and feeling weepy for no reason. The baby blues can last a few days or up to two weeks and usually resolve without treatment.

If you have more severe symptoms that last longer, then you may be struggling with postpartum depression (PPD). 

How to Take Care of Your Body After Delivery 

Many things are happening in your body right after you have a baby. During pregnancy, your body changed a lot. It worked hard to keep your baby safe and healthy. Now that your baby is here, your body is changing again and how your body changes in the weeks after birth will look. Some of these changes are physical, like your breasts getting full of milk. Others are emotional, like feeling extra stress.

Many discomforts and body changes after giving birth are normal. But sometimes they’re signs or symptoms of a health problem that needs treatment. Go to all of your postpartum checkups, even if you’re feeling fine.

Fact vs Fiction: How Long You Have to Stay in the House After Giving Birth 

Deciding when you leave the house after giving birth should not be planned and written in stone in advance before you have your baby. It’s very much dependent on a few factors such as: 

• What type of birth you had
• How you physically feel
• How you mentally feel

If you have a C-section walking long distances may be tricky for the first few weeks. If you have a vaginal birth you may still feel extremely tired and sore a few days after birth. On the other hand, a short walk to get some fresh air may be just what you feel like a few days after giving birth. 

We All Have Questions. After 5 Sweet Babies, Here’s What I Think

When can I start doing household work after delivery?

It all depends on the delivery! For a c-section, you will not have maximum strength until around 4-5 weeks postpartum, but it is safe to walk, go up and downstairs and do very light housework, but only when you’re feeling up to it!

Mothers who have delivered vaginally will also want to avoid heavy lifting but can do light housework as long as it doesn’t tire you out or put your body at risk. For the first several days, take things extra slow and be sure to get help from friends and family. 

Are there any restrictions after giving birth?

Regardless of your delivery method, you should proceed with caution and make your highest priority caring for you and your baby. Focus on managing your postpartum body changes and all the painful and uncomfortable things you may feel after giving birth. Be patient with yourself and allow plenty of time for healing before focusing on your surroundings!

What are afterbirth pains?

Afterbirth pains are belly cramps you feel as your uterus (womb) shrinks back to its regular size after pregnancy. The cramps should go away in a few days.

How long should I rest after birth?

Rest whenever you can. Delivering a baby is hard work and you probably weren’t able to sleep much in the hospital. The first few weeks after delivery are an important time for you to rest whenever you can.

When is it safe to be intimate again postpartum?

There’s no definitive timeline that says how long you should wait to have sex after giving birth. However, most doctors recommend women wait four to six weeks following a vaginal delivery. After your doctor has given you the all clear to resume sexual activities, you may still need to take things slowly. You may also need to wait longer if you have a perineal tear.

Either way, Mama — your baby’s finally here, and you’re thrilled — but you’re also exhausted, uncomfortable, on an emotional roller coaster, and wondering whether you’ll ever fit into your jeans again. While recovering from delivery can be a lot to handle, things will get easier. Just keep in mind our list of what not to do after giving birth and before you know it, you will be able to fully focus on enjoying your new baby!

The post What Not to Do After Giving Birth & How to Recover Well appeared first on Not So Perfect Momma.

Your first day with your baby will be exciting and emotional, as doctors and nurses examine him or her to ensure that they are a healthy baby — oh and to teach you the essentials of caring for a newborn! While you may have already mapped out what your post-delivery hospital stay will entail, your first 24 hours with a newborn baby will be hectic. Your new bundle will be twice as busy as you are! Heck, five minutes after arrival, they are poked, pricked, measured, tested, cleaned, and swaddled. That’s a lot for someone who has just been floating and baking for 9 months. 

What You Need to Know About Newborn Care Immediately After Birth 

Labor and birth is a shock to the system, and not just for you! For babies, the birth has been exhausting, and they are now in an unfamiliar world. The space around them after birth and the feeling of air on the skin is new and strange. Inside you, your baby’s oxygen supply came through the placenta directly into the bloodstream. The moment they emerge into the air once born, the change in temperature gives the lungs a signal to start working, taking their first gasp of air, usually accompanied by the first cry.

Your newborn baby will be put on your chest for skin-to-skin contact. Your baby needs sleep and food, and they need to feel secure and warm, so they need to feel your skin. Being skin-to-skin is very important because it helps them regulate their temperature, breathing and heart rate after birth.

