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mybumpbirthandbeyond · 1 year

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Walking on a Dream

The 2 days at home before surgery flew past. I said goodbye to my kids the night before we left knowing that the next time I would see them, I would be two weeks post-op and would look very, very different. They were no different to usual. My son grasped it a bit better, but their attention span and emotions weren’t in line with what was a pretty big deal!

The morning before surgery ended up being my first, and last CrossFit class since before Christmas. We had booked to go to CrossFit Green near the hospital and it was always my plan that I would do a final class in Dublin before surgery. I had just hoped that I’d also make it to some in my own gym before. It turned out to be the first (and last I hope) workout that I seriously considered quitting. I was so deconditioned from being out of the gym for a month and still not 100%. My heart rate skyrocketed pretty quickly. I knew I would never reach the numbers on the board. At the end, I didn’t actually do as badly as I thought given all the factors, but if I hadn’t been getting surgery, I would have been seriously pissed off at myself for even of thinking of quitting.

Later that day, was my marking appointment. That appointment had been in my head since my surgery was booked - maybe then it would all seem real, because that appointment would mean it was really happening. What I didn’t anticipate, were the nerves. It was like Éilís read my mind when I went in - “a lot of patients feel nervous for this appointment but leave feeling much better,” which was exactly what happened.

I signed the consent form to confirm I wanted to go ahead with the surgery. There was a section to say I understood there were alternatives to surgery. We both had a good laugh at that: “I think I’ve exhausted all of those 😂”

I took the final pictures of my diastasis that night. I didn’t sleep terribly, but I wouldn’t say I slept well. I was fasting from 4am (I set an alarm and took a protein bar just before) and no liquid after 8am.

I walked the 15 minutes to the hospital with Alex. He already knew - I wanted to carry my hospital bag as it would be the last time I was carrying anything for a while. I’m stubborn, but I had my reasons - I don’t like asking for help and if I can do it myself I will do. I was admitted at 10am. We went to a small waiting room until I was called. We waited only 15 minutes before they told me that this was it and we had to say our goodbyes then. That felt so strange, but I wasn’t at all nervous. Poor Alex looked a bit lost, but I felt pretty calm and definitely felt ready.

I was taken to a bay to get changed into a robe, compression socks and to give a urine sample. I was there just minutes, before a doctor started taking my medical history. I didn’t even have a chance to get changed once he left, as the next thing two nurses came to get my urine sample, take a blood sample and insert a cannula for my IV. Everything felt like it was happening at breakneck speed. I literally had questions about practically everything in my medical history being fired at me, as someone else took blood at the same time.

By the time that was done, I noticed everyone in the waiting area were being taken at different points and leaving the area we were in. What I didn’t realise was they were being taken along more or less for surgery. I don’t know what I expected, but I somehow thought I was going to be taken to another room to wait. I didn’t think the next part would be the holding area right next to the operating theatre!

I had absolutely no concept of time, but the last time I checked my phone it was 11:29 and at that point I was called. I knew my surgery had been scheduled for 1:30pm and I knew that meant nothing as such, but I had in my head I had ages to wait. When I was told this was the point I would be leaving all my stuff and this was it, I was pretty shocked. I was led to the holding area where they drew the curtain around me in a room full of patients waiting for surgery, just like I was. The only difference was, surely I had a while yet to wait?

The nurse came in to go through a final few things. She asked me had I been waiting long for surgery. In terms of that morning: no 😂 in terms of everything else: it felt like it. She patted my leg and told me it wouldn’t be much longer. I don’t know how I managed to stop myself asking, ‘how is this possible because everything seems to be happening so fast’ 🙈 I have absolutely no idea how long I was sitting there before Éilís came over. I was aware I could see lots of pairs feet under the curtain that were moving about and no doubt leaving for surgery. I could hear surgeons and anaesthesiologists alike speaking to patients and leading them away. Probably the thing that set me off was hearing someone at the desk in the room say something about, ‘Éilís Fitzgerald’s patient.’ It wasn’t me they were speaking about, but my heart rate hit the roof and I realised I had to chill the hell out if I was going to be sitting there, especially if it was going to be for some time yet. I tried to just close my eyes and take deep breaths to calm down. I think I actually even drifted off for a few minutes I was so successful 🤣

When Éilís came in, I honestly felt like it was a dream. Apart from the fact when I had dreamt about that moment in the months previously, it usually ended with me being told it wasn’t happening and I had to go away and put more work in 🙈 Thankfully, this was real this time and there was no going back. We spoke for a few minutes and she asked me if I had any last minute questions, but the answer was no. I don’t know why I felt so calm at that point. It’s hard to describe - yes the day felt like someone had pushed the fast forward button, and very surreal. However other than small moments in the lead up, I didn’t ever feel anxious or nervous. All I felt was calm and ready. This was absolutely what I wanted, with the person I wanted to do it, and I knew I was in the best hands. I had long made peace with decision that this was how my journey was going to end up. We were finally there.

I had a few more minutes to sit before they were ready for me, so I stayed where I was. I say a few more minutes, but I genuinely have zero idea of how long it was. The next thing I know, the nurse and the anaesthesiologist himself came over. I instantly liked him. He introduced himself as, “I’m the person who’s going to put you to sleep with some lullabies. Shall we go do that now?” He then apologised for the wait. I said to him, this is all happening a lot quicker than I expected. I really don’t feel like I’ve been waiting at all. “Oh we all feel bad you’ve been waiting so long.” It was crazy 😅 I genuinely felt like I was in the weirdest time warp. Everyone else thought I’d been waiting ages, but I felt like I hadn’t been waiting at all.

I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it certainly wasn’t that I would walk out the holding room only to be one or two doors down into the operating theatre. Or that I would just casually walk in and then be told to hop up on the table 😅 At that point they placed the wee sticky pads on my chest for all the leads for the monitors and applied the compression pumps to my legs there and then.

