Mother & Child · 5 min read
The first forty days: what new mothers are rarely told
The weeks after birth ask as much of a mother as the pregnancy did. Practical guidance from our obstetric and paediatric teams on recovery, feeding and asking for help.
Attention understandably concentrates on the birth itself, but the weeks that follow shape recovery just as much — physically and emotionally.
Expect bleeding to continue for some weeks, tiredness to be significant, and feeding to take practice. None of this means anything is wrong. Fever, heavy bleeding, severe pain, or a wound that becomes red or hot should be reviewed promptly.
Feeding difficulties are common and almost always solvable with support — our lactation team helps with latch, supply and positioning, and there is no prize for struggling alone.
Mood matters too. Some low days are normal; persistent sadness, anxiety or a sense of detachment lasting beyond a fortnight deserves a conversation, and help is available and effective.
This article is general information, not medical advice for your individual case. If something here sounds like your situation, book a consultation and we will look at it properly.