Recovery from labor and delivery To adequately recover from the hard work of labor and delivery, new mothers need plenty of sleep and nourishment. Recovery is different for everyone, and depends in part on the length and strength of your labor and whether you had an episiotomy or cesarean birth. Return to the Pregnancy and Related Care page. Warning signs during recovery During recovery, a number of complications can occur. Bleeding with a foul odor Very large blood clots in the lochia Lower abdominal pain or discomfort Painful, red, warm lump in breast Return to the Pregnancy and Related Care page.
Nutrition is extremely important during recovery from labor and delivery.
In addition, mothers who breastfeed their babies need extra calories, protein, calcium and plenty of fluids. Nursing mothers need about 500 extra calories each day in addition to their pre-pregnancy consumption. Meals should be well-balanced and nutritious, including servings from the range of food groups. Return to the Pregnancy and Related Care page. For women with uncomplicated vaginal deliveries, moderate exercise can begin soon after delivery.