I was trying to take everything in. I couldn’t quite believe even at that point that it was actually happening. I didn’t even feel nervous at all, but there was a real sense of relief and excitement. There were loads of people in the room getting ready behind me. I was aware of Éilís coming through the door to my right. The last thing I remember was the anaesthesiologist asking me the colour of the cannula, ‘pink to make the boys wink’ 😂 and then a pink mask being placed over my nose and mouth. I just remember that sweet smell of the mask that was the same as when I used gas and air in my first labour. I could feel the gas I was inhaling, and the nurse told me it was just oxygen, but I guess it probably wasn’t because I don’t remember anything else after that 😂 Either that or the timing of that was exactly at the same minute as I was given the knockout. Last time I trust someone that tells me that 🤣

My first memory was kind of coming to in recovery and thinking, ‘whoa I think I’m going to be sick’ and promptly retching. I wasn’t actually sick, but a doctor came over sharpish with a sick bag and then I was gone again. I just remember thinking, ‘bloody hell why do I have to go and test the abs straight away doing something like that 😂🙈’ I vaguely remember being told when I was going to be taken upstairs, but I felt like I was being pulled back under and couldn’t fight off the sleep. I remember being left in the room, but it was a colossal effort to keep my eyes open. The last thing I recall at that point was being aware of whoever was next me - the woman and her husband were speaking Spanish. I felt reassured that I must be okay, because I heard and understood everything they said (although if you ask me now I couldn’t tell you what they said!) I always thought I’d be the one waking up speaking Spanish under the influence of the painkillers, but it turns out I was just meant to be in the bed next door 😅

The next thing I realised my visitors were in the room. It took absolutely everything to force my eyes to stay open, but the fact that they were there I knew I wanted to be conscious. I still had absolutely no concept of time. They were only there a few minutes before Éilís came in. She could have told me absolutely anything and I would struggle to remember. What I do remember is her taking off the binder to let me look. I have no idea how I reacted or what I said. I’m guessing I shook my head in disbelief (because that’s still how I react now). Despite the fact my tissues were very stretched, somehow the quality of those tissues was actually very good for the sutures to take hold. There are no guarantees, but it’s likely the load I had put through them and the work I had put in which made the difference. I was told my diet was going to be changed due to the fact that she thought I might get really sick from anaesthetic because of the volume of it going through someone smaller framed like me. Somehow though, I managed to eat every meal I had and I didn’t retch again. I wasn’t at all sick and have no idea why. Maybe my body was just able to cope somehow.

I’ve spoken to a few people who said they had slept great the night of surgery, but I didn’t at all. Despite the painkillers and feeling like I was in a fog, my brain just wouldn’t switch off (no change there then) and of course the nurse came in regularly to see if I needed more pain relief so it felt like the night after I had each of my kids, where they just keep checking on you. That’s obviously so reassuring, and if I was asleep I wouldn’t have noticed, but I just didn’t sleep well for whatever reason.

In the morning, my catheter was taken out at 7am and I knew I’d be up and going to the toilet for my first walk. The nurse helped me the first time and I was immediately shocked at how straight I was able to stand without forcing it. I had expected the worse, so was pleasantly surprised when it just felt comfortable to stand almost straight. The nurses changed my bed when I came back because they said I was a query for staying another night, which was reinforced by the fact I was told to make another dinner choice. I knew most patients left the next day, so that was a bit confusing, but I put it down to my low blood pressure. If my blood pressure is anything, it’s always low. When I had my son, it was dangerously low the morning after given birth and I couldn’t stand. I knew it wasn’t as low the morning after surgery, but everyone remarked on it. ‘Is your blood pressure usually low?’ was a question I was asked by a couple of nurses and the physio.

When Éilís came in to check on her patients, she confirmed there would be no reason why I couldn’t leave that afternoon after showering etc. It sounded like I had been marked as a query to ensure if needed, the bed was there. That visit I remembered a bit better 😅 she took the binder off again to show me and said she was happy with how everything looked.

My nurse came back in and said she would change my belly button dressing after my shower. I managed to shower myself which I was surprised at, but so relieved. It just felt amazing to feel clean. My dressings were changed and I was then able to get dressed and put my binder back on myself. Of course, I was knackered by that time, so all I wanted to do was sleep. I was waiting on my prescription when Alex came in. The nurse read it out and I just remembered looking over at Alex thinking, that can’t be right. It sounded like the only painkillers I was being prescribed were paracetamol! Alex said, “Claire, when I had surgery on my hand I ended up with more than that, that can’t be right.” I asked Alex to get the nurse who had been with Éilís in the morning to ask her. Her face when I explained was an absolute picture! It turned out the doctor who had signed it hadn’t realised I had an abdominoplasty! 🙈 It was promptly corrected 😂 I can handle a lot, but wouldn’t have liked to be climbing the walls with the pain later thinking, why didn’t I say something?

The hospital physio visited me before I was discharged. It felt completely ironic if I’m honest. At the very beginning, we now know I should have been seen by a physio on the ward after having my son, and ever since then I’ve lucked out when it comes to physios. I couldn’t help but smile wryly at the fact I wasn’t being discharged post-op until I had been seen. She said my surgeon had told her I was pretty clear on everything I could and couldn’t do, but she just wanted to check coughing, breathing and log rolling. She readjusted the bed and when I log rolled, she told me I was really strong in doing it so she had no concerns. The coughing was no doubt the worst thing about being post-op. It is absolute agony, but a necessary evil to ensure I didn’t end up with a chest infection or worse post anaesthetic.