The first hour after birth when you will have uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact with your newborn is probably one of the best moments as a new mom ! This period of time is an integral factor in your breastfeeding journey if you choose to do so. At this moment, your baby is very alert and responsive so feeding at this time is ideal. After the first feed, the baby may sleep for 6-8 hours and would be normal to feed perhaps only 3-4 times in the first 24 hours. Babies generally have a capacity to see objects and colours from birth but only from a distance of around 8-15 inches which is approximately from the mothers breast to her face.

What to Expect Your First Night with a Newborn at the Hospital 

A baby’s first day of life is cause for celebration. But after a day full of labor and delivery and the joy of celebration, the first night with a newborn can bring everything back to reality. For babies born in a hospital, the good news is that there is help nearby to help a new mother figure out her new role. The bad news is that those helpers also have a job to do that can make getting a little sleep even harder and that contains lots of testing on mom and baby.

Unfortunately, newborns sent to the nursery as frequently anymore. Hospitals expect new parents have to be up to the task right away. Nurses take on the role of mom coach during that first night, although many women are reluctant to ask for help. They feel the weight of responsibility right away, even though their bodies are still recovering and they have eager sidekicks at the push of a button.

How HOme Births differ

If you deliver at home, labor management might differ from what you experience in a hospital setting. Within your first 24 hours with newborn at home your midwife will periodically, rather than continuously, monitor your temperature, pulse, blood pressure and your baby’s heart rate. She will stay with you for some time then return later to check on you and your baby. 

All About Baby’s First 24 Hours

If you’ve ever wondered what newborns do in the first 24 hours in the hospital, here it is! 

Seconds after your baby is born, a cry should sound out, kick-starting the lungs. Quickly after, nurses will remove any amniotic fluid and mucus from your newborn’s mouth and nose to ensure both nostrils are fully operational. Your baby should begin to breathe on his or her own.

Nurses will also evaluate your newborns vital signs. Checking for physical responsiveness, and assigning an Apgar score. During these initial tests, a nurse will check the heart rate, listen to the lungs, assess color, monitor activity level and test reflex response. This “score” will be between zero and ten. Depending on what you’ve requested, the umbilical cord can be snipped during this time as well.

Your new bundle will receive a few protective measures to prevent medical issues shortly after birth. As long as you are both well, you and your baby can spend the next couple hours bonding and learning to breastfeed. Within the first 24 hours after birth either a nurse or your pediatrician will give baby a Ballard score. Based on your child’s length, head circumference and chest circumference, it is used to confirm gestational age. The nurse will also check the pulse, feel the abdomen, verify finger and toe count and ensure genitals have formed properly.

During the first four to 22 hours of life, your nurse will probably help you with many of your baby’s firsts – such as babies first bath and diaper change. You will also learn how to properly hold and swaddle your newborn, how to care for his or her umbilical-cord stump and his circumcision site if you opted for this procedure.

Talk about a heavy load of testing! Now you see why skin-to-skin contact is so important. During skin-to-skin contact, the love hormone, Oxytocin is released, enabling newborns and mothers to learn each other’s special scent. In these first moments after birth, you and your bundle will begin to bond. 

Newborn Feeding

For the first 24 hours your breasts will produce colostrum to feed your baby. Colostrum is a rich, fatty food, full of antibodies that protect your new baby. If you choose to breastfeed, you will be offered help to get your baby latched on. If you decide to bottle feed, the hospital may provide bottles of formula milk.

Don’t worry if your little one seems uninterested to begin with: they will be tired from birth and may just want to sleep. You will have plenty of opportunity to keep trying over the next day or so. While some babies take to breastfeeding immediately, others need a bit of time and practice. It’s also important to remember that your baby’s stomach is currently the size of a small marble, so they will get full easily and may need a break before trying again.

 Should I wake my newborn to feed?

A lot of “experts” say you shouldn’t let your newborn baby go longer than 3 hours between feedings which means if your baby keeps sleeping past that mark, it is okay to wake them up to eat. Dream feeding (feeding baby while they sleep) is also an option as is waiting until they wake. I’ve personally done all three and have not seen a difference. So I suggest doing what works best for you and makes you the most comfortable.

If you notice your baby not eating in the first 24 hours, this happens most often when babies don’t get enough skin-to-skin contact with you soon enough or long enough after birth. Remember the Golden Hour? Be sure to take advantage of this moment Mama. Oxytocin causes a newborn to seek out and latch on to its mother’s breast. The hormone floods the body during breastfeeding.

How much should a baby eat the first day?

