You finally hold your baby in your arms – this moment you have been waiting for so long is here. At the same time, you feel how exhausted your body is, how foreign it feels, and perhaps your feelings surprise you as well: euphoria, overwhelm, insecurity, all at once. The first days after birth are a time of transition, during which your body heals and you discover yourself as a mother. You are not alone – and it is completely normal for these days to be intense.

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Your Body After Birth: Healing Takes Time

Birth is a physical feat – and your body needs one thing above all right now: rest and recovery. In the first days, you will experience various physical changes, all part of the natural healing process.

Lochia and Uterine Involution

Your uterus begins to shrink back immediately after birth. You will notice the lochia – a bleeding that is initially heavy and dark red, then gradually becomes lighter and weaker. This is your body’s way of cleansing the uterus. The uterus contracts, which you can feel as afterpains, especially during breastfeeding. These contractions are a good sign: Your body is working to heal.

  • Hygiene: Change pads regularly, do not use tampons
  • Monitoring: Very heavy bleeding or foul-smelling discharge should be evaluated by a doctor
  • Patience: Lochia can last 4-6 weeks

Perineal Injuries and Cesarean Scar

If you had a perineal tear or episiotomy, this area will be sensitive in the first days. Cooling, gentle sitz baths, and special pillows can provide relief. A cesarean scar needs special care – keep it clean and dry, and don’t hesitate to ask for pain medication if you need it.

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Milk Letdown and Breast Changes

About 2-5 days after birth, the milk letdown occurs. Your breasts may suddenly become very full, warm, and tense. This is completely normal and indicates that your body is producing milk for your baby. Frequent breastfeeding, cool compresses after feeding, and gentle massage can help. If you are not breastfeeding, milk production will naturally decrease after a few days.

Weight Loss and Energy Needs

Many mothers lose weight in the first days – due to the exertion of birth, the loss of amniotic fluid and blood, and the onset of breastfeeding. This is a natural process. Your body now needs nutrient-rich food and plenty of fluids to heal and have energy.

The Emotional Rollercoaster: Feelings in the Postpartum Period

While your body heals, you also go through an intense emotional phase. Hormones are shifting, you are exhausted, and at the same time, you are taking on a completely new role. Everything you feel is allowed.

Baby Blues: When the Tears Flow

About 50-80% of all new mothers experience the so-called baby blues – usually between days 3 and 5 after birth. You may feel tearful for no reason, overwhelmed, anxious, or sad, even while loving your baby. This is due to massive hormonal changes and is not a sign of weakness.

  • The baby blues usually resolve on their own within a few days to two weeks
  • Talk about your feelings with your partner, your midwife, or friends
  • Allow yourself rest, sleep whenever possible, and be gentle with yourself
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Overwhelm and Insecurity

Suddenly you are responsible for a tiny, vulnerable being. It is completely normal for you to sometimes feel overwhelmed or afraid of making mistakes. You are learning to be a mother – and that takes time. Every mother has gone through this phase.

If worries keep you awake at night or you feel like you’re not good enough: those are thoughts many mothers have. They do not mean you are failing. They show how much you love your baby and how important it is to you to get everything right.

When Professional Help is Important

If negative feelings persist for longer than two weeks, intensify, or you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, talk immediately to your midwife or doctor. Postpartum depression is a serious condition that can and must be treated – and it is not a failure.

The First Days at Home: Practical Tips for Recovery

The first time with your baby at home is exciting and new. You both need time and peace to get to know each other and recover from the strains of childbirth. Less is more – focus on what’s essential.

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Organize Support

Think about who can support you in the first days. This can be your partner, family, or friends who can take on tedious household chores, go shopping, or simply be there so you can shower or sleep.

  • Ask for specific help: "Can you go shopping tomorrow?" instead of "We'll manage."
  • Let visits wait until you’re ready – your recovery is a priority
  • Accept meals that friends bring

Sleep Whenever Possible

"Sleep when the baby sleeps" may sound like a cliché, but it is the most important advice. Your body heals in sleep, and lack of sleep intensifies emotional fluctuations. Let the housework go – it can wait.

Eat Well and Drink Plenty

Your body needs nutrients and fluids now, especially if you are breastfeeding. Keep healthy snacks on hand, drink water, and eat regularly. You do not have to prepare perfect meals – simple and nutrient-rich is completely sufficient.

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Bonding and Getting to Know Each Other

The first days are also a time of getting to know each other. Skin contact, gentle talking, cuddling together – all of this strengthens the bond with your baby. There is no time pressure. You have all the time in the world to get used to each other.

Frequently Asked Questions About the First Days After Birth

How long does physical recovery take?

The first 6-8 weeks after birth are referred to as the postpartum period. During this time, your body heals, the uterus shrinks back, and hormones stabilize. Full recovery can take several months – be patient with yourself.

Is it normal to feel so exhausted?

Yes, absolutely. You have just gone through birth, are sleeping little, and your body is doing great things. Exhaustion is completely normal in the first weeks. Accept any help you can get.

When should I contact my midwife or doctor?

  • With very heavy bleeding (more than one pad per hour)
  • With fever over 38°C
  • With severe pain that does not improve
  • With foul-smelling lochia
  • With persistent negative feelings or anxieties

How do I deal with well-meaning advice?

Everyone has an opinion on how you should care for your baby. Listen to your gut and your midwife. You can politely but firmly say: "Thank you, we will do it our way."

You’ve Got This – One Day at a Time

The first days after birth are intense, challenging, and beautiful at the same time. Your body is doing amazing things while it heals, and your feelings are allowed to be wild. Be gentle with yourself. You do not have to be perfect – you just have to be there, for your baby and for yourself.

Take the time you need. Ask for help. Talk about your feelings. And remember: This intense phase will pass, and with each day, you will become more confident, stronger, and more yourself – just in your new role as a mother. You are doing great.