Before leaving, she took my blood pressure thinking she would get me to walk the corridors and then downstairs. I was game, but she decided because of my low blood pressure we wouldn’t do it. I felt able to, but this was day 1: there would be plenty time to test the waters when the time was right. She handed me a leaflet for post abdominal surgery and apologised: “you can’t do the majority on here anyway which I’m sure you know, but I mistakenly crossed out walking as well. You can walk and that’s it.” 😂

We were lucky to be staying across the road from the hospital. However, I was more than a bit mortified when Alex said he’d be taking me in a wheelchair to the apartment then would return it to the hospital. That led to a hell of an argument 🤣 but in the end I had no energy to fight him on it long enough to get my way and walk myself. I’ll probably never forgive him for making me do that. Talk about overprotective! I love him, but honestly I swear he insists on some things knowing how much it’ll wind me up!

I thought I’d struggle sleeping at night, but thankfully not. Although positioning myself took time, we got there eventually. Alex drove me crazy at times, but I can’t fault him as a nurse. He was on top of my painkillers and what I could take and when, did everything for me like dressing me, drying my hair and helping me clean my belly button. He cooked, brought everything to me and opened every door before I could even think of doing it. The odd time I slipped up, he gave me the hard stare that I’m pretty sure he reserves for me when I piss him off because, I’m ‘too stubborn.’ 🤣🙈

The second day I probably wanted to go out for a walk, but I was exhausted, and ended up napping on the couch. I hadn’t felt great that day so I listened to my body. While I was keenly aware of how everything felt like it was going better than I had expected, I knew I would now play a part in that in terms of what I was doing. The Monday after surgery, I went for a small walk and although I was walking a bit gingerly, I was pretty much straight when I was walking. I’m naturally a really fast walker, so to see Alex slow down for me was a reality check, but I knew I would get stronger at some point and wasn’t bothered how long it took, I was just grateful to be doing well.

That evening, I spotted my ankles were pretty swollen. I knew going to bed I would be immobile for the whole night and while I could have taken the compression socks off between days 3 and 5 post-op, I made the decision to keep them on at night. I also decided that on top of walking outside during the day, I would walk lengths of the long corridor in the evenings outside our apartment. Alex said it wasn’t quite 100m so I would do ‘there and back’ a few times. The first time I did 4 times, only for Alex to tell me it was quite quick so I decided to do more. Every night thereafter from then on, (with the exception of two nights when I was just too tired) I did 10 full lengths of the corridor which would take about 20 minutes (at the start) on top of any walk during the day. I wasn’t actively trying to do them quicker (Alex doesn’t believe that, but it’s true), but each time got quicker and easier. It gave me a bit of movement before bed, and equally some alone time and headspace to try and figure things out.

The next day was the only blip in my initial recovery. I noticed there seemed to be an infection at my belly button. I had been told that was really common given what belly buttons are, but I just knew it wasn’t quite right. When I explained how it looked over the phone, Éilís agreed it sounded infected and prescribed me antibiotics. I probably caught it a day earlier than maybe normal, as the next day it was red around it and looked more infected, but by that time I was already getting antibiotics into my system so thankfully, had no issues with a fever or anything else. I’ve always been hyper aware of everything going on at my tummy and that wasn’t about to change post-op. I think that’s probably why I caught it so early.

At 7 days post-op, I had my first physio consult. We discussed surgery and how I was doing and they had a look at my tummy. They both remarked how upright I was and how good it looked. I think Antony even commented I was looking ‘jacked.’ I have no idea what he was seeing, but I’ll take it 😅 The whole thing was surreal. I couldn’t believe a week had passed since that absolute blur of a day that would change my life forever. I still can’t get over it now.

The next day, Alex was leaving to swap with my Mum, who had been looking after Cailean and Emily since the Wednesday before. We had agreed it wasn’t fair on the kids to be away from both of us for so long, so Mum would come out as Alex went home. I would be on my own for about 5 hours, with Alex threatening to lock me in if he thought I was going to do anything that wasn’t allowed 🙄 I had suggested I would do my outdoor walk before my Mum arrived, but I had to compromise to my lengths of the corridor. Even then, he wasn’t happy I would be opening the apartment door myself. When he was leaving was the first time I got emotional. He had driven me crazy as I said, but I couldn’t have done it without him. Not just surgery - everything I had gone through in the last almost 4 years. He has been my rock throughout and I’m so lucky to have him.

I was probably a bit more emotional on my own between Alex leaving and my Mum arriving, so I was glad when she arrived a bit sooner than expected. During that week, I continued being able to walk more and for longer, but still listening to my body when I needed a rest.

The Monday after Mum arrived, was probably the most eventful. I thought my infection was getting worse - although that was based on how my belly button looked. It was decided that the way I cleaned it would change - no more antiseptic or ointment, just water and instead of a dressing, a panty liner inside my vest under the binder to ensure it was wicking any moisture away from the belly button. I was relieved - it previously felt like a never ending cycle where I would clean it, try to dry it as much as possible, but it would look worse again the following day when I took the dressing off.

My Mum had arrived in Dublin with conjunctivitis in both eyes, but it was steadily getting worse. I had no idea how to access doctors while we were there, but we ended up in an out of hours clinic at a nearby hospital. She had heard how awesome the doctors were and didn’t want to miss out 😂 That was probably the first time I was in close proximity to others outside of the shops in the waiting room without my jacket on. I watched two families with toddlers waiting to be seen. I’ve been that soldier many a time with my two. I suddenly thought they’re probably looking at me thinking I’m due a baby myself…only to look down and realise, “Nope. Nobody will think that ever again.” 🥹 It was the first time it hit me, but even then it felt like the feeling was barely scratching the surface.

