Post-birth
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What happens straight after the birth?
Skin-to-skin contact is a great way to bond with your baby. It’s nice to have your baby placed on you right after they are born if that is possible, before the cord is cut, so you can be close right away.
Before or right after the cord is clamped, your baby will be dried off and covered with a towel to keep warm.
Your baby might have some of your blood or a white, creamy substance called vernix on their skin, which helps to protect their skin in the womb. Sometimes, babies may need mucus cleared from their nose and mouth, or a little help getting their breathing going.
A midwife, nurse or doctor will examine your baby, weigh them, and possibly measure them. Your baby will also get a wrist or ankle band with your name on it. Your midwife or maternity support worker will help you freshen up before you go to the postnatal ward.
Your body after birth
After giving birth, your body goes through many changes as it begins to heal and recover. It’s completely normal to have questions and need some extra guidance during this time. Remember, every new parent’s journey is different, so take things at your own pace and don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
If you have stitches from a tear or episiotomy, keeping them clean is essential. Make sure to wash your hands before and after using the toilet and avoid touching stitches unnecessarily. You should also change sanitary pads regularly and have a gentle bath or shower daily with plain, warm water, making sure to pat them dry carefully. If you feel sore, make sure to tell your midwife. Pain relief can help, but make sure to speak to a pharmacist, midwife or GP if you’re breastfeeding. Stitches typically dissolve on their own, but some may need to be removed.
Contact your midwife or GP immediately if you notice:
- Redness or swelling
- Discharge with an unpleasant smell
- Persistent or worsening pain after 2–3 weeks
Weeing might feel intimidating at first, especially if you're sore. Drinking plenty of water can help dilute your wee, which can help to reduce stinging.
Make sure to tell your midwife if you:
- Have trouble weeing
- Feel very sore
- Notice an unusual smell
You may not poo for a few days, but to help avoid constipation, eat fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and drink lots of water.
If you have stitches, they’re unlikely to be affected. Holding a clean tissue over the area while pooing can help relieve pressure on the wound.
It’s quite common to leak a little wee if you laugh, cough, or move suddenly after birth. Pelvic floor exercises can help with this. However, don’t hesitate to ask your GP for advice and support if things aren’t improving.
Piles (haemorrhoids) are common after birth and typically get better in a few days or weeks. Eating fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and staying hydrated, can make toilet trips easier and less uncomfortable.
Try to avoid straining, as it may worsen piles. If piles are really bothering you or you’re worried about your piles, talk to your midwife or pharmacist who can suggest soothing creams or ointments.
After birth, it’s normal to have vaginal bleeding, called lochia, whether you had a vaginal delivery or caesarean. You should use super absorbent pads initially, making sure to change them regularly and wash your hands before and after to reduce the risk of infection.
Make sure to avoid tampons or menstrual cups until your six-week postnatal check, as internal products can increase infection risk while healing. You should use maternity or period pads during this time.
Bleeding may get heavier or redder during breastfeeding due to uterine contractions, which may cause mild cramps. Over the weeks, the bleeding should lighten and turn brown before stopping.
Passing small blood clots is common, but make sure to speak to your midwife or GP if you’re worried, alongside if the bleeding has an unusual smell, becomes heavier, or doesn’t gradually decrease.
Some vaginal bleeding after delivery, whether vaginal or caesarean, is normal and should gradually decrease. However, if the bleeding is unusually heavy, this may be a postpartum haemorrhage (PPH).
PPH can occur within 24 hours to 12 weeks after delivery and may result from the womb not contracting fully or if part of the placenta remains in the womb.
To help prevent PPH, you’ll be offered an oxytocin injection during birth to aid womb contraction and placenta delivery. It's your choice whether to accept this injection.
Your breasts will first produce a yellowish liquid called colostrum for your baby. Around the third or fourth day, they may feel full and tight as they begin making milk. A supportive nursing bra can help with discomfort, so speak to your midwife if you're uncomfortable.
After birth, your tummy may still look larger as your muscles have stretched. Eating well and gentle exercise can help restore your shape gradually. Breastfeeding can also help recovery by triggering womb contractions, which may cause period-like cramps.
