Original URL: http://life.familyeducation.com/postpartum/health/42933.html

Postpartum Recovery: 2nd Week Home

What Hurts:

• Your breasts (whether or not you breastfeed) are still full and uncomfortable.
• Hemorrhoids still hurt, but they may be getting better.

What Works:

• With swelling and water retention diminishing, you can wear some of your shoes again.
• Feeding (by breast or bottle) is starting to work better; you are actually going to be able to do this!

What Doesn't Work:

• When you cough, laugh, sneeze or lift something heavy, you may lose stool or urine and not be able to control it.
• Fatigue! Taking care of baby requires a lot of time and energy.

What Spells Trouble:

• A foul odor or yellow-green vaginal discharge; lochia should be decreasing at this point.

It's OK If:

• You let baby cry a little before checking on her.

Don't Look Now, But . . .

• You can almost see your feet when you look down (your tummy is getting smaller).

Remember to:

• Write down any questions for your visit with your pediatrician.
• Keep your doctor's appointment to have your incision checked if you had a C-section.

Call in the Troops:

• Neighbors love to help with new babies. If you don't know them well, asking for their help with a new baby is a good icebreaker.

Stop and Smell the Roses:

• Is there anything softer than your baby's skin?
• Write down some of your thoughts and feelings in your journal.

Red Light, Green Light

• Red Light—Hold off on any kind of exercise that puts a strain on your abdomen.
• Green Light—Take a short walk outside.

Postpartum Recovery: 3rd Week Home