My final appointment before going home was to get my dressings off at 12 days post-op. It was the weirdest feeling walking into the hospital and up to Éilís’ office, when the last time I had been there was my marking appointment the afternoon before surgery. I had taken paracetamol before just because I thought it would probably hurt. By that day, I had come off all painkillers and was only occasionally taking paracetamol - usually for a headache rather than anything to do with surgery. The dressings coming off wasn’t the most pleasant experience, but it was over quickly thankfully. It was the first time I got to see my scar and I know it seems strange, but I was delighted. It was the next big part of the puzzle post-op. When the nurse got me to look in the mirror once she had trimmed the sutures and cleaned it, I think I once again shook my head. I just couldn’t believe that that was what I looked like now. I still can’t. I was told the swelling below my belly button would go down and there were some cracking bruises, but I couldn’t care less if this is how it looked from now on. I’m over the moon and blown away the results. Compared to how I came into that office 13 days previously, it was night and day.

It was even harder to comprehend when the nurse took the photos and compared them to the very first consult last March 🤯 she put them side by side and said: “you can tell you’re fit and strong, but look at the difference.” I swear I feel like one of those Churchill dogs in those adverts that used to shake it’s head. I just cannot get my head round it.

Leaving the appointment though, I felt strange and I can’t really put into words how I was feeling. There was an air of finality creeping in again and I didn’t know how to feel. I didn’t know the words to thank my surgeon and her team for everything they had done. How can you thank someone who has had such a profound impact on your life? Who has changed your life for the better? I still can’t comprehend that this is it. I still don’t feel any of this is really real. I don’t know how, or when that will change.

My team - my physios, my surgeon and of course my husband - want to protect me at the minute. I love them for it, but there’s no denying: no matter what we all do, there is a weight of expectation and I can’t ignore it forever. Even in the lovely comments on my first update post-op, I had incredible comments like: “the whole community are wondering how you’re getting on,” “the update we’ve been waiting on,” “lots of us interested having followed your journey,” and “can’t wait to see your next update”. Even that’s hard to believe. People have been following from the beginning and they want to see it through with me to the end. It blows my mind as much now, as it did in the beginning.

I came home to my kids and my husband two days after that appointment. My son has grown up with this as much as I have lived with it. There have been times he’s been fixated on my tummy, and he completely understood everything about it getting fixed by the time surgery came. It came as no surprise then, that every single day I FaceTimed him when I was away, he asked to see my tummy. When I eventually showed him, he was speechless, which is pretty impressive for an almost 4 year old, who never stops speaking! The poor wee guy couldn’t comprehend it either.

I know it might be hard to understand why I have shared everything over the years and now I have the biggest update of all, but I’m not ready to share yet. I’m really struggling with it myself. I don’t know how I feel about everything. That’s partly why I made the decision to release these blog posts first. I hoped that if I tried to process it by writing (which has always been my go to throughout this journey), maybe I could figure it out. I’m reluctant to see anyone I know yet. I was happy in my bubble in Dublin because no one knew me there. I could go out for a walk and be completely anonymous. I go out for a walk now feeling I might bump into someone. I don’t want to hide away forever, but I’m dealing with some huge emotions and thoughts right now, after what has been years of my life.

There is one thing for certain I do know in all of this - how even more incredibly lucky I am now. Not only do I have my amazing physios, I now have the most amazing surgeon. I knew that before she even laid eyes on me in person, but throughout all of this, that has just become clearer each time and of course, no more so than when I woke up post-op. Her skills as a surgeon were never in doubt; but they were the cherry on top of an incredibly kind, caring and supportive person who got me as a person, how I felt, and what I wanted to achieve from day 1. That is everything I could have asked for and more. As with everything I have experienced throughout, there will never be enough words to express my gratitude for what my team have done and continue to do for me.

I have videos and pictures from those early days post-op. I will post these when I’m ready. I know many women following are considering or are getting an abdominoplasty, and I know maybe something I share might help. Maybe even just as reassurance that if that’s the decision they’ve made, they won’t regret it.

I have never been ashamed of getting surgery. It was very clear to me, even as early as 2020, that it would be my only option. That was reaffirmed when I was opened up. There was just no way I could do it myself: no matter what I did and no matter how hard I tried, or how long I put in the work, and I know I did absolutely everything humanly possible to try.

When the time comes, I will be putting the same efforts into my final chapter of rehab. Whilst I know they wouldn’t agree, it’s the very least I owe my surgeon and my physios. Once again, so much time and effort has been put into me and I couldn’t not repay that the only way I truly can. Even then, that probably won’t ever be enough for everything they have done for me. 🍀🌟❤️

#mybumpbirthandbeyond #diastasisrecti #postpartumrecovery #postpartumbody #pelvichealthphysio #pelvichealth #postpartum #plasticsurgery #abdominoplasty #postop

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drarohitasgaonkar · 6 months

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Can I resume sexual activity after delivery, and are there any precautions I should take?

Resuming sexual activity after childbirth is a personal decision, and the timing can vary from one individual to another. It's important to consult with your healthcare provider for specific guidance, especially if you've had a complicated delivery or cesarean section. Here are some general considerations and precautions to keep in mind:

1-Healing Time: Your body needs time to heal after childbirth. Most healthcare providers recommend waiting at least 4-6 weeks before resuming sexual activity, particularly if you had a vaginal delivery. For those who had a cesarean section, the healing process may take a bit longer.

2-Comfort and Lubrication: It's essential that you feel physically and emotionally ready. Ensure that you are comfortable and not experiencing pain. If you're breastfeeding, hormonal changes can affect vaginal lubrication, so using a water-based lubricant may be helpful.

3-Contraception: Discuss contraception with your healthcare provider to prevent another pregnancy until you're ready. Some birth control methods may be more suitable for breastfeeding mothers.

4-Positioning: Experiment with different sexual positions to find those that are comfortable and avoid putting too much pressure on the perineal area if it's still sensitive.

5-Communication: Open communication with your partner is vital. Discuss your feelings, concerns, and any discomfort or pain you may experience. Take things at a pace that both you and your partner are comfortable with.

6-Pelvic Floor Exercises: Performing pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) can help restore muscle tone and improve sexual function.

