Health Tips for November 20

Health Tip: Recovering From C-Section

Cesarean section is a surgical alternative to vaginal birth. After this surgery, the new mom needs time to recover. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers this list of what moms who have delivered by cesarean can expect: You'll have an incision in your abdomen, which may feel sore for a few weeks. Your doctor may give you pain medication to help you feel better. Typically, you'll need to stay in the hospital from two to four days. When you go home, it's important to take it easy and limit activity for as long as your doctor recommends. Minor abdominal cramping usually is normal, particularly for breast-feeding moms. Discharge or some bleeding may occur for four to six weeks after the surgery. Health Tip: Symptoms of Postpartum Depression Welcoming a new baby is a happy and exciting time, but it's also full of stress. Postpartum depression affects many new moms, and it's important to recognize the signs and seek treatment. The American Academy of Family Physicians lists these warning signs of postpartum depression: Persistent feelings of sadness and crying. Having little desire to eat. Significant weight gain or loss. Irritability, anxiety and restlessness. Inability to find pleasure or interest in life. Feeling exhausted or having no motivation to get things done. Insomnia. Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness or guilt. Having little interest in your newborn.