postnatal care
After the birth, it is natural for all women (and their partners!) to be tired from the physical birth and lack of sleep.
At this time, the new mother needs plenty of rest to keep up her milk supply.
She will also need extra assistance for three-six weeks if she has had a Caesarean birth.
Family and friends can be of great help by supplying meals, helping with housework, washing and looking after older siblings. In some centres, you can also hire professional help to lighten the load in the first few weeks or months.
Breastfeeding:
Try Weleda Nursing tea to increase quality of milk, increase milk flow and prevent colic in your baby or
NaturoPharm milkflow. Always consult your midwife or lactation consultant for advice.
For online information on health issues such as
breast engorgement, sore/cracked nipples and mastitis, check out
the further reading box.
Nutrition:
For nutritional reasons, you should should still:
This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
You should always seek the advice of your doctor or health professional for any concerns you may have regarding food safety.
What to eat instead:
-
freshly prepared and well cooked foods
-
wholefoods rather than processed foods
-
organic foods
-
drink lots of water
-
herbal teas are usually recommended (the caffeine free varieties).
Feminine hygiene:
After the birth you will have need to have a good supply of sanitary pads on hand!
Whilst many sanitary products may contain synthetic and plastic products that may cause irritation, you can now choose between cloth and disposable organic cotton menstrual pads (eg Naturacare).
For suppliers of cloth menstrual pads, check out our:
Untitled 1
US "
where to shop"
or
NZ "
where to shop"directory.
Recommended for maternity use are the Naturacare night-time press-on pads which are extra-long, super pads.
References:
1. Ministry of Health, Eating for Healthy Breastfeeding Women. Revised June 2004.
2. Deb Gully,
DietNet
Further Reading:
Natural Parenting.com.au