Contact your midwife, health visitor or GP immediately if you experience:
- Pain, swelling, or redness in your leg
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Sudden or heavy bleeding
- High fever or tender tummy
- Severe headache or vision changes (such as blurred vision or light sensitivity)
Your post-pregnancy body
Having a baby brings many changes to your body, and it’s natural to feel a bit different afterward. Some physical issues after pregnancy are common and with care, you can feel more comfortable as you recover. After having a baby, you might experience some discomfort or physical challenges. These can be related to pregnancy, childbirth or everyday tasks like lifting and bending while caring for your baby.
During pregnancy, it’s common for the abdominal muscles to separate, known as diastasis recti, as they stretch to accommodate your growing baby. Typically, this gap closes by around 8 weeks postpartum. You can check by lying on your back and gently feeling above and below your belly button. If the gap remains after eight weeks, contact your GP, who may refer you to a physiotherapist for specific exercises.
Regular pelvic floor and core exercises, along with good posture, can support healing and help bring the muscles back together.
During pregnancy, hormonal changes often make hair feel thicker by reducing daily hair loss. After birth, hair returns to its usual shedding cycle, and many women experience postpartum hair loss. This typically begins 2 - 4 months after childbirth, especially around the hairline. While it may be surprising, it’s normal and temporary, with most hair regrowth occurring within a year.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect your gums, making them more sensitive to plaque, which can lead to inflammation and bleeding. If you experienced morning sickness, the acid from vomiting may have also weakened tooth enamel.
It’s common for women to have dental issues after having a baby, but it’s important not to put off visiting the dentist. Dental care from the NHS is free for up to a year after your due date, so take advantage of it to treat gum disease or prevent further problems.
To get free dental care, you’ll need to apply for a maternity exemption certificate (MatEx). Your doctor, nurse, or midwife can provide you with form FW8 to apply for this.
Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles can help with bladder control, prevent prolapse, and even improve your comfort during sex. These exercises can be done anywhere, while lying down, sitting, or standing.
We’ve put together a guide on how to do them.
Caring for a baby can put a strain on your back, but a few simple adjustments can help:
• Sit with good support while feeding your baby, using a small pillow behind your lower back. Make sure your feet reach the floor
• Bend your knees and keep your back straight when picking things up off the floor or bathing your baby
• Change nappies on a raised surface like a sofa or bed, but never leave your baby unattended
• When lifting, keep your back straight and use your knees to bend
• Make sure your pram or buggy is adjusted so you can push it with a straight back or use a well-fitting sling to carry your baby
Pregnancy and birth bring intense changes, and it's natural for your body to need time to recover. Many hormonal shifts will gradually balance out over the weeks and months. While recovering, make sure to:
- Give yourself grace
- Practice self-kindness
- Seek support
- Make time for self-care
- Communicate with your partner
Remember, adjusting is a journey. Caring for yourself is just as essential as caring for your baby.
Recovering from a birth
Recovering from birth, whether a caesarean or vaginal delivery, is a gradual process. Taking the time to heal, both physically and emotionally, is key.
Caesarean section recovery
After your caesarean section, you’ll be closely monitored and encouraged to try skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding if you choose. Mild movement, once comfortable, can help with recovery.
It’s common to be in pain, but this should improve. If you’ve been prescribed pain relief, make sure to take it and speak to your GP if discomfort persists or worsens.
Make sure to avoid heavy lifting, exercise and sex until you’re pain-free.
Your wound will be covered initially. Make sure to keep it clean and dry. If you notice redness, swelling or discharge, make sure to contact your GP, as these may be signs of infection.
Loose clothing and gentle movements will help reduce irritation and support healing.
Vaginal birth recovery
Vaginal births can lead to soreness, especially with tears or stitches. Tears vary:
- First-degree – may not need stitches
- Second-degree – affects muscle, often requiring stitches
- Third or fourth degree – involves the anal muscles, requiring repair in surgery
An episiotomy (a small cut to help delivery) may be necessary with forceps, a breech baby or a rapid delivery.
For comfort, you can try:
- Pain relief if it’s suitable for you
- Finding positions that reduce help pressure
- Maintaining cleanliness to help prevent infection
Pelvic floor exercises, once you feel ready, can help with bladder control and healing.
Recovering emotionally is just as vital. Make sure to take the time you need to heal and remember that looking after yourself is essential for both recovery and well-being.
We also recommend exploring toiletries to help support your recovery post-birth.
