The journey to motherhood is truly a life-changing experience for every woman. From the first day of pregnancy to the moment you will finally hear your baby's first cry, it is indeed an extraordinary moment. But motherhood does not end with that. It is merely the first step. And one of the most crucial stages of being a mother is postnatal and postpartum care.

Postnatal care is the specialised service or care that should be given to mothers and newborn months after childbirth. The postnatal period is one of the most crucial stages of motherhood. According to the World Health Organization, many infant deaths happen during this phase. Some mothers suffer from postpartum conditions and problems during this period as well.

It is why mothers should pay attention to their postnatal care in Singapore.

The Importance of Postnatal Care for Mothers and Their Babies

1. It gives mothers early detection and protection from pregnancy and child delivery complications

A woman's body becomes more compromised during pregnancy and after childbirth. Childbirth opens a leeway to many health complications, including infection, bleeding, miscarriage, preeclampsia and many more. These conditions can endanger the mother and even the infant's life.

Postnatal care in Singapore helps monitor the overall health of the mother and the newborn. Postnatal care usually lasts two months after childbirth.

Regular monitoring of the mother's health with the postnatal care provider in Singapore reduces the risks of these postpartum problems. It also gives way to early detection and prevention of these conditions.

2. It assists mothers in infant care

Postnatal care in Singapore also assists first-time mothers with infant care. Infants are at their most vulnerable stage during the postnatal phase.

Postnatal care providers give advice, tips and recommendations to the parents on infant care. Postnatal providers teach mothers the importance of breastfeeding and other vital information regarding the infant's health.

3. It provides emotional and mental health support for mothers

Many first-time mothers experience emotional and mental stress weeks after childbirth. Even after pregnancy, the woman's body still undergoes hormonal changes. Hormonal changes contribute to the mood, emotional and mental state of a woman.

Besides that, infant care also takes a lot of work. Despite being prepared for this phase, some mothers get overwhelmed by these tasks.

Postnatal care providers in Singapore give mothers debriefing sessions and other ways of mental and emotional support.

4. It provides infant health screening

Newborn babies have fragile and vulnerable health conditions. Many health sectors and institutions recommend parents have their newborn undergo several health screenings. Health screening is necessary for early detection of congenital problems, prevention and cure.

Postnatal care providers in Singapore offer services like vaccination, hearing tests and full examination of the baby.

The Most Common Postpartum Conditions and Complications

Mothers experience mental and physical complications after childbirth. Postnatal care in Singapore helps in preventing and eliminating these problems.

1. Diastasis Recti

Also known as post partum belly and mummy tummy, diastasis recti is the separation of the abdominal muscle due to pregnancy. Although it is normal for new mothers to experience post partum belly, it still should not be neglected. Post partum belly can lead to back pain.

Light core exercises can narrow the gap and strengthen the abdominal muscles.

2. C-Section Pain

For mothers who had a caesarean section may experience occasional tingling pain in the wound. Taking medication regularly, staying hydrated and avoiding vigorous activities speed up the healing.

3. Postpartum Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is caused by sore and weak pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic floor exercises can help activate and regain the strength of the pelvic floor muscles. There are postnatal care providers in Singapore that offer assistance for these exercises.

4. Clogged Milk Ducts

Many women experience painful and swollen breasts days after childbirth due to milk production. Women also experience clogged milk ducts. Breast massage, regular breastfeeding and breathable bras can reduce pain and swelling.

5. Postpartum Depression

Mothers may experience signs of depression after childbirth due to the hormonal changes in the body. A healthy diet, exercise, and the right amount of rest reduce the anxiousness and stress level of the mother. Family and friends' emotional support is also a great help. Postnatal care providers in Singapore can help with postpartum depression, as well.

Takeaway

Motherhood is a tough journey, and postnatal care is only the first step to it. Parents should never ignore this phase of motherhood. It plays an important role in the first days of your newborn and to their mothers.

Having proper postnatal care ensures the health of the mother and the baby. Never compromised and give the special care mothers and babies deserve.

Orchard Clinic

Orchard Clinic wants every mother to have smooth-sailing motherhood by providing comprehensive prenatal care in Singapore. Orchard Clinic is committed to bringing world-class women's health services to the country. Book an appointment with Orchard Clinic today.