Postpartum Recovery is the return of the postpartum body to full pre-pregnancy state and function within the six week period after giving birth extended on until the return of a standard healthy menstrual cycle.
Postpartum Recovery Checklist:
1. Full uterine cleanse.*^r
2. Uterus organ and ligaments return to normal size and position.*+rw
3. Neighboring organs (colon, bladder, intestines) must return to normal position and function.*+rw
4. Stretched vulva, perineum and vaginal canal skin tissue must regain tone and shape and heal from tears and sutures and scar tissue.*+r
5. Water retention or swelling must disperse.*^
6. Pelvic or spinal bone injuries should be assessed and addressed.+
7. Blood and fluid loss during labor and delivery must be replenished to allow for the body to recover energy, heal and produce breastmilk.^r
8. The birth experience, labor and delivery should be emotionally processed.~&
9. The Matrescence transition into motherhood should be acknowledged and supported.%&
10. Return to sex should be painless*$
11.Menstrual return should consist of 3 consecutive months of standard healthy cycles — 4 days menses, pain free, red color, no side-effects, 28-30 day cycles*
Professional Resource Key
*Steam Practitioner
+Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist
^Postpartum Food Therapy and/or Acupuncturist Herbs
~Postpartum Doula/Support Person/Friend
&Healer/Therapist
%Community/Family/Support Groups and/or Healer/Therapist
$Sexual Wellness Coach
r Rest within the first 6 weeks
w Abdominal Wrapping within the first 6 weeks
