Your body changes a lot during pregnancy, working hard to keep your baby safe and healthy in your womb up until childbirth. The process is similar after giving birth. Your body goes through a lot of healing and physical changes to enable you to take care of your baby and get you back on your regular routine.

(Photo by Aditya Romansa on Unsplash)

Aiding your body through its natural healing process is crucial in preventing possible postpartum infections, which are not uncommon especially if delivery was difficult. The key: knowing what signs to look out for and practicing proper hygiene!

Know your risk factors
Some women are more at risk for postpartum infection. If you experienced premature rupture of membranes, frequent cervical examination, prolonged labor or an emergency cesarean section, listen well to your body during your recovery period for signs of infection.

Know the early signs of postpartum infection
A postpartum infection starts when bacteria in your body begin to grow unchecked on exposed tissue during delivery – usually on your genital tract shortly after childbirth.

Signs of infection pop up within 10 days after delivery. Bleeding and vaginal discharge within a few days after delivery is normal. But if the blood clots are bigger (say, more than the diameter of a one peso coin) or bleeding continues after four days, or if your vaginal discharge has a foul odor, then this may be a sign to see your doctor immediately. Also talk to your doctor if you experience discharge, increasing swelling or tenderness around an incision or wound.

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Practice proper feminine hygiene
If you gave birth vaginally, and especially if you sustained a perineal tear, help prevent possible infection around your genital and areas with gentle and careful cleansing. To help you with that, you'll need a little squirt bottle usually called a peri bottle, usually given by the doctor or can also be found in drug stores. Ask your doctor for the instructions on how to use it in the postpartum phase. Don't forget to sterilize the bottle before using it!

Consider also including a gentle, pH-balanced feminine wash in your washing routine, just like Human Nature's Natural Feminine Wash. Usual soap and water can be too harsh for the vaginal area and can strip it too much of its natural oils. A good feminine wash can help you keep clean and more importantly won't harm the natural vaginal flora which protects the area from infections. A feminine wash with tea tree can also help calm itching and discomfort from healing wounds.

Human Nature Feminine Washes are 100% free from harmful chemicals such as skin-irritating SLS/SLES, parabens and synthetic fragrances.

Be sure to talk with your doctor about best postpartum hygiene practices and of course, never miss a postpartum checkup!