Once the little one arrives, a mother’s world changes completely. Postpartum period comes with some blessings and some issues. Is the baby feeding well? Is there any discomfort? Is the baby sleeping properly? Thoughts like these surround the mother’s life during Postpartum period. After maternity leave, returning to work can be stressful—the baby’s needs, job responsibilities, and household duties all come together, making things overwhelming.
Just like during pregnancy, the body undergoes many changes during postpartum as well. Hair fall, dry skin, and similar problems may trouble mothers to some extent. That is why proper care for skin and hair is essential for feeding mothers. Postpartum stress is yet another severe factor to add, which occurs in some cases. Don’t hesitate to seek help from your partner and family members so that you can find time for self-care, while looking after the baby and managing the home.
Gentle care is important during Postpartum period
As part of postpartum care, it is common for Malayali women to bathe in very hot water. But bathing in excessively hot water can make the skin dry. Warm water—not very hot—is the best.
Do you use strong disinfectants in the name of keeping germs away? Some people use harsh products not only for cleaning skin but also for washing clothes. These are not good for the baby’s delicate skin or the mother’s skin. Always choose mild products for your baby. Likewise, mild cleansers, soaps, and skincare products are better for moms too.
During breastfeeding, cracked or wounded nipples can be painful. Never apply any cream or medicine without medical advice. If you do so, these medicines may enter the baby’s stomach while feeding. Consult a doctor and use only the medicines prescribed. Remember, not all medicines are safe during breastfeeding.
There are medicines that are harmless even if they enter the baby’s mouth while feeding. Some ointments can be applied during the intervals between feeds. Use only what the doctor recommends. When applying moisturizers or oils on the body, avoid applying them on the nipple area.
It is important to choose mild skincare and beauty products.
Mothers who return to work after maternity leave often use a breast pump. Using it—or even without using it—wounds can sometimes develop on the nipple area. Seek medical treatment if needed; otherwise, there is a chance of infection. Using the medicines prescribed by the doctor will help to heal the wound and reduce discomfort.
Overweight individuals are more likely to develop infections between the thighs and under the breasts. During hot weather, sweat can accumulate in these areas, causing irritation. Take care to ensure that moisture does not remain on the skin. Wearing clean cotton clothes is recommended during the Postpartum period. Also read: Gestation period is a beautiful dream, if you believe so
Avoid these practices during Postpartum period
Don’t rush into any beauty treatment just because you want to become beautiful again immediately after childbirth. As a new mother, avoid hair styling or treatments that require strong chemicals. Stay away from products containing formalin for better health.
If possible, use beauty products only in moderation. Those who use sunscreen should choose a physical sunscreen—avoid chemical sunscreens.
Skin care during Postpartum period
Use a gentle cleanser to clean your skin. Consult a dermatologist to choose a cleanser suitable for your skin type; this will help prevent beauty-related issues.
Lack of hydration can make the skin dry and dull. Want glowing skin? Use moisturizers or oils that suit your skin type.
Exfoliate once a week to remove dead skin cells.
If skin problems appear, consult a dermatologist and choose products suitable for your skin. Relying on products seen on social media may worsen your skin problems.
Postpartum care for hair and mental health
Most women experience hair fall after childbirth, mostly because of hormonal changes. This usually resolves within a year. New moms don’t get proper sleep, at least for one year. Lack of sleep, irregular sleeping patterns and mental stress can worsen hair fall and skin issues. If your night sleep is disrupted, try to compensate with a daytime nap. Seek help from family when needed.
Some new mothers may experience postpartum depression. Never hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional if you experience this condition. Postpartum depression is an issue which was not addressed with due care a decade back. It was just seen normal earlier. Pleasant thing is that, the new generation is addressing postpartum depression in a better way, and taboo associated with it is slowly dissolving.
Hair loss, loss of skin radiance, and similar changes including change of body shape & gaining weight can negatively affect the mental state of some women. Likewise, emotional stress and mood fluctuations can adversely affect the health of both hair and skin. When a new person is added to life, it comes with a lot of responsibilities also, and every parent need to cope with it. Your life may need a reset mode to adjust to new changes. At least for a few during postpartum, it takes some time. Do not hesitate to speak openly with your loved ones and seek professional help when needed.
Do not skip essential nutrients during postpartum period
Do you want healthy skin and hair? Then don’t ignore nutrients. Include plenty of vegetables and fruits in your diet. Make sure you eat a balanced meal every time.
During pregnancy, you must have been taking iron and vitamin D supplements, right? Many women stop taking these supplements after childbirth. It is healthier to continue iron and vitamin D supplements throughout the breastfeeding period. The baby receives nutrients from the mother’s body while breastfeeding. So the mother must replenish that loss through nutritious food and supplements if needed.
Weight gain during pregnancy and after childbirth is natural. When it’s time to return to work, many try to lose weight quickly. Some people resort to unhealthy dieting or excessive exercise. Doing so can harm not just your health, but also your natural beauty. Consult a doctor or dietitian and follow a healthy method to lose weight during postpartum period. Make sure you get the required nutrients.
Please remember — When health is taken care of, beauty follows naturally.
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