7-Infections: Be aware of the risk of postpartum infections, especially if you've had stitches or incisions. Practice good hygiene and monitor for any signs of infection.

8-Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding can affect hormone levels, which may lead to decreased libido in some individuals. Be patient and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

9-Emotional Well-Being: Your emotional well-being is crucial. Adjusting to life with a new baby can be challenging, and postpartum mood changes are common. Seek support and consider professional help if you experience postpartum depression or anxiety.

10-Pelvic Exam: If you had a particularly complicated delivery or any concerns about your postpartum recovery, consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend a pelvic exam to ensure that you are healing properly.

Remember that there is no fixed timeline for resuming sexual activity, and it varies for each individual. It's important to prioritize your physical and emotional well-being and engage in open communication with your partner.

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samhithaayurveda · 7 months

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growyourbusinesses · 7 months

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roshni99 · 8 months

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Health Benefits of Ajwain Water #weightloss #digestion #ajwain #immunitybooster

🌿 Discover the Power of Ajwain Water! 🌿 Welcome to our channel! Today, unlock the incredible benefits of ajwain water, a natural remedy trusted for generations. 🔸 Digestive Aid: Say goodbye to indigestion and bloating. Ajwain water soothes your gut, promoting comfort. 🔸 Beat Gas & Bloating: Tired of discomfort? Ajwain water naturally eases gas and bloating for relief. 🔸 Weight Loss Support: Boost metabolism with ajwain water for effective calorie burning on your weight loss journey. 🔸 Breathe Easy: Fight congestion, coughs, and sore throats with ajwain water's antibacterial power. 🔸 New Moms Rejoice: Postpartum recovery made easier. Ajwain water aids digestion, reduces inflammation, and supports lactation. 🔸 Fight Inflammation: Manage inflammation naturally with ajwain water's anti-inflammatory properties. 🔸 Strengthen Immunity: Combat oxidative stress with antioxidant-rich ajwain water for a resilient body. Try this natural elixir by following our simple guide in the video. Remember, consult a healthcare professional before dietary changes. Enjoyed this? Give a thumbs up, subscribe, and stay tuned for more on natural remedies. Be healthy, be happy! Explore the benefits of Ajwain Water and its amazing properties! 🌿 Boost your well-being with natural remedies. Discover more at https://www.raphacure.com/pharmacy-de... #AjwainWaterBenefits #NaturalRemedy #HealthyGut #DigestiveWellness #GasRelief #BloatingSolution #MetabolismBoost #WeightLossJourney #RespiratoryHealth #SoreThroatRelief #PostpartumRecovery #InflammationManagement #ImmuneSupport #AntioxidantPower #HolisticHealth #WellnessTips #NutritionHacks #NaturalHealing #SelfCareJourney #HealthyHabits #GutHealthMatters #HealthAndWellness #LifestyleChoices #BalancedLiving #EmpowerYourHealth #mindfuleating #StayFitStayHealthy #WellnessWarrior #nourishyourbody ajwain water benefits in telugu ajwain water ajwain water for weight loss ajwain water recipe for weight loss ajwain water for gas problem ajwain water after delivery ajwain water for babies ajwain water after c section delivery ajwain water recipe ajwain water during pregnancy ajwain water for uric acid ajwain water for cold and cough ajwain water for breastfeeding mom ajwain water for constipation ajwain water during periods ajwain water benefits in kannada ajwain water benefits in tamil ajwain water before bed ajwain water benefits for weight loss ajwain water benefits for babies ajwain water benefits malayalam ajwain water benefits ajwain water benefits in hindi ajwain water benefits for skin ajwain water benefits in night ajwain water benefits in postpartum ajwain water benefits for hair ajwain water before sleep #HolisticLiving ajwain,health benefits of ajwain,netmeds,netmeds videos,health benefits of carom seeds,reasons to eat ajwain,ajwain benefits,why to eat ajwain,carom seeds,carom seeds benefits,oma water,ajwain water,oma water recipe,ajwain water recipe,ajwain benefits for skin,healthy recipes,dine out,food,nutrition information,nutrients,cooking,foodie,being foodie,hungry,cuisine,health food,weight loss,life style,healthy eating habits,low calorie

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diseaseinfohub · 10 months

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What is a Sitz Bath Postpartum

A sitz bath postpartum is a soothing and therapeutic technique that offers relief to new mothers after giving birth. It involves sitting in warm water to alleviate discomfort, promote healing, and reduce swelling in the perineal area. Here's some insightful information about sitz baths postpartum:

How to prepare a sitz bath:

Fill a clean basin or specialized sitz bath tub with warm water. Make sure the water is not too hot to avoid scalding.

Optionally, you can add ingredients like Epsom salt, witch hazel, or herbal infusions known for their soothing properties. These additions can enhance the healing benefits of the sitz bath.

Stir the water gently to dissolve any added ingredients.

The benefits of sitz baths postpartum:

Relieves pain and discomfort: The warm water helps to soothe sore muscles, reduce pain, and provide relief from episiotomy stitches or tearing.

Promotes healing: Sitz baths increase blood flow to the perineal area, facilitating the healing process of any postpartum wounds or tears.

Reduces swelling: Immersion in warm water can help decrease swelling and inflammation in the perineum and surrounding tissues.

Prevents infection: Adding natural antiseptic ingredients like witch hazel to the sitz bath can help prevent infection and promote cleanliness.

How to take a sitz bath:

Carefully lower yourself into the warm water, ensuring the perineal area is submerged.

Relax and sit in the bath for about 15-20 minutes.

Gently pat the perineal area dry with a soft towel after the bath. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as it may cause further irritation.

When to take a sitz bath:

Postpartum recovery: Sitz baths are particularly beneficial during the initial weeks after childbirth when discomfort and swelling are most prominent.

Hemorrhoids: Sitz baths can also be useful for individuals experiencing hemorrhoids, providing relief from pain, itching, and inflammation.