Recovering from a difficult birth
A challenging or traumatic birth can leave lasting effects, whether from medical complications, emotional distress or disappointment. Many parents go through similar experiences, so you’re not alone. Even a straightforward birth can bring emotional challenges and partners can also be affected.
Emotional impact
Responses to a difficult birth vary, but common feelings include:
- Guilt or failure
- Low self-esteem
- Challenges bonding with your baby
- Relationship struggles
- Anxiety about future pregnancies
Steps for recovery
Recovery takes time. We’ve put together some advice that might help:
- Don’t self-blame – every birth is unique and you did your best
- Seek support – talk to your midwife, GP or a mental health professional
- Debriefing services – many hospitals offer birth debriefing to review your experience
- Counselling – therapy can help and NHS or private options are available
- Self-care – eat well, stay hydrated, rest and accept help
If a partner or loved one is struggling, encourage them to seek support, listen without judgement, and remind them they’ll get through this. Be sure to care for yourself too. Having anxious feelings about another pregnancy is natural. If you’re considering it, discuss concerns with your GP.
Sexual & reproductive health after birth
After giving birth, your body goes through many changes, and it's normal to have questions about your periods, fertility, and contraception.
Breastfeeding as contraception
The Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) can be a temporary form of contraception, but only if:
- Your baby is under 6 months
- You’re exclusively breastfeeding
- Your periods haven’t returned
- You’re feeding at regular intervals, including at night
If any of these change, you’ll need to start another contraception method, as LAM may be less reliable.
Your first postpartum period
Your first period might differ from before, for example, it could be irregular. If you have heavy bleeding or clots, contact your midwife or GP.
Contraception options
You should consider using contraception if you're not planning another pregnancy soon, as fertility can return quickly. Some options like implants or IUDs can start immediately, while others (for example the combined pill) may require waiting until 3 to 6 weeks post-birth.
If you're not planning more children
Permanent options like sterilisation or vasectomy are available, it’s important to discuss these with your GP.
It’s normal to feel unready for sex after having a baby. Your body needs time to heal physically and emotionally. Do what feels right for you. Open communication with your partner and kindness toward yourself can help make the transition easier.
There’s no set time for when your period will return after having a baby. However, many women start having periods again around 5 to 6 weeks after birth.
Yes, it’s possible to get pregnant as early as 3 weeks after giving birth, even if you're breastfeeding and your periods haven’t started again. If you're not ready for another pregnancy, it's important to start using contraception within 21 days after having your baby.
Breastfeeding can delay your periods, as prolactin (the milk-making hormone) reduces hormones that trigger menstruation. If breastfeeding exclusively, your periods may stay away until you cut back or stop night feeds. With mixed feeding, they might return about 5 to 6 weeks after birth.
Caring for your mental health after birth
After having a baby, it’s natural to experience a wide range of emotions. However, for some parents, feelings can become overwhelming and hard to manage.
Postnatal depression (PND) is a common type of depression that many parents experience after having a baby. It affects more than 1 in 10 women within the first year after birth and can also affect fathers and partners.
Symptoms of PND
While many parents experience the ‘baby blues’ in the first week, lasting longer than 2 weeks or starting later may indicate PND, with symptoms like:
- Persistent sadness or low mood
- Loss of interest in usual activities
- Constant fatigue and trouble sleeping
- Difficulty in self-care and baby care
- Withdrawal from loved ones
- Difficulty concentrating
- Disturbing thoughts, like fears of harming the baby
If you think you might have postnatal depression, it's important to speak to your GP, midwife or health visitor as soon as possible.
While some worry is normal for new parents, feelings of anxiety can sometimes become too much to handle. If you find that your worries are constant and are affecting your day-to-day life, it’s important to talk to your GP or health visitor about getting support.
If you’ve had OCD before, it’s possible for symptoms to return or flare up after giving birth. Maternal OCD can cause intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours.
Postpartum psychosis is a rare but serious mental health condition that can develop shortly after giving birth. Postpartum psychosis should be treated as a medical emergency. If you or someone close to you is experiencing symptoms, it’s important to seek urgent medical attention.
