Medical Update August 2024

Medical Guide, August 2024— 17 Challenges new mothers face and how to handle them P regnancy is an excit- ing time in a woman’s life. Whether a woman is a fi rst-time mother or expecting again, this is a unique time that’s unlike any other in a woman’s life. Once the baby shower gifts have been tucked away and it’s been a few weeks postpartum, that high of new motherhood may be replaced with various challenges, which can be especially unique for new mothers. Life as a new mom certainly can bring about immense modi fi cations to lifestyle, physical appearance and even mood. Here are some com- mon changes that come from new motherhood and strategies regarding how to handle them. Breastfeeding struggles The saying ‘breast is best’ has been around for some time. Accord- ing to Breastfeeding Mama, breast milk has antibodies that help a baby fi ght o ff infection. It also evolves as needed to meet the needs of ba- bies as they grow and develop. Some women are unable to breast- feed successfully, and some moms may feel the stigma of not being able to provide naturally for their children. According to the O ffi ce on Women’s Health, low milk supply, sore nipples, engorge- ment, plugged ducts, inverted or fl at nipples, and infections may make breastfeeding di ffi cult for women. Working with a lactation consultant could help new mothers iron out any di ffi culties they encounter. Choos- ing to pump breast milk and then using bottles are some additional ways to work around the chal- lenges of breastfeeding. Physical recovery Many people talk about how di ffi cult child- birth can be, but there isnÕt much shared about the recovery. Those who had vaginal deliveries can expect soreness and injury recovery if tears occurred during delivery. After delivery, a woman will shed the super fi cial mucous membrane that lined the uterus during pregnancy, says theMayo Clinic. A discharge made up of this and blood can occur for weeks. After- pains, which are like con- tractions, may occur as well. Incontinence and hemorrhoids also may occur after delivering a baby. Women who have undergone Cesarean sec- tions will have to recover from the surgery. Fa- tigue, pain at the incision site, and avoidance of heavy lifting is necessary. It can take weeks be- fore a new mother starts to feel like herself. Pa- tience, relying on others for help and making time to focus on oneself can help new moms heal. Mood changes According to Post- partumDepression.org, one in 10 women will experience postpartum depression after giving birth (other studies sug- gest one in seven women develop postpartum de- pression). The condition generally lasts between three and six months. Younger mothers under age 25 may be more vul- nerable to postpartum depression. Even if full-blown postpartum depression does not occur, hor- monal changes post-de- livery can cause mood swings that are similar to those experienced during pregnancy. Feel- ing overwhelmed, short- tempered, resentment, and similar emotions can occur. Talking to others or even a professional therapist can assist new moms. In the event of severe symptoms, a doc- tor may suggest a short course of antidepres- sants or anti-anxiety medication. Changes are to be expected when baby arrives. Moms can do their best to cope with the ups and downs.