Precautions to consider:

Consult your healthcare provider: It's always important to consult your healthcare provider before starting any postpartum care routine, including sitz baths.

Hygiene and cleanliness: Ensure the bathwater and the basin or tub used are clean and sanitary to prevent any risk of infection.

Avoid soap and harsh chemicals: Soap and other harsh chemicals can irritate the sensitive perineal area, so it's best to avoid using them during sitz baths.

#SitzBathPostpartum #PostpartumRecovery #NewMomTips #PerinealCare #NaturalRemedies #SelfCareAfterBirth #PainRelief

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disability-maternity-care · 10 months

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New Moms with Disabilities: Self-Care Secrets for Post-Caesarean Recovery

The first few months after giving birth are demanding for all moms, but when you have a disability, it can be overwhelming. Learn valuable self-care tips and how taking time for yourself can positively impact both you and your baby. Share this essential guide with fellow moms who deserve to prioritise their well-being.

#SelfCare #PostpartumRecovery #MomsWithDisabilities

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beautikinieeboy · 11 months

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Is it Common to Experience Spotting While Breastfeeding?

Is it Common to Experience Spotting

While Breastfeeding?

Is Spotting Common During Breastfeeding?

The timing of a woman's first period after giving birth can vary. Some women may experience their first period as early as 6 weeks postpartum, while others may not have a period until they stop breastfeeding. The hormone prolactin plays a role in preventing menstruation and supporting milk production. Following a strict breastfeeding regimen, including exclusive breastfeeding without supplementing with formula or bottle feeding, can help delay the return of menstruation. However, even with these measures, it is still possible to experience spotting, which is an indication that your period may be imminent.

What Causes Spotting After Pregnancy?

After giving birth, a woman's body undergoes significant hormonal and physical changes. It is common for women to experience bleeding for up to six weeks postpartum. During this time, the uterus contracts and sheds the lining, known as Lochia, which consists of blood, placenta tissues, uterine lining, and mucus. The color and consistency of the blood may vary throughout this period. Postpartum bleeding is a normal part of the recovery process, and there are ways to manage it, such as using heating pads and wearing period underwear to make it more comfortable.

How Long Does Spotting Last While Breastfeeding?

During the breastfeeding journey, women may experience fluctuations in their milk supply, including during different phases of their menstrual cycle. It is common for milk supply to decrease after ovulation and during the menstrual period due to hormonal changes. When an egg is not fertilized, hormone levels drop, including the hormone prolactin, which can affect milk production. This is a normal occurrence, and typically, milk supply improves towards the end of the menstrual period.

How to Increase Milk Supply During Your Period

Breastfeed frequently: Nursing your baby as often as possible helps stimulate milk production and the release of prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production.

Power pumping: Try power pumping, which involves pumping for short periods of time with short breaks in between to mimic cluster feeding and stimulate milk supply.

Stay hydrated: It's important to stay well-hydrated during breastfeeding, especially during your period when dehydration can be more common. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Avoid supplementing with formula: To maintain milk supply, it's best to avoid supplementing with formula and focus on exclusive breastfeeding.

Switch breasts and consider pumping: Make sure to switch between breasts during feedings and consider pumping the opposite breast if your baby falls asleep or finishes feeding quickly. This helps ensure both breasts are adequately stimulated.

Remember, each woman's body is unique, and milk supply may vary. If you have concerns about your milk supply during your period, consult with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider for personalized guidance and support.

Can Spotting Affect Milk Supply?

During the menstrual cycle, it is not uncommon for some women to experience a temporary decrease in milk supply. This is because spotting or the hormonal changes associated with menstruation can lead to a drop in the hormone prolactin, which is responsible for milk production. The decrease in prolactin levels can temporarily affect milk supply. However, this drop in milk supply is usually temporary and harmless to both the baby and the mother. Once spotting or the period ends, milk supply typically returns to normal. It's important to note that some babies may breastfeed more frequently during this time to compensate for the lower milk supply.

Does Spotting Affect Milk Supply While Breastfeeding?

Spotting while breastfeeding is a common occurrence and can sometimes lead to concerns about its impact on milk supply. Here are some tips to address this issue and maintain a healthy breastfeeding relationship:

Continue breastfeeding: It's important not to stop breastfeeding when spotting occurs, even if there is a temporary decrease in milk supply. Consistently breastfeeding will signal your body to continue milk production, and once the spotting stops, your milk supply should increase again.

Address nipple tenderness: During your period, nipple tenderness may occur, making breastfeeding uncomfortable. Avoid using numbing creams, as they can affect the baby's mouth. Instead, consider pumping and bottle feeding temporarily if necessary. The discomfort should subside within a few days, and you can resume direct breastfeeding.

Use a heating pad: To alleviate cramps associated with your period, opt for a heating pad instead of over-the-counter medications, which may pass through breast milk. Placing a heating pad on your abdomen can provide relief without impacting your milk supply.

Consider period underwear: Spotting or light bleeding can be managed with the use of period underwear. These specially designed underwear provide various levels of absorbency, offering convenience and comfort during your daily activities. They eliminate the need for frequent pad or tampon changes and can be worn throughout the day.

Remember, after childbirth, your body goes through numerous changes, and breastfeeding is a special bonding experience with your baby. While spotting during breastfeeding is normal, it should only last for a few days. Stay committed to breastfeeding, seek comfort measures, and trust that your milk supply will return to normal once the spotting subsides.

#health #healthcare #women #SpottingWhileBreastfeeding #BreastfeedingIssues #PostpartumBleeding #BreastfeedingJourney #BreastfeedingTips #MilkSupply #PostpartumRecovery #BreastfeedingSupport #PostpartumChanges #BreastfeedingExperience #mother

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relacto · 1 year

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Thinking of signing up for a lactation food service but unsure of what are the benefits? We’ll walk you through it all here and find out food that boost breast milk!

