Baby2Body’s Guide To Postpartum Recovery: What To Expect In Week 6
When it comes to postpartum recovery, it can be difficult to know what to expect, especially if you’re in your third trimester and really focusing on getting through labor and delivery. And yes, sometimes looking ahead can feel overwhelming, but often knowing what to expect can also help you to feel more in control of the weeks and months ahead.
That’s why we’re sharing exactly what to expect during postpartum recovery — so you can take it all in when you need to — maybe you want to be prepared now, maybe you want to save these posts and read them as the time comes — it’s completely up to you!
Just remember, every woman is different, every pregnancy is different, and every delivery is different, so what to expect after birth varies a lot. We’re sharing some common symptoms of postpartum recovery — but you might not experience everything you see here & you might find you notice other things more. Let us know how you’re feeling in the comments!
If you missed them, here are the other posts in this series:
Here’s what you can expect in week 6 of postpartum recovery:
The 6 week mark is often considered a big moment when it comes to postpartum recovery. Around this time, you’ll likely have a check-up with your doctor (for you and baby!) where you’ll likely get cleared for things like exercise (more on this below).
Of course, you’ll still experience some postpartum symptoms as your hormones continue to swirl around and exhaustion from looking after a little one kicks in. Don’t worry, we’re going to talk you through everything you need to know. Here are some things you can expect in week 6 of postpartum recovery:
1. Your menstrual cycle
If you are bottle feeding, your period may have returned already. At your 6 week check, talk to your doctor or midwife about using tampons if that’s something you want to do — they’re not usually recommended for use until at least 6 weeks as it can increase the risk of infection.
If you are breastfeeding you may not return to having normal periods until you begin to reduce your feeds and that’s because the hormone that helps your body produce milk, prolactin, also stops you from ovulating and having your period
Whether you’re breastfeeding or not, it’s common to have irregular periods for months after birth.
2. Intimacy & contraception
It’s likely that your doctor recommended you wait at least 6 weeks after you give birth to have sex — and you may be getting cleared to have sex at around this time.
While this is often an exciting step in the recovery process, clearance to have sex does not necessarily mean you will feel mentally or physically ready to get intimate in this way — and many women find their sex drive doesn’t return for much longer. If you don’t feel like having sex just yet, remember your feelings are valid. Have open conversations with your partner about how you feel & talk bout other ways you can connect and feel intimate.
If you are feeling up to it, start slow and use lubrication. Remember, sex should be enjoyable, so if you experience any pain, stop and consult your physician.
If you are not trying for another baby and even if sex is the last thing on your mind now is a good time to talk about your future plans make sure to use contraception as you can become pregnant again as soon as 3 weeks after you gave birth, even if you are breastfeeding. This is something to discuss at your 6 week postpartum check-up!
3. Your emotions
It’s common for mixed emotions to continue as your hormones are still adjusting and you’re taking care of a newborn — maybe for the first time! Feeling exhausted or overwhelmed at this stage is normal. Deeper feelings of depression, anxiety, or other emotions should be discussed with your doctor, partner, friends, and family.
4. Your body & physical activity
As we mentioned, you’ll likely be cleared for exercise at your 6 week check, although sometimes your doctor may recommend waiting a little longer. It’s really important to start off slow, warm up and cool down properly, and stop if you feel any pain or discomfort. Listen to your body & don’t push yourself at this early stage.
Pelvic floor exercises are still important at this stage whether you had a vaginal or cesarean birth because they can help with issues such as incontinence, and they can improve your sex life (for whenever you’re ready!).
How’s your postpartum journey, mama? Let us know in the comments!
Download our app for more healthy living tips in pregnancy and motherhood
