A New Beginning

Physical Changes

What can help:

Go when you feel the urge

Drink 6-8 glasses of water a day

BOWEL ELIMINATION Hormones, medications, dehydration, worry about pain, and decreased physical activity can make bowel function sluggish after birth. Your first bowel movement usually occurs within 2 to 3 days. And when the time comes, it could be a little uncomfortable, and you may feel anxious or fearful. Having a Bowel Movement After Birth

Eat fiber-rich foods

Walk or do yoga stretches

When it’s time: • Try to relax

• Take some deep breaths • Put your feet on a stool

• Rest your elbows on your knees • Hold a clean sanitary pad from the front to support the perineum

Take a stool softener if prescribed and relax

Tell your health care provider if you:

• Have severe pain or rectal bleeding • Feel you need to take a laxative

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Chapter 1: Physical Changes