New mothers know that breastfeeding is the most natural and healthy way to nourish their babies. But did you know that certain foods can actually help boost your milk production during lactation?

#lactationfoods #lactationfoodsformothers #lactationfoodstoincreasebreastfeeding #postpartumrecovery

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empowasg · 1 year

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THE PROBLEM: (and it’s a big problem!) “Southeast Asia has the second highest prevalence rate of depression in postpartum women in a study released in 2021” THE SOLUTION: According to the Healthcare System the systematic solution is to allocate every patient ONE (1) POSTNATAL APPOINTMENT with their OB/GYN in which your Dr will make a brief assessment of your mental health, along with your physical recovery from childbirth JUST ONE APPOINTMENT???!!! Does that sound logical? At a time in a birthing parents life when their body and hormones have undergone and unprecedented level of change they are scheduled for ONE, JUST ONE, check up That is why it is so important to normalise postpartum support and to ensure that birthing parents surround themselves with the correct, trained and certified support people Your first line of defence should be someone that can act as your Life Guard .. someone who’s job it is to spot the danger and then pull or push you to safety That’s my new analogy for a POSTPARTUM DOULA and I think it works so well We are trained to spot the danger, flag it and then pull or push you in the direction that is right for you to recover and be the absolutely incredible parent you were born to be! #postpartumdepression #postpartumanxiety #ppd #postnataldepression #obgyn #pregnancysg #postnatal #postpartumrecovery #postpartumcare #postpartumsup #postpartumcheckup #edinburghscale #sgmums #firsttimemums #newmum #sgmummies #sgparents #healthcareproviders #empowasg #postpartumdoula #postpartumcon sultant #certifieddoula #prodoula #donainternational Wang, Z., Liu, J., Shuai, H. et al. Mapping global prevalence of depression among postpartum women. Transl Psychiatry 11, 543 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-021-01663-6 (at Singapore / Singapura / 新加坡 / சிங்கப்பூர்) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cplo0VFSnya/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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mybumpbirthandbeyond · 1 month

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Fuerza

I used to write a blog a lot more frequently. In the thick of things, when I was struggling, writing it down always allowed me to reach the feelings I was trying so hard to bury. It’s been 3 months since I wrote my last blog, but I have a funny feeling that it might be a lot longer after this until the next - if at all.

As a mother, you become a master at putting your feelings aside. Everything is focused on your children. In some ways, I’m even worse than that - I literally put everyone possible above me and before me. Even the dog 😂

In this journey, I’ve often set aside my own feelings when women message me. No matter how I’m feeling, or if I’m in a hard place at that point, I always respond and give an answer to their questions (with the exception of very few where I’ve drawn a hard line). I don’t know whether I’m just used to doing that, but I suspect it’s to do with the responsibility I feel to others. Each member of my team both independently and collectively, have told me I owe nothing to anyone. Well I feel the opposite. I’ll not even start on what I owe them, but to the many women who have reached out over the years, I have been in their position, I know how they feel and that is something that unfortunately, unless someone has been through it, is impossible to find. For all the respect, love and highest regard I have for pelvic physios, unless they have experienced this personally, their understanding can only go so far. I wanted and continue to want, to help women in a way I never experienced. Yes there were others who had shared their journey, but they were years down the line. They weren’t at the stage I was when I suffered the most.

The messages I used to get were from women who had just found out about their diastasis. Now, the messages from women who are close to, or have just had surgery (I literally had a message from someone who had surgery just a few hours earlier!) Each one takes me back every time to when I was at that point. Hard to believe it was a year ago in one way, and in another, it’s like a lifetime has passed.

I’ve been taking some weird trips down memory lane recently. After the passing of one of my mentors at the start of my legal career and bumping into my original bosses, I then drove past my community midwife who was responsible for looking after me in both my pregnancies. It hit me how much had happened since I first met her, and since I last saw her. I had flashbacks of all our interactions. Then I drove past the hospital where I was seen on a fortnightly basis for physio at the beginning. It was all a bit much to be honest.

My midwife’s comments will be relatively well known to those who have been following for a while. My bump was ‘weird,’ she could ‘measure me big or small, I just don’t know what’s going on.’ She was not the one who picked up on my separation though, rather it was her replacement while she was on holiday around 36 weeks pregnant in my first pregnancy. When it came to my second pregnancy, she was convinced I would need a C-section and would have to go Consultant led. Thanks to my rockstar physios, I pushed back and well…we all know how that went. I almost gave birth in the car park and the pushing stage lasted 13 minutes. No painkillers - not even paracetamol and I wasn’t even admitted properly on the system by the time I gave birth to my daughter. If there was anyone who was going to prove so-called experts wrong, I guess it was always going to me (and Emily 😅).

In the days that followed, when my midwife came to visit, she brought a student. I kind of felt like a lab rat in some ways. She wanted her student to feel how large and deep my diastasis was because she’d never seen anything like it. Of the 100s of pairs of hands that felt my diastasis, I felt like that patient in Grey’s Anatomy with something really extraordinary and weird but it’s a teaching hospital so let the interns see it. I have no issues with students learning - I’m the biggest advocate for learning. I want to learn everything possible and always want to know why - in many ways, my brain probably operates a lot like my teams’. I am THAT patient. I want to see; I want to know why; I want to know as much as possible. And I’m going think more and have more questions. And when there isn’t an answer, I’m going to be a bit frustrated by that.

I would say over the course of this, I’d be surprised if I didn’t see at least 5 students and then on top of that, any courses I attended as the case study means we’re probably into double figures. But that’s the difference with those who know about diastasis- I wasn’t the lab rat. I wasn’t that patient with something weird (I was, but I was never made to feel like that). Sadly, no matter how well intentioned my midwife, I felt like I was the only person in the world who was that bad. I was the wrong type of unicorn.