Breastfeeding the first 24 hours with a newborn can be tough. Sore nipples, weird postioning, and uncertainty around the amount your baby is getting can make it pretty overwhelming. Especially if it seems like your newborn isn’t eating much at all. This is normal so don’t be worried. It might help to know that babies are born with several days’ supply of fluid and stored fat to get them by until they’re ready to feed.

While every baby is different, on average, a healthy newborn will only drink about a 1/2 ounce in colostrum over the first 24 hours of life. A newborn should be put to the breast at least every 2 to 3 hours and nurse for 10 to 15 minutes on each side. An average of 20 to 30 minutes per feeding helps to ensure that the baby is getting enough breast milk. It also allows enough time to stimulate your body to build up your milk supply. So what happens if your baby is eating for a shorter time period?

Is a 10 minute feeding long enough for a newborn?

While it is ideal for a newborn to eat for 20 to 30 minutes per feeding (which equals 10 – 15 minutes per side) if baby is extra sleepy and just not feeling eating, do not stress. I’ve breastfed FIVE babies and all of them were like this the first few days, especially my smaller ones. It is completely normal and something they will grow out of as time passes.

While I am not personally well versed in formula feeding, I found that for newborns, 1 to 3 ounces at each feeding every three to four hours seems to be consistently recommended. Making sure to gradually increase ounces, as baby demands more. But cautious not to push baby to take more then she wants.

Sleeping That First Day 

Enjoy this while you can, Mama. You have a long journey ahead! Newborn sleep in the first 24 hours lasts longer than when they are awake. Your baby may sleep for at least 18 hours of the first 24 hours, maybe even longer.

How much does a 1 day old baby sleep?

Your 1 day old baby may sleep 2-3 hours at a time per nap. Some newborns will sleep up to four hours during naps. No matter the length, your baby will wake frequently to eat. After feeding they might go back to sleep or stay awake long enough for a short play.

While sleeping your baby may make snuffling noises, but don’t worry, this is totally normal! Their airways are just getting used to the atmosphere and their new environment. Another common habit for newborns is periodic breathing; they may breathe quickly, pause for a few seconds and then start breathing again. This is also very normal.

Crying, Pooping & Other Behaviors

With such long hours of sleep, you may be surprised that your baby is not very not crying. Well that’s simply because they do not have the time! Lol. However, babies crying is their only way of communicating their needs. When your baby does cry, offer them your breast if you’re breastfeeding. If you’re formula feeding, check whether they need a bottle. 

There are many reasons your baby could be crying including: tired, too hot or cold, maybe they’re missing close contact. Keeping your baby near you will help you to learn their cues. If your baby is crying a lot, it may be more difficult for you to latch them comfortably onto your breast. While feeding your baby during the day, talk softly to them. Your voice and the sound of your beating heart, which they’ll have been used to hearing while inside your uterus, will help to soothe them. Your baby will also be reassured by your smell, which they will already be able to recognize as Mommy. Smell is one of your newborn’s most powerful senses. So keep baby close, Mama! 

All this talk about eating, what about digestion? Where does it all go and how does it look? In a baby’s first 24 hours their first poo will be made up of something called ‘meconium’. This is sticky and greenish black. After a few days the poo will change to a yellow or mustard colour. Breastfed babies’ poop is runny and doesn’t smell. Formula-fed babies’ poop is firmer, darker brown and smellier.

NO matter what, remember you got this!

It is totally normal to feel overwhelmed the first day with your newborn baby. It might even seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Your mommy instincts are always worth listening to! If you don’t feel prepared, don’t panic – most new parents feel overwhelmed. Try to relax and enjoy the first few days of life – you’ll be parenting like a pro in no time! 

The post What to Expect the First 24 Hours with a New Baby appeared first on Not So Perfect Momma.

The first few days and weeks after having a child can be some of the hardest, especially if you’ve had cesarean. Recovery after c-section can be tricky and may leave you feeling overwhelmed. Let’s not forget about the very horrible mom guilt that can came up as well.

With all of this, recovery after c-section can seem almost impossible, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are my top five tips for recovery after a c-section for anyone who recently had one or is anticipating this as a possibility.

What Will Recovery After C-Section Look Like?

While recovery after cesarean may look different for everyone, there are a few things what will be the same. The scar will hurt, like a lot. This is completely normal so do not be afraid to mention it to your doctor or loved ones. If you are like me, you may not want to take may medication for said pain, but if you need to, take it mama. No reason to be in more pain then you need to. With that being said, it is important to get as much rest as you can the days following your surgery.

