The quiet and undisturbed early postpartum period is crucial for both your recovery and bonding as a family. It provides time for the body to heal after childbirth, as every birth leaves marks—some visible, others only felt—and all need their time to heal.

During a vaginal birth, the pelvic floor muscles are stretched and strained, requiring maximum rest and relief afterward. In the first days, lying in bed is the best form of recovery.

You may experience abrasions, swelling, mild pain, and a burning sensation during your first toilet trips. Additionally, the stretching of the tailbone in the initial days can be uncomfortable, so it’s essential to avoid further strain. Perineal tears, depending on severity, require special attention and supportive care. In some cases, the pressure during delivery may lead to hemorrhoids, which some women may have already encountered during pregnancy.

For cesarean births, the healing period is longer, and you may experience swelling, bruising, and skin sutures. Your midwife will support you through the healing process, offering valuable advice and monitoring progress.

• Rest, rest, rest. If you feel intense pressure on your pelvic floor, try elevating your pelvis or lying on your stomach. Avoid standing or sitting for long periods.
• Mind your position during bowel movements to protect your pelvic floor. A toilet stool can be a game-changer for easing strain.
• Avoid positions that put pressure on your wounds. For example, sitting cross-legged can strain perineal injuries, so it’s better to avoid it.
• Let your intimate area breathe. Stay naked for a while and place a towel in your bed. Use breathable cotton maternity pads without plastic, and choose breathable mesh underwear if you no longer want to wear hospital-issued ones. After the first few days, switch to breathable underwear and avoid tight pants.
• Using the Bidetlity intimate shower is highly recommended, especially in combination with the soothing Sitzbad (sitz bath) from Bahnhof-Apotheke. The gentle water rinse will remove lochia, and the herbal bath’s natural ingredients help heal small lesions, swelling, or more significant birth injuries. Add 1 tsp of Sitzbad to the shower and fill with warm water. We recommend using this rinse after every bathroom visit during the first week.
  If you have extra Sitzbad solution, you can also use it on your baby’s bottom if it becomes red or irritated.
• For more significant birth injuries, starting on the third day, you can create a compress using sterile gauze soaked in Sitzbad solution. Apply it to the wound or stitches three times a day for at least 30 minutes. You can also apply the solution directly to your pad if preferred.
  If it feels good, you can take a full Sitzbath starting from the second or third day. You will need a larger vessel to sit in. Choose what feels best for you.
• For cesarean births, the Sitzbad solution can also be used to rinse the incision. Pour it gently over the wound using a small cup. Make sure to rinse away any salt crystals afterward.
• Sutures will dissolve on their own and do not require removal, though in some clinics, stitches may still be stapled. These staples are typically removed without pain before you leave the hospital.
• Cooling pads or cool packs can help alleviate swelling. Arnika is highly recommended for bruising, with either creams or compresses based on the injury’s severity.
• For hemorrhoids, cold applications or special ointments with witch hazel can provide relief.
• After a few days, a soothing Sitzbath with oak bark or the popular Stadelmann Sitzbath can be beneficial.
• For swelling or bruising after a cesarean, Immortelle-Akut Spray or diluted Retterspitz solution can be used. Make sure not to apply it directly on the wound but to cleanse the edges of the wound.

Checking On Your Healing:
It may be immensely comforting to use a mirror to check your vulva and wounds after birth. This can be done alone or with your midwife. Often, the fear and uncertainty about the extent of the damage are far greater than the reality. This can help ease your concerns.

Healing Takes Time and Self-Care:
Allow yourself the time needed for complete recovery. It will benefit both you and your family in ways you can’t yet imagine. Your self-care during this time is crucial for your long-term well-being.