Postpartum Bodies: From Incontinence to Infections

In Australia, common birth methods include home births with a professional midwife, delivery under the care of a private obstetrician and births in public facilities. Women who opt for delivery in a private facility often lack information and awareness about proper physiological care. They brush most serious problems under the carpet in the name of after-effects. There are practical and specific products for postpartum health care available over the counter, including incontinence products or breast pads. However, certain health issues may persist longer and could develop into a chronic condition or lead to further damage if left undiagnosed.

A woman’s body is most likely to change both externally and internally after childbirth. Physiological health fails to meet the attention that alterations in appearance, such as stretch marks or acne, receive. The frequency of gynecologist appointments also reduces over the months. A study published in 2012 about ‘Postpartum diet quality in Australian Women Following a Gestational Diabetes Pregnancy’ concluded that the women’s overall diet style was poor as measured against the Australian Recommended Food Score (ARFS). The study revealed that there was a decline in women receiving advice from health professionals. Some postpartum conditions, as mentioned earlier, do require professional help from doctors. Some of these conditions are given below:

1.   Incontinence

Generally considered shameful, incontinence is a condition prevalent among pregnant women. During pregnancy, the pelvic floor muscles get weak, and this may cause leakage. It may take a few days for the organs to go back to their original shape and size. Meanwhile, the easiest solution is to opt for incontinence products. It is essential to consult a pelvic health specialist if the condition persists longer than six weeks as it may be a sign of a serious health issue.

2.   Excessive Bleeding

After childbirth, heavy bleeding to a certain extent is normal, and women carry special maternity pads to help with the flow. Postpartum flow is darker and heavier for the first few days and keeps reducing over the next two to six weeks. One should call a doctor if the heavy flow lasts for more than a week, along with pain and cramps.

3.   Breast Pain

Breast pain is not exclusive to breastfeeding mothers. Postpartum breast swelling and discomfort is a common condition. The baby and the mother might find it difficult before they finally learn to latch and feed. While this may take a few days, breast pain is not supposed to last after the first week. One should consider calling a lactation consultant if the pain persists or the nipples start to crack or bleed.

4.   Postpartum Depression

After delivery, mental health takes the last seat on the bus as physical problems weigh heavily on the woman. Postpartum depression is often called “baby blues” and might develop complications if ignored. If signs of depression last for more than ten days, seeking the help of a specialised therapist is advisable. Psychological help must be considered beneficial rather than shameful.

5.   Vaginal Discharge

Pregnancy affects the body in complicated ways. Some vaginal discharge might seem inconsequential or random, but a smelly panty can be a sign of endometriosis or bacterial vaginosis. Some infections are treatable with antibiotics alone. When they do not get adequate medical attention, infections may lead to more serious conditions or even hospitalisations.

Awareness about postpartum healthcare is widespread. But the average woman is prone to neglect her body as it is expected of the mother to do so as she will be focusing on caring for the newborn. Families must be able to share the responsibilities of childcare and focus on the mother’s health.