The Importance of Postnatal Care

The Importance of Postnatal Care

Welcome to the new era of sleepless nights and saggy bags under your eyes. Just kidding. Postnatal care or postpartum care helps mothers adapt to the physical, psychological, and social changes that result from giving birth.

In this article, we’ll focus more on the postnatal care of the mother with tidbits of information for the baby from time to time. (1)

1. Fundamental care for all newborns should include initiating exclusive and early breastfeeding (if possible), more frequent handwashing, providing umbilical cord and skin care, and keeping the baby warm. Be patient with breastfeeding as this can take as much as three weeks to learn correctly. It includes how to care for the breasts, tackle breastfeeding problems, pump and store breastmilk, and position the baby for breastfeeding.


2. Postpartum mothers experience varying degrees of vaginal soreness. So vaginal care is an integral part of postnatal care, especially if tearing or an episiotomy occurred during delivery. In addition, uterine contractions, frequent or painful urination, and the presence of some vaginal discharge can happen on the days immediately following delivery. Not to mention heavy menstrual bleeding which is normal for up to 4 weeks following delivery.


3. The mother should be aware of identifying conditions requiring additional attention and care. She should also know what danger signs and symptoms to look out for and when to take the baby to the nearest hospital's emergency room. This is often covered by antenatal classes prior to the birth but please discuss any concerns with your midwife or doctor.
4. Getting sufficient rest. Mothers need to recover their strength after delivery while using energy to care for their babies. Yes, it’s quite a tricky situation. Dad, to the rescue. Ahem. To avoid fatigue, mothers should sleep when the baby sleeps and good nutrition for the mother is crucial during this time, not only to help her recover but also to produce plenty of nourishing milk for the baby.



5. Family members should take an active role in helping the mother and newborn fulfil their needs. We mean, don’t just stand there, and listen to the mother. Do your part in changing the nappy, doing some housework, preparing the mother a drink and a snack. That would be extremely helpful.


6. All mothers and newborns need postnatal check-ups or visits in the first six to eight weeks after pregnancy. So, what happens during postnatal care check-ups?



At the initial visit, the obstetrician or midwife develops a plan for the mother regarding her postnatal care. It will culminate in a comprehensive examination (physical and laboratory) no later than 12 weeks after giving birth. The health care provider also assesses the mother’s psychological, physical, and social well-being, including her emotions and mood. The examination also covers the baby’s feeding, rest and fatigue, chronic health conditions, physical recovery from birth, and contraception.




Postnatal testing administration. These tests for the baby include screening tests to detect metabolic disorders secondary to some enzymes not working correctly or being absent, issues related to deficient or excess hormones, haemoglobin abnormalities, hearing problems, and rare diseases like congenital heart disease. Furthermore, postnatal genetic testing on babies identifies potential disorders caused by chromosomal abnormalities. The health care provider will also assess the mother for signs and symptoms of postpartum depression.




The mother is taught how to handle her newborn safely. Some mothers may feel unprepared after the delivery of their babies, especially if it’s their first. Honourable mentions when handling a baby include always supporting that precious neck, changing the baby’s nappy, bathing the baby, cleaning the umbilical cord, soothing the baby, and feeding and burping.




A note on breastfeeding. Breastfeeding problems may arise, and the mother can be referred to a lactation consultant like a postpartum doula. The doula provides evidence-based information on breastfeeding and other problems.




Nutrition counselling. The mother will be reminded to drink a lot of fluids. Other health care providers may insist on drinks with electrolytes to aid recovery after giving birth. In addition, she should load up on high-protein foods and anti-inflammatory foods as well as plenty of healthy fats that contain vitamin C, vitamin A, B vitamins, vitamin D, and zinc.



1. Of special concern regarding nutrition is keeping the mother’s blood glucose levels within normal. It helps keep her mood stable and emotions intact. Believe us. You don’t want an angry, postpartum mother breathing down your neck with very high or very low blood sugar levels. Eating good quality protein and fats with each meal will help with this.
2. According to a scientific study published in the Clinical and Experimental Allergy journal, postnatal probiotics may reduce the development of maternal allergic disease. But, of course, the best scenario would be starting probiotics before the pregnancy even starts. . Probiotics also help to support the baby through the breastmilk and maternal probiotic consumption while breastfeeding may reduce rates of allergies in babies.
3. Fish and fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, may lower the mother’s risk for postpartum depression. So, try to include them as part of a healthy diet.


7. Each mother handles and experiences pregnancy in her own unique way. It’s essential to let your body take the reins and trust your emotions and sensations. Find a quiet space or corner to relax and rest your mind and body. Furthermore, postpartum mothers should share their feelings and experiences with their health care provider, partner or spouse, and other members of the pregnancy support team. Connecting with other mothers and babies in the local community will cultivate a sense of belongingness and support.



8. Stress management for postpartum mothers can involve listening to music while walking, simply taking a warm bath, and receiving a relaxing massage as well as enlisting family to help give you a break, even just for a quiet cup of tea or a nap.



9. Don’t forget to make time for yourself. It’s not a luxury but a necessity for a mother’s emotional well-being. Remember the things that make you feel good, make a list, and try to tick them off regularly. Make yourself a priority once in a while.
10. Also, don’t forget to prioritise couple time. After birth, the focus shifts to the little one understandably. But don’t forget to reclaim lost time with your spouse or partner by making time for just the two of you.
11. You can’t predict everything that may happen. Always be prepared for the unpredictable. There will undoubtedly be days that you’ll be overwhelmed. That’s an absolute certainty. Try and absorb the situation and breathe. You can handle it. And of course, don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Very few human experiences are more daunting, more challenging, or more exciting than pregnancy. The joy and relief after giving birth are often accompanied by some stress and sleep-deprivation for both parents. Receiving quality postnatal care is an essential factor in preventing complications and reducing stress after the baby arrives.