Congratulations! You’ve just given birth, and now it’s time to start your postpartum journey. The postpartum unit is where you’ll spend the first precious moments with your new baby and recover from childbirth. But what exactly happens there? Let’s walk through what to expect during your stay, so you can feel more at ease and prepared.
1. Your First Few Hours: Recovery and Bonding
After delivery, whether vaginal or C-section, you’ll be moved to the postpartum unit, where you’ll start recovering and bonding with your baby. In the first few hours, nurses will monitor your vital signs, assess how your uterus is contracting, and make sure your pain is under control. You’ll also be encouraged to start breastfeeding as soon as possible, with lactation consultants available to support you. Expect lots of skin-to-skin contact with your baby, which helps with bonding and breastfeeding.
2. Frequent Check-Ins from Nurses
Your care team on the postpartum unit will regularly check on you and your baby. They will monitor your bleeding (known as lochia), help manage pain, and guide you in caring for your baby. Nurses will assist you with things like diaper changes, swaddling, and breastfeeding. Don’t hesitate to ask for help—they’re there to make your transition into motherhood as smooth as possible.
3. Breastfeeding Support
If you plan to breastfeed, the postpartum unit is where you’ll likely have your first hands-on experience. You’ll receive guidance on latching, feeding positions, and how to tell if your baby is feeding well. If breastfeeding is challenging, lactation consultants are available to offer expert advice and solutions. And if you’re planning to bottle-feed, they’ll assist you with that too!
4. Rest and Pain Management
Childbirth is no small feat, so it’s important to focus on your recovery. You’ll have access to pain relief, including medications and comfort measures, depending on your delivery method. Take advantage of the downtime when your baby is sleeping to rest yourself. If you had a C-section, you’ll be encouraged to get up and walk as soon as you can, which helps with healing, but don’t overdo it. The key is finding a balance between caring for your baby and giving your body the time it needs to heal.
5. Caring for Your Baby
You’ll be doing most of the care for your baby with support from the nurses. They’ll help you learn how to care for the umbilical cord, give your baby their first bath, and answer any questions you have about newborn care. You’ll also be asked to track your baby’s feedings and diapers, which is important for ensuring your baby is eating well and staying hydrated. Don’t worry if you feel unsure at first—the nurses will guide you every step of the way!
6. Your Emotional Well-Being
Postpartum emotions can be a whirlwind. From the excitement of meeting your baby to the exhaustion of recovery, you may experience a range of emotions. Your care team will also check in on your mental health to ensure you’re adjusting well to your new role. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed or tearful during this time, but don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re struggling. Many hospitals offer resources for postpartum depression and anxiety.
7. Preparing for Discharge
Before you know it, it’ll be time to go home. The discharge process usually happens within 24-48 hours after a vaginal birth and about 3-4 days after a C-section, depending on your recovery. Before you leave, your nurse or doctor will go over essential care instructions for both you and your baby, such as when to follow up with your OB and pediatrician, signs of postpartum complications, and tips for adjusting to life at home with a newborn.
8. What You Can Expect from Your Care Team
Your postpartum care team is there to make sure you and your baby are healthy, comfortable, and ready for the next steps in your journey. They’ll answer your questions, provide support, and empower you with the confidence to care for your little one once you leave the hospital. Use this time to ask anything on your mind—whether it’s about your recovery, breastfeeding, or newborn care. No question is too small!
Remember
Your stay on the postpartum unit is an important time for recovery and bonding. While it can feel a bit overwhelming, your care team is there to support you in every way. Focus on resting, caring for your baby, and asking for help whenever you need it. You’ve got this —one step at a time!