Tip 1 For Recovery After C-Section: Rest.

I know, everyone is going to tell you to sleep when baby sleeps, and while I whole heartedly agree with this, getting rest does not necessary mean sleep. Rest for recovery after c-section can mean taking it slow. Laying it down when your body tells you to. Or just mentally resting (which is a whole other conversation in itself).

It’s important for you to realize that your body just went through a major surgery. It may not seem like it, but that’s exactly what happened. The lower half of your abdomen was cut open and now it needs to heal. Which, means lots and lots of rest. So listen to your body. If you’re in pain, sit down. If you feel exhausted, lay down. If you can’t seem to get your words together and it’s hard to think straight (it happens)  lay down. Doesn’t mean you have to sleep, although sleeping would be good, but it does mean you need to rest. So prop your feet up and binge watch The Office on Netflix.

Which brings me to my next tip: pillows!

You Will Want All The Pillows For Your Recover After C-Section.

Pillows, pillows and even more pillows. Like I mentioned above your scar will likely hurt. And even if you have the best mattress money can buy, laying on a flat surface for hours on end will do a number on not only your back but your c-section scar as well. So just like when you were pregnant, gather up all the pillows in the house and stuff them wherever you see fit. Under legs, behind your back, shoot even sit on some if it makes you feel better. And don’t be ashamed, I take my title as the Pillow Monster very seriously whenever I’ve had a baby.

Moving Around Helps With Recovery After C-Section.

I know it may sound counter productive, especially since i just told you to get as much rest as you can, but hear me out.  I’m going to assume your nurses/ doctors had you get up and move around in the hospital, and there was a reason for that. Besides that fact that it helps with constipation (something I cover below) it also helps with the healing processes. The key here is to take it slow.

Getting up and going on short walks are good for you, but whatever you do, do not do so until you’re ready. And even then, take it slow. The first few days home will seem like a whirlwind of feeding, changing, and just getting your mind wrapped around having a newborn. Perfectly normal. But once that has passed, an important step in recovery after c-section is movement.

Walk to the the door from your bed a few times a day. Walk to the kitchen and back. And if you’re up for it, walk to the mailbox and back. Whatever you choose to do, it’s important to take your time. Move slow and increase in distance and speed as your body begins to heal. This isn’t a race, no one is going to steal your mail, it’s okay if it’s there for a few days, promise.

Constipation Is Bad For Recovery After C-Section

Okay, so I hope I didn’t scare you with that headline, but this is important. You do not want to be constipated after having a c-section. Trust me. And as scary as it may seem to have to push anything out after being cut open, it is important that you keep things “flowing” so to speak down there. How can I put this???

Imagine being constipated, now multiple that uncomfortable feeling by 1,000. That is what it will feel like if you don’t go often enough for recovery after c-section. Gross, put it needs to be said.

Eat lots of fiber and drink plenty of water during your recovery after c-section and things should go smoothly, literally. Okay, bad joke, sorry about that.

My last tip for recovery after c-section is a two-parter, first;

Understand that you gave birth. Period!

If recovering from a c-section was not your ideal birth, believe me, you are not alone. But at no point should you feel less them, not as good as, or like you didn’t give birth. Do you have a baby? Yes, okay then. You’re a mother and you gave birth. End of discussion.

However, if you are having a difficult time processing everything, again you are not alone, my final tip would be to journal.

Journaling During Recovery After C-Section

Writing down your thoughts and emotions is a good way to process everything. It can be hard to understand why it happened that way it did, and it can lead to us blaming ourselves. I know for me, once I started writing down my thoughts I was able to work through them which eventually helped me moved past it.

Accepting when something doesn’t go the way we planned can be hard, devastating even. So having a notebook to write things out can help a lot. In the earlier days after my c-section I also used my notebook to write out the good things. Things I enjoyed or was grateful for. And now when I need a pick me up, not only does this journal help me see how far I’ve come but it brings me back down to earth if I’m feeling less then lucky or like I’m a horrible mom. Because let’s face it, it happens.

Having a child is hard, having a c-section is hard. Dealing with everything in between is a new level of hard, but you go this mama!

With All My Love,

Jazmyne

The post Five Tips For Recovery After C-Section appeared first on Not So Perfect Momma.

Having a baby comes with a lot of joy, but as I am sure you know, it can also come with a lot of stress, depression, and sometimes even hate for yourself and your postpartum body.

