Whether your baby entered the world through a vaginal birth or a caesarean section, your body’s been through a massive event and recovery is a journey, not a sprint. Here’s what to expect in the first few weeks and some practical tips to help ease discomfort and support healing.
Healing After Vaginal Birth
Even the smoothest vaginal birth can leave you feeling sore, swollen, and downright tender. Here’s what many mums experience in the first few weeks:
What's Normal:
- Perineal soreness or stitches if you had tearing or an episiotomy
- Bleeding (lochia) – this can last up to 6 weeks
- Pelvic heaviness or mild pressure
- Discomfort when sitting or going to the loo
Comfort Tips:
- Use cold packs or frozen maternity pads to ease swelling
- Try sitz baths (just a few inches of warm water in the tub) for soothing relief
- Rest when you can, and lie on your side to take pressure off the perineum
- Keep the area clean and dry – rinse with water after toileting and pat dry
- Use a peri bottle to avoid stingy wees and reduce wiping discomfort
If pain worsens or you notice a foul smell, it’s worth checking in with your GP or midwife.
C-Section Recovery: What You Need to Know
A caesarean is major abdominal surgery, and while many mums bounce back quicker than expected, your body still needs care and time to heal.
First Few Weeks:
- You may feel tender around the incision site
- Moving, laughing or coughing can be uncomfortable (hug a pillow to your belly!)
- Bleeding (lochia) still happens, even after a C-section
- Tiredness and wind pain are common in those early days
Wound Care & Movement
- Keep your incision clean and dry – pat gently after a shower, and avoid soaking in baths
- Watch for signs of infection like redness, swelling, or discharge
- Wear high-waisted undies or postnatal support garments to avoid rubbing
- Get moving, gently! Short walks help circulation and prevent clots
- Avoid heavy lifting (anything heavier than bub), and go slow with stairs
Supporting Your Recovery (No Matter the Birth)
- Hydration + nutrition matter: drink plenty of water and fuel your body with nourishing meals
- Ask for help – with meals, older kids, errands. You don’t have to do it all.
- Accept rest as essential, not a luxury
- Pumping or breastfeeding? Use pillows and upright seating to stay comfortable. Our Mumma Owl breast pumps are designed to let you express hands-free so you can rest while you pump. (Yes, multitasking in pyjamas is productive.)
You’ve just brought a human into the world. Your body deserves patience, gentleness, and support. Whether you had stitches or staples, a water birth or theatre lights, this season is about healing and bonding, not rushing back to anything.
Take it one day at a time, and remember: you’re doing an incredible job.