Author - Motherhood Medical Team

Introduction: You finally have your newborn in your hand and instead of swooning over the arrival of the cutie, you hear some random myths telling you what to do and what not to do, for you and your baby. Sounds annoying, doesn’t it? Worry not, mommy, you got me, as I am here to bust some after-delivery myths as well as share some postpartum depression care tips.

Myths About Postpartum Care

1. Avoid ‘hot’ or ‘cold’ foods: The next time you hear someone telling you to avoid eggplant (referred to be ‘hot’) or okra (‘cold’), completely ignore it. Science disproves this and declares it to be unfounded. Your body needs all the nourishment it can get since you recently gave birth. Eat a balanced diet and limit your intake of extra calories.
2. No lifting heavy weights if you had a C-section: You will gradually regain strength and be able to resume your normal activities and lift heavy objects as you did before even after a C-section, after six weeks.
3. Eat betel leaf (Paan) for calcium: Eating "Paan" won't give you any calcium; instead, it will just darken your teeth.
4. Eat ‘Ghee’ to strengthen your joints: In order to relax your joints in time for labor, the mom's body secretes a hormone called relaxin throughout pregnancy. The effects of this hormone persist for some time even after delivery. With time, your joint strength will cause it to return. So’Ghee’ has nothing to do with joint strength.
5. Ajwain (carom seed) water must be consumed after delivery: It is not bound for you to have it if you don’t like the taste of it. You always have the option to switch to other drinks, as long as your body is getting enough fluid intake.

Tips for self-care after delivery

• Drink plenty of water; breastfeeding mothers especially need to do so.
• As much as you can, rest.
• Provide a balanced diet to nourish your body.
• Apply a hot water bag, heating pad, or hot water bottle to the area to relieve any abdominal pain.
• In the postpartum days, constipation is typical. Drink a lot of water and consume more meals high in fiber to help it go away.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced super specialists backed by the latest in infrastructure and facilities. We have the best Gynaecologist who is experts in handling complex deliveries, gynecological needs, and other surgeries including a range of laparoscopic surgeries.

Do take an appointment with the best maternity hospital at a center closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with our doctors, please book your appointment here.