So how do you learn to love your postpartum body?

Loving your postpartum body takes work. And time. It takes work and time. Speaking from my own experience, this isn’t something that happens over night. But if you are willing to actively put in the work, the results are well worth it! (Sounds like we’re about to discuss your future work out plan huh? LOL). Whether you’ve had a c-section or a home birth, our bodies go through so many changes post pregnancy and learning to embrace these can be easier said than done. 

Steps to loving your postpartum body

What’s the first thing I suggest in learning to love your postpartum body? Changing your self talk. This is really important. What you say to yourself about yourself basically shapes how you feel about yourself. Makes sense, right?

Start with correcting yourself whenever possible. If you look in the mirror and your first thoughts are “Ugh, my stomach is horrible.” Immediately correct that with something like “my stomach held my amazing child for 9 months and these are the marks to prove it and I love them.” But keep in mind, it doesn’t have to be this amazing love song to your body every time. Baby steps mama, baby steps.

What’s important is that you are training your mind to rethink what it sees when you look in the mirror. Small adjustments like these have a major impact.

Loving your postpartum body takes determination

It may not be easy to actively correct yourself every time you think or say something negative about your postpartum body, but it is definitely necessary. It is vital that you continue recognizing and then correcting negative self talk whenever possible. So what if you’re not totally in love with your body and saying things like, “Omg, stomach you’re a rock star and I love you” aren’t up your alley?

Loving your postpartum body means accepting it

Start by accepting the body you have now. All the stretch marks, wrinkly stomach, saggy boobs, all of it. I know there’s this Mommy Makeover that some mothers have gotten to give their postpartum body a facelift, so to speak. But that’s just it. Your body doesn’t need the make over. Your mind does. Accepting who you are and what your body looks like because of it has to happen. Well, I mean, unless you plan to spend well over $5k to change that.

For anyone who doesn’t, start by saying things like, “My body is okay the way it is.” This simple thought said out loud change seriously change how you view your postpartum body. And again, that’s the key. Changing how you view your body.

Stop wishing you had your old body back

It’s over mama. I’m sorry to break it to you. But you’ve had a baby, maybe more than one. Your body has seen some ish. It’s been through some ish and what you see when you look in the mirror is what it is now. Come to grips with that. It doesn’t have to be a bad thing. I’ll admit I’m still a little shaky about wearing a bikini with no cover up, but I have moved past trying to look like the old Jazmyne. I’ve found a new confidence in who I am today. Don’t dwell on the past, it’s only good when it comes to learning from your mistakes. Period.

My final piece of advice for learning to love your postpartum body…

Ask your husband / significant other. If they are worth anything I’m sure they see way more then what us moms ever do. Seriously, ask them.

I did.

I asked my husband this exact question:

“Babe, what do you like about my body? As in, since we’ve had children and my body has changed from when we met to now, what do you like physically about my postpartum body?”

His response; “Your butt.” He’s such a lame. But then he went on to say “I admired your body’s strength and resilience. Even after four children, and 40 months of growing, building, stretching, tearing, your body continues to push forward. Wearing its scares as badges and continues to evolve.”

If that doesn’t make you look at your postpartum body any different then I don’t know what would.

Sometimes we are so hard on ourselves we can’t see what’s right in front of us. And it takes what others see to help us correct our own vision.

Love,

Jazmyne

P.S bonus tip, learning to love your body post pregnancy also means learning to love your motherhood. It’ll look different for everyone and the sooner you accept that the better. Do what works for you and your family. 

The post Loving Your Postpartum Body appeared first on Not So Perfect Momma.

Well, as you can see, I came, I went, I conquered (or however the saying goes) and I am here to tell you all about it. Well, not exactly all about it, just what I wish I knew before my scheduled cesarean. If you’ve come over from Instagram, hi! Nice to see you!

If not, make sure you check out my Instagram (linked at the bottom of this page) for my top five things I wish I knew before my scheduled cesarean. Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, lol.

Let’s get into it. First, walking into the hospital just felt weird. I don’t know if it was because every other time before I had been in active labor, like 8.5 centimeters dilated active labor, or what. But just casually walking in, going through registration and being walked upstairs was weird for me. There was no excitement behind it. No sense of urgency and that really killed the mood for me. Now, I might be being extra, ( I am known for being extra) but hey thought I’d mention it.

