July 19, 2006 - New moms can find dozens of books and pamphlets on what to expect while they're ... Tips For New Moms...

July 19, 2006 - New moms can find dozens of books and pamphlets on what to expect while they're expecting and how to care for the baby once they bring it home. There's less information out there about what new moms need to know to make sure their mind and body adjusts to postpartum life.

THE FIRST WEEK: Dr. Blenning says there are many issues that can come up in the first few days after giving birth that many moms need help with. "We felt that too much of the time, the first visit doesn't happen for the mother until a little bit too late to catch certain issues, like if there is a difficulty breastfeeding," she says. Breastfeeding problems can often arise within the first week. The first postpartum visit is usually at two weeks after the baby is born. "So if we see the mom within the first week, then that gives us a chance to offer support, troubleshoot, find resources for her, so she can continue breastfeeding," says Dr. Blenning. She also says if a woman is experiencing a significant mood disorder, it can sometimes be seen in the first week. Doctors can look for warning signs in case it isn't just the blues, but rather postpartum depression.

There are other issues that can arise, which Dr. Blenning says make it important for women to be seen within the first week after giving birth. She says there are four general categories that need to be assessed. "The first being just general medical complications ... complications with signs of infection, excessive bleeding," she explains. Then breast-feeding, mood, and sexuality and contraception should also be addressed.

Dr. Blenning says it's ideal to bring up sexuality and contraception with women during prenatal care and have a plan for later. Many times, this subject is discussed in the hospital before mom and new baby go home. "But there are so many other things that get talked about in the hospital, that it's a little bit overwhelming, so we shouldn't be relying on that little conversation to decide everything," she says. It is possible for women to ovulate within a few weeks after giving birth, so unless they are ready to be pregnant again, birth control is still necessary. There are some limitations on hormonal contraceptives while breastfeeding. Dr. Blenning recommends women wait about six weeks. But other methods -- condoms, diaphragms and IUDs -- will still work.

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