Taking your baby home for the first time is a big transition for everyone in the family. The first few days can be challenging but be patient with yourself and remember you've got this, and we've got you.
Postpartum Care
To take care of your baby, you have to take care of yourself. Here are a few of our postpartum recovery tips.
Ice Ice Baby
To relieve swelling and discomfort, ice your perineum every couple of hours for the first 24-hours post-birth. Also, a peri bottle is great for rinsing your perineum with warm water.
Practical Panties
You have enough things to think about after you bring your baby home. Ruining your favorite pair of lingerie or stretchy pants shouldn't be one of them. Purchase a package of postpartum underwear to help catch bleeding, which can happen 1-6 weeks after delivering.
Easing Aches
Feel like you just ran a marathon? Well, having a baby is pretty close. If you're achy from pushing, it is normal! Taking acetaminophen or using a heating pad can help.
Keep Things Moving
Do not be alarmed if you experience constipation after giving birth. Drinking fluids, eating plenty of fiber-rich foods, going for walks, and using gentle stool softeners for bowel movements will all help you to stay regular. Walks will also help boost your mood and energy levels!
Why Am I Crying (Again)?
Hormones and lack of sleep can trigger a jumble of powerful emotions, including feelings of emptiness or sadness. Postpartum depression isn't a character flaw or weakness. 1 in 8 women experience it. However, if you are experiencing intense hopelessness or anxiety for more than two weeks postpartum, please reach out to your provider.
Give Yourself Some Grace
You did it! You navigated a lot over the past several months, and in turn, experienced one of life's greatest miracles. You deserve to give yourself some grace. Relish the sweet moments with your little one. Fill your camera roll with baby pictures. Never feel guilty about taking a nap. There will be good days and hard days, but never forget what a wonderful parent you are!
Lactation Services
If you are interested in breastfeeding, Mountain View Hospital is proud to offer new parents lactation support while in the hospital. our lactation specialists are trained to work with you and your baby to help solve any feeding challenges you may experience.
Shortly after you have welcomed your baby into the world, our lactation consultant will meet you in the hospital. They will help you navigate breastfeeding by showing you how to get your baby latched on, optimal feeding positions, and what to do if your little one is a fussy eater—as well as answering any other questions you might have.
Breastfeeding can be a long and tricky journey—many of our Mountain View moms can speak from experience. But the support doesn't have to end once you leave the hospital.
For additional services related to breastfeeding or lactation, visit the Idaho Breastfeeding Coalition for laws, resources, and support material for returning or first-time mothers. You'll find support resources pertaining to each of the seven districts throughout the state.
Resources included:
- Public Health Breastfeeding Program
- Mom-to-Mom Support
- Hospital Based Support
- Independent Consultants
- Breastfeeding Friendly Businesses
- Art and Photography