Symptoms can include:
- Hallucinations – hearing, smelling, seeing or feeling things that aren’t there
- Delusions – fears, thoughts, beliefs or suspicions that are unlikely to be true
- Mania – feeling overactive or very ‘high’. This could be talking too much or too quickly, being restless and losing your normal inhibitions
- A low mood
- Sometimes a mixture of both a manic mood and a low mood
- Feeling very confused
External factors, like financial stress, can impact your mental health, adding pressure during an already challenging time. Reaching out for support can help you start feeling better sooner—it’s okay to not feel okay, and there’s no shame in seeking help.
Trusted friends, family and healthcare professionals can offer valuable support. If you need time to focus on your well-being, it’s alright to let someone else care for your baby until you feel ready.
If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis or are at risk of harming yourself or others, please call 111, speak to your GP or the Samaritans on 116 123, or text Shout on 85258.
6-week post natal check
Around 6 to 8 weeks after birth, you’ll have a postnatal check-up to assess your physical and emotional recovery. This is a good opportunity to address any concerns, so jot down questions beforehand. If your GP doesn’t offer the appointment, feel free to request one.
Your baby will also have a health check around this time, and you can schedule your check-up to coincide or at a separate time.
What to expect at your postnatal check:
- Your doctor will ask about your mental health
- They may check on vaginal discharge and menstruation
- Blood pressure checks
- They may examine any stitches
- Cervical screening – this is scheduled 12 weeks postpartum if it was due during pregnancy
- Discuss options for contraception to help avoid a quick subsequent pregnancy
- Vitamin D advice – particularly if breastfeeding, to help support you and your baby
- Health and weight checks
Make sure to mention anything that you’re worried about.
The 4th trimester: Getting to know your postpartum body | Taboo Talk Podcast S5 EP05 | Boots UK
Congratulations, you’ve just had a baby! The term ‘the fourth trimester’ covers the 12 weeks after giving birth. After a thrilling yet daunting experience, you’re handed a baby and some giant maxi pads and sent on your way.
In this episode, actor Gemma Atkinson shares her experience of the fourth trimester after giving birth to her daughter Mia in 2019. We also have ‘The Modern Midwife’ Marie Louise providing expert insights on everything from mastitis and lochia to constipation and nipple creams. Together with host Vogue, Gemma and Marie will help you understand your postpartum body.
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Frequently asked questions
After giving birth, it’s normal to experience some bleeding, called lochia, which can last for up to 6 weeks. The bleeding is usually heavier in the first few days and gradually lightens over time, changing from bright red to pink, brown, and finally a yellowish white.
Everyone’s recovery is different, but if you’re concerned about the amount of bleeding, passing blood clots or if it becomes very heavy again, make sure to speak to your midwife or GP for advice.
Yes, it’s completely normal to develop piles (haemorrhoids) after pregnancy. Many people experience them due to the pressure of carrying a baby and the strain during labour. Piles usually settle down on their own within a few days or weeks, but treatments like creams or ointments can help ease discomfort.
Keeping the area clean and avoiding straining can also help. If symptoms persist or cause significant discomfort, make sure to speak with your GP or midwife for advice.
You can have sex whenever you feel ready after giving birth. There’s no set time frame. It’s important to wait until you feel both physically and emotionally comfortable. Some people feel ready after a few weeks, while others may take longer. If you're experiencing vaginal soreness, dryness or fatigue, these are normal and it’s okay to take your time. Make sure to communicate with your partner about how you're feeling and speak to your GP, health visitor or midwife if you have any concerns.
Vaginal prolapse, also known as pelvic organ prolapse, happens when the muscles and tissues supporting the organs in the pelvis (such as the bladder, uterus, or bowel) become weakened. This condition is common after childbirth but can also result from ageing or other factors that weaken the pelvic floor.
Symptoms may include:
- A feeling of heaviness in the pelvic area
- Discomfort
- A noticeable bulge in the vagina
If you’re worried about vaginal prolapse, make sure to speak to your GP.
Your periods will return at different times depending on how you're feeding your baby. If you're bottle feeding or combining bottle feeding with breastfeeding, your periods could start as soon as 5 - 6 weeks after giving birth.
If you're exclusively breastfeeding, your periods may not return until you start reducing how often you breastfeed, especially night feeds. Everyone’s body is different, so the timing of when your periods return can vary.
†Breastfeeding is best. Follow-On Milk should only be used as part of a mixed diet from 6 months. Talk to your Healthcare professional.
