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Your body after having a baby

Mum's first 24 hours after birth

Find out what to expect in the first 24 hours after giving birth. Having a baby is different for everyone and it’s important to take time to recover.

Your first few days after giving birth

You will have many physical and emotional changes in the first few days after the birth of your baby. Find out what to expect after giving birth.

Birth injury (to the mother)

Birth injuries to the mother, such as perineal tears and pelvic floor damage can sometimes occur. Support and treatment is available.

Looking after your body after having a baby

Over the last 9 months, your body has had to change to accommodate your growing baby and preparing to give birth.

Bladder weakness after birth

Leaking urine after childbirth is very common. It can be embarrassing and inconvenient, but there are ways to improve bladder weakness.

Pelvic floor exercises

Pelvic floor exercises help to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor which come under great strain in pregnancy and childbirth.

Postnatal depression

Many women experience the 'baby blues' after pregnancy, but when feelings persist beyond these early days, it may be a sign of depression.

Anxiety and parenthood

Postnatal anxiety develops in the first year of parenthood and is common in both parents. Learn to recognise the signs and get the support you need.

Periods after pregnancy

After you've had your baby, you may wonder what will happen with your periods. Find out what to expect after birth and when your periods might return.

Body image after having a baby

Giving birth can affect your body in many ways, but here are ways to feel body confident and help your body recover after having a baby.

Losing weight safely after birth

It is important to make healthy choices when trying to lose weight after pregnancy. Learn more about exercise and healthy eating after giving birth.

Sleep after having a baby

Learn more about some of the sleep challenges you might have after having a baby. Find out how to manage your sleep and when you should get help.

Safe return to exercise after pregnancy

Exercise can help you recover after childbirth, make you stronger and improve mood. Here are some tips on how to exercise safely after a pregnancy.

Sex after having a baby

There are no rules about when to start having sex again after you’ve given birth. Don’t rush into it. If sex hurts, it won’t be pleasurable.

Call us and speak to a Maternal Child Health Nurse for personal advice and guidance.

Need further advice or guidance from our maternal child health nurses?

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