Your Post Pregnancy Body
Adapted from the following babycenter articles: ''Postpartum Skin" ''Ask the Experts" ''How Your Body Changes After Childbirth" and ''Feeling Good About Your Post-Baby Body"
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are caused by tiny tears in the elastic supportive tissue that lies just underneath your skin. They can appear anywhere on the body where the skin stretches rapidly due to weight gain, including the abdomen, thighs, hips, or breasts. Genetics seems to play a role; if your mother or sister got them, you're more likely to be affected.
While there are no miracle cures for eliminating stretch marks, there are several options for minimizing their appearance. Some studies have shown that topical ointments such as tretinoin cream may help, however they must be applied soon after you give birth. (Note: Some topical treatments are not safe to use while you are pregnant and/or nursing, so consult with your healthcare provider.) There's some evidence that laser treatments can help restore the skin's elasticity and pigmentation; if you're interested, talk to a dermatologist. However, this type of cosmetic procedure isn't usually covered by insurance.
Skin Pigmentation Changes
The dark, facial splotches that sometimes appear during pregnancy are known as chloasma, melasma, or, more commonly, the "mask of pregnancy." In most cases, they will disappear as soon as your hormone levels return to normal. To prevent their return, use a broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher every day.
Be aware that contraceptives that contain estrogen (such as birth control pills, the ring and the patch) can make chloasma worse. Consider using an alternative method, such as the progestin-only "mini-pill," progesterone injections (Depo-Provera) or non-hormonal methods.
If the patches don't lighten to your satisfaction within a year, talk to a dermatologist about treatment options, which may include a bleaching cream (such as hydroquinone), a topical medicine that contains tretinoin (such as Retin-A) or a chemical peel (such as glycolic acid).
Oily or Dry Skin
You may notice that your skin becoming noticeably oilier or drier after your baby is born. Stress, hormonal swings and the fatigue brought on by new parenthood are common factors. Be sure to use a mild cleanser and moisturizer, and stick with oil-free cosmetics if you develop acne.
Note: Dry skin can be a symptom of an underactive thyroid, a condition that affects about 2 to 5 percent of new moms during the year after they give birth. Your healthcare provider can do a quick blood test to find out whether you have this condition.
Weight Loss
Most women are anxious to return to their pre-pregnancy weight as soon as possible, but be patient. You'll lose a good 15 pounds or so as soon as the baby is born, however the rest will come off more gradually.
Partly that's due to your uterus: By the time you give birth, your uterus is about 15 times heavier than before you conceived. Within minutes after your baby is born, contractions cause your uterus to begin to shrink, clenching itself like a fist, its crisscrossed fibers tightening in the same way they do during labor. This may cause you to feel cramps known as afterpains. It will take four to six weeks before it's back to its normal pre-pregnancy weight of about 2 1/2 ounces. This process is called involution of the uterus.
If losing weight is a priority, you probably already know the two essentials for shedding pounds: eating sensibly and exercising regularly. Many health clubs and YMCAs offer postnatal fitness classes; you can even find workouts you can do with your baby, such as "mommy and me" yoga classes. You may also want to invest in a few exercise videos, for those days when you can't leave the house to exercise.
Why am I feeling so moody?
Hormonal dips and surges may contribute to any emotional swings you're feeling now, along with discomfort you're still experiencing from labor and birth, the physical demands of caring for a new baby, and the emotional adjustment to motherhood. Whatever the cause, it's common to feel a little blue, usually beginning a few days after giving birth and lasting for a few days. If the feeling doesn't go away on its own in the first few weeks, call your caregiver. You may be suffering from postpartum depression - a more serious problem that requires treatment.
Recuperating from pregnancy and childbirth isn't always easy, but don't forget, you have just brought a wonderful new person into your life. You have begun the endlessly rewarding journey of being a parent.
