3 Unfiltered post-partum insights...
- Edlayne Fernandes
- Jun 29
- 3 min read
that every first time moms should know about.
Hello, in this blog, I’m bringing a glimpse of the candid and honest, while dishing the unfiltered insights about what to expect after giving birth because I feel like no one really talks about it.
Grab a cup of tea, a flavored water, a fluffy throw and brace yourself, as we dive into the raw of the first days of postpartum life.
1. Postpartum Bleeding
Postpartum bleeding, also known as lochia, is a natural process and part of the body’s natural healing process, after giving birth: naturally or via Caesarian. This phase may be just like a heavy period and lasts up to six to eight weeks.
It’s recommended to prepare in advance and stock up on heavy-duty pads and, please, do not use tampons.
Remember that your body skipped on your period for 9 months and now it’s time to get back to normal functions. It is a sign that all is good and healthy! The first days may become heavy, and it will gradually decrease as time goes by. Mother nature knows the process. Be patient.
If you think the flow is more than you expected to be, please do not wait until you call your doctor, doula, nurse and make sure all your questions have been answered in a way that is easy to understand.
2. Sensitive nipples
Nipples can, especially in the early weeks after delivery, become sensitive and very sore. Hormonal changes and more activity on the delicate skin due to pumping and breastfeeding can cause nipple trauma while breastmilk may be still trying to find the right ducts to make its way out.
Many new moms may experience a delay for breast milk to find its way out, depending on type of delivery and previous plastic surgeries for breasts reduction or augmentations.
Hospitals offer rental pumps, if you do not wish to purchase a device right away. The suction of these pumps is gentle, and many women do not experience pain.
We all think, by default, discharging breast milk is an automatic process, but many moms experience delay and pain in the first days.
Breasts might leak milk and be sore, even if you are not breastfeeding.
Remember to have an easy to reach postpartum kit that will you find nipple cream, hot and cold compress, and nursing pads to the rescue and relief.
Another fact is when baby refuses to be breastfed… you can recur to a bottle and start a hybrid feeding, with formula, until milk finds its way and baby can be formally introduced to breasts. There are specialized breastfeeding nurses who come home and present helpful advices and techniques.
3. The first postpartum bowel movement
This is one of the most not expected subjects that no one talks about.
The first bowel movement, after giving birth to a child, can be what you have been wondering now and there is no one to talk about it.
Let’s face it, who wants to spend time talking about bowels while you could be browsing Amazon new findings or your next Netflix adventure?
Well… Let’s learn about what nobody tells us because by this point, learning about the first post-partum bowel becomes almost a necessity because you are preparing to give birth.
It may take 2 to 4 days for the first bowel to happen. This is a normal delay due to possible body dehydration, reduced food intake during labor, pain meds, swealing or trauma around the perineum, fear of pain or tearing.
What is normal: Mild discomfort or pressure, especially with stitches (episiotomy or tear). Many people worry about tearing sutures — but stitches are secure, and bowel movements won’t usually affect them.
If you've had a C-section, using abdominal muscles can feel sore or awkward.
Call Your Provider if:
You haven’t had a bowel movement in more than 4–5 days
You’re experiencing severe pain, rectal bleeding, or think you have hemorrhoids
There’s a feeling of blockage or you strain with no results.
Proper diet with natural fruits, vegetables, meats, and sometimes stool softeners can make the process easier by softening the stool and preventing constipation.
It’s also important to drink plenty of fluids, such as prune juice and water. Keep your body hydrated and this should help with bowel movements.
Trust me, taking care of yourself in this way can make a world of difference and help you feel more comfortable and relaxed.
La Dolce Vita Photography by Layne Fernandes
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