After being taken up to labor and delivery I got a room and basically waited. My doctor had been called to assist on an emergency cesarean himself so I had to wait. Having had three children prior, any time I was in labor my doctor was basically right there. Now of course, I always waited quite some time before I got to the hospital so that may of been why, but still something to note. When you go in for a scheduled cesarean you may end up waiting a few.

While I was waiting, the nurse shaved down there. Not exactly sure what that spot is right above your vagina but below your actual stomach, but it got shaved. This was new for me too. I mean, I had shaved a few days prior so it wasn’t like it was bushy or anything, but she shaved it. Which was a little uncomfortable for me. Not that she did anything wrong, guess I didn’t think I would need to be shaved for a cesarean.

After being shaved and waiting for a few hours (literally) it was time. My nerves were through the roof too. I had no idea what to expect and no idea if I’d make it out alive. Remember my other two experiences with c-sections involved me being put to sleep and waking up to a baby, so um yeah, this was a whole new playing field for me.

First thing to know, you get a spinal tap or a epidural, shoot I don’t know what its called. The doctor puts a needle in your back so he can then place a catheter in your back. This was newer for me since each time prior a mask had just been put over my face and I counted backwards from twenty and drifted off to sleep. This experience actually wasn’t bad. I had heard other moms say things like “don’t move or you an get paralyzed” or, “It hurts like hell and you’ll be sore for weeks after.” I didn’t have this experience. It wasn’t great, but it wasn’t horrible. Holding a pillow between your legs while you are hunched over isn’t the most comfortable part of your day, but it doesn’t last long.

Now, this is where things got scary for me. First off, you can vomit. Like throw up. You’re probably like, of course you can, your stomach isn’t detached from your body. Which I know, it makes sense, but I didn’t think of that. I was like, omg, I am going to choke and die. I didn’t realize my body still works like regular cut open or not, lol. I just thought I’d vomit and it would’t come all the way up, I mean you are literally strapped down to a table and your entire body is numb, so you can’t move. How in the heck are you going to turn over so the vomit doesn’t go back down your throat? I have no idea how but I didn’t choke or die for that matter. You may vomit and if you do, the nurses will clean you up and then you’ll be good to go, no biggie really.

Although you are numb you can still feel stuff. Not like a pain but more like a pressure. It’s like having someone push down on your stomach hard but not hard enough to hurt, if that makes sense. You feel it and you know something is going on but you don’t know what.

Once the pressure starts it takes forever for them to get the baby. Or at least I felt like it did. Probably because I spent the entirety of the cesarean procedure praying I didn’t bleed out and my anxiety was at an all time high, who knows for sure. Which may be way I was also counting the seconds until I heard my baby cry.

I think with a cesarean, scheduled or not, there’s so much out of your control. You are basically helpless. You can’t see, neither can your partner really. All you can do is sit and wait. Those seconds from when Desmond told me they had pulled Koehn out until I heard him cry were excruciating for me. I wasn’t sure what was going on and that made me even more nervous. But my nurse was pretty awesome. She walked me through as much as she could, which helped some.

After baby is born, they put him to your face, you take a few pictures and that’s it. This part sucked for me. I wanted to hold him and kiss him or something. And I couldn’t do either. Instead I had to wait while my doctor and nurses counted the number of sponges they had used to ensure they hadn’t left any inside me. Which was also a little nerve wrecking. I mean, its nice to know they do these things to ensure I don’t die later of some crazy infection after the cesarean, but still. I was like omg, what if they did leave one and just don’t say anything. I know dramatic.

Something I didn’t expect, Desmond left me. Like, left the room left me. Koehn was being taking to the nursery while my doctor finished putting me back together, which again felt like it took forever, so someone had to go with. For someone who was already afraid of dying this only worsened the experience for me. What if I died and Des wasn’t there. He wouldn’t know, I thought. I tell you having a scheduled cesarean is not for the faint of heart. Or maybe just my heart, lol.

One thing, I forgot to mention, having your stomach burned back together stinks. Like seriously smells so bad. I can’t even describe it but be prepared.

All in all, having a scheduled cesarean was one of the scariest moments in motherhood for me. I wasn’t sure at any point if I was going to make it out alive or not. This had nothing to do with my doctors, nurses, or Desmond. It had everything to do with me not knowing what to expect. So I hope this helps you out a little if you’re expecting to have a scheduled cesarean.

If you’ve already had one, let me know in the comments below how yours went? Were you as scared as me?

Love Always,

Jazmyne

The post What I Wish I Knew Before My Scheduled Cesarean appeared first on Not So Perfect Momma.