THE SKINNY ON YOUR POST-BIRTH BODY

BLEEDING

WHAT’S NORMAL?

New moms often feel they are leaking from every orifice – breastmilk, blood and tears. And it’s true. Natural and caesar moms both experience postpartum bleeding – called lochia – when the body expels placental tissue and mucus. This bleeding is usually heavier for NVD moms than caesar moms and can include blood clots, so don’t worry if you see them. The bleeding usually lasts three to six weeks, reducing in heaviness and colour over time. Use pads and avoid tampons –rather go back to them after your six-week check-up.

WHAT’S NOT NORMAL?

“See your doctor if you feel itching, burning, smell a foul smell or have a fever,” says gynaecologist & obstetrician Dr Bronwyn Moore. And if it’s really gushing and you feel lightheaded, get yourself to your gynae immediately –a haemorrhage can be dangerous.

BREASTS

WHAT’S NORMAL?

There’s a myth that breastfeeding makes your boobs sag. But the American Society of Plastic Surgeons says it’s pregnancy