How To Care After Pregnancy

The care given after pregnancy is very important for any new mother. Women are usually advised to stay at home to let their body heal by itself. At home you will have your family and close relatives to take care of your needs. You are advised to stay at home for at least a period of six weeks after child birth. You should give this time to your body to recuperate and bounce back. Working mothers find it difficult to spare this time. So, it is necessary for them to plan their maternal leave keeping this time frame in mind.

Why is care given?

After pregnancy care is given to new mothers to:

# Detect any kind of infection or hemorrhage

# Reduce chances of baby infections or disorders

# Give a better understanding about nutrition, child care, breastfeeding and other necessary guidelines related to care for self and the baby

# Counsel on family planning

Care is also rendered to the umbilical cord. Your baby, when it was in the womb received its nourishment through the umbilical cord. This cord after delivery turns into a purplish blue stub. The stub which is about half or one inch in length takes close to 2-8 weeks to dry and fall off. It is necessary to prevent infection to this stub. The area should always be kept dry and clean. Only sponge bath is given during such time. The stub when it dries will fall off on its own and the place will heal automatically. Do consult your doctor if you suspect any bleeding or pus formation in that area. This could be due to an infection.