Postpartum recovery: Why taking it day by day is best

Congratulations on welcoming your new bundle of joy into the world!

While this is an exciting time, you are recovering not only from labor and delivery but also from months of pregnancy.

Although you want to be able to get right back to where you were, it is extremely important to remember that you are in recovery mode, which means you need to take it slow when returning back to pre-pregnancy you.

Care for yourself when caring for baby

Of course your new baby is a priority, but you need to remember that you are a priority, too! In order to give the best possible care to your child, you also need to be the best version of yourself, which means you need to be as healthy as possible--both mentally and physically.

Because pregnancy takes a toll on both your mental and physical health, it can take a while to feel as though you are back to where you were before you got pregnant. By giving yourself time and grace, you can get back to where you were and become the parent you want to be for your baby.

Postpartum care 101

Let's take a look at some ways you can take care of yourself when recovering from pregnancy and delivery:

First, you want to make sure that you rest whenever possible, especially for the first few weeks. When your baby rests, you truly need to rest. Allow other people to help keep your house clean, wash clothes, cook meals and perform other everyday tasks.

If your loved ones offer to help you, let them. You do not have to play the super parent role.

Try to get back into an exercise routine once OK'ed by your doctor. Take things slowly and ease back in, but the movement will do your body and mind a world of good.

Finally, you also want to make sure you are washing your hands frequently. Not only do you want to prevent passing along germs to your new family member, but you also want to avoid sickness yourself. Washing your hands can help prevent the spread of germs to both you and your newborn.

Are you expecting a new addition to the family? Be sure to check out the classes available at Parkridge East Hospital that can help you and your family be better prepared for your new arrival!