My husband always joked I’m a unicorn. He meant it in a good way - according to him (and he’s clearly more than a bit biased) there was no one who wanted to learn and understand the way I did; there was no one who carried on the same way regardless of how hard it got; there was no one that worked so hard regardless of how the outcome wouldn’t change; there was no one who had shared through two pregnancies, two postpartums, pre-op and post-op. I never saw it like that. I was just doing what I felt I had to to make sure I never had any regrets when all was said and done.

My final consult was actually a month and a bit after 1 year post-op, and it still felt like the time came too fast. Ever since I had my surgery everything has happened too fast. The year leading up to surgery was the longest, slowest and hardest of all, and this one has been the fastest, shortest year, but also still pretty damn hard. I looked forward to and dreaded that appointment at the same time. I was dreading the worst hangover post-consult. I’ve mentioned before I get consult hangovers. Overwhelmed; hollow; empty; and low. The high has passed and all your left with is the memories - and even then they become pretty hazy. The build-up does not help. All my consults - physio and surgical - are booked months in advance so you have time to build up to them (and look forward to them in my case), and then before you know it they’re done in what feels like minutes, and that’s it until the next. Except there isn’t a ‘next’ this time.

I kicked myself coming out my appointment. I couldn’t get out of my own way. The part of me that tries to remain stoic and professional to the end. I didn’t say what I wanted to say at the time and it didn’t hit me until I left. Then the facade came down and the tears came. I spent the rest of that day tearing up or full blown crying at certain points when people couldn’t see me. At the airport and on the plane, I closed my eyes so no one would know and just kept wiping them away. By that point I was in a bit of pain from the procedure and wished I could take something that would knock me out completely to numb both pains.

If I’m honest, I felt it blindsided me. One minute I was getting a procedure done; the next I’m picking up my coat. I always knew it was going to happen that way, and there was absolutely nothing I could do to stop it. I just wish in the moment I had had more awareness and taken the opportunity when I had it. I had tried to do it in previous consults knowing full well I would be an absolute mess (even if it was just internally) on the day, but I’m still annoyed at myself. It’s like I was trying to pretend it wasn’t happening.

Flying to Dublin to following week felt more than a bit cruel. There was no possible way I could have known that the two visits would end up being just a week apart, and although it was for a weekend break, I almost regretted it. I was in a different part of Dublin, but that didn’t matter. It was impossible not to think of everything that had happened just one week before. My head was all over the place and still is. I wish I could I could turn my brain off. It’s been my life for 5 years so you would think I would be sick of it consuming me, but I think about it all the time and I can’t help it. Even more so the surgery. It’s all I thought about in the lead up, and now it’s all I think about in the denouement.

In my last physio consult, I spoke about dreading the end. I struggled to articulate the reasons why, but I eventually found the words to describe it. Loss. It feels like I’m heading for a loss and my last surgery consult only confirmed that. It felt exactly like a loss. I’ve mentioned before it’s like I’m grieving. I was grieving the postpartum body I never got to have; the postpartum life I never got to have. Now I’m grieving the loss of the consults and my team. You would think I’d be celebrating, but it just isn’t like that for me.

I have my final physio consult in a couple of weeks. To say I’m dreading it is an understatement. My physios responded in my last consult it hopefully won’t feel as bad as I’m anticipating. They don’t see it as ‘see you later, have a nice life.’ They plan to keep in contact. My last one is to be called ‘last’ loosely. Although, they feel it needs an official end to give me some sort of closure. I hate to break it to them, but I’m not sure I’m ever going to have closure. I think I tried to find that last year when I felt completely lost. Despite making the decision to stop counselling because I felt it had taken me as far as it was going to take me, I didn’t reach closure. I’m not at peace with everything. The ending feels like it’s just putting me back to where I landed last year after surgery - lost in a storm of memories, feelings and completely bereft of what happens next.

That’s partly the reason I got my tattoo. It wasn’t the first time I thought of it - anyone that knows me, knows that I put ALOT of thought into any major decision. But once that decision is made, there is no changing my mind. I wanted something other than my scar to remind me of everything I had been through. A physical change to my body that I got to choose - not something that was the only option, not something I had no control over, but something that was very much in my control. ‘Grit’ doesn’t have a great translation, but ‘fuerza’ is pretty apt no matter the translation - ‘force,’ ‘strength.’ I like to think I’ve represented both at points throughout my journey. Both physically and mentally.

5 years. 5 years since this all started. I dreaded the end early on because I knew what I stood to lose. I knew how important my team were becoming to me even back then. It’s maybe my own fault. There was no ‘arm’s length’. We have a lot in common. We’re like minded. All I wanted was to make them proud and do everything possible to not let them down (and me I guess). I was putting them before me just like I did in that sentence. But that’s just an indication of how much they meant and mean to me and I wouldn’t have gotten to this point without them. I would have been, and still would be, gutted to be held at arm’s length. Too much has happened and nothing has really been normal about this whole journey…I’m that weird patient after all 😅

So what happens next? I have absolutely no idea. It’s pretty frightening. There are no milestones left to work towards. There are no points in time I have to get to. The book is closing and I kind of want to go back a few chapters. Thankfully, I don’t want to re-write anything and I have no regrets overall, but it would be nice to go back and slow everything down until I’m ready. Although, I’m not convinced I ever will be…

Maybe my team will forget me over time as one of hundreds of patients for each of them, but I’m going to be an old lady telling my grandchildren about my very own superheroes I assembled that changed my life forever; how they put my broken pieces back together; and how lucky I was to have them, even for a short time❤️

#mybumpbirthandbeyond #diastasisrecti #postpartumrecovery #pelvichealthphysio #postpartumbody #pelvichealth #postpartum #abdominoplasty #plasticsurgery #postop #1yearpostop

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