Caring For Yourself In The Post Partum Phase

By Virginia Croke, Liberty Health

The post-partum phase of life is a broad spectrum, and one that isn’t discussed enough. Your body has just experienced a million and one changes. It’s important that this is acknowledged, and we also help you support yourself as your body heals and re-groups.

Whether you had a vaginal birth, a caesarean, a quick labour or one that felt like it went for thirty days and thirty nights, each comes with its own pressures on your body. One thing that’s certain is that your pelvic floor and abdominal wall have some recovery to do. So, in the first six weeks after baby arrives, I recommend as much time horizontal as possible. The more we can take those structures out of gravity while they’re healing, the better. This means you get a green light to delegate as much cooking and cleaning as possible.

If you don’t feel up to any kind of exercise in that first six weeks, that is utterly ok. The theme of that time is rest. If movement lights you up and keeps you sane, I recommend a slow stroll. Keep the distance short and the surface steady (no hills or sand). Hand over the dog leads and the pram to a loved one. You’re only responsible for yourself here.

When you’re feeling up to something fancier than a walk, I recommend an assessment with a trusted practitioner that specialises in women’s health. Whether that’s the team at Pilates+, a pelvic floor physio or a chiropractor like me, the main thing to look for is a worker that helps you feel heard, capable and understood.

Be patient with yourself, you’ve got this!

Dr Virginia Croke (chiropractor)

Liberty Health and Happiness, Gisborne