What Is the Postpartum Period?
The postpartum period is the time after birth in which a new mother’s body recovers from the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy and childbirth.
How Long Does the Postpartum Period Last?
It typically lasts six to eight weeks, starting immediately after birth. During this time, your body heals and slowly returns to its pre-pregnancy state. However, the exact duration can vary depending on individual factors.
Do You Have to Stay in Bed During the Postpartum Period?
No, you don’t need to stay in bed the entire time. What’s important is getting enough rest and listening to your body. Rest and recovery are essential, but gentle movement to stimulate circulation is also recommended.
What Happens If You Don’t Follow Postpartum Guidelines?
If you push yourself too hard without allowing your body to rest, you risk complications such as delayed healing, infections, or issues with milk production.
What Is Lochia (Postpartum Bleeding)?
Lochia is the vaginal bleeding that naturally occurs after birth. It consists of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue and is part of the healing process. Pay attention to the color and flow, as changes may signal the need for medical attention.
What Does the Midwife Do During Postpartum Care?
Your midwife supports you throughout the postpartum period, ensuring both you and your baby are doing well. She answers questions about newborn care, helps with breastfeeding, and monitors your recovery — including your uterus shrinking back, your bleeding, and your emotional wellbeing. Her visits are covered by health insurance.
How Long Does Postpartum Care Last?
Every mother with statutory health insurance in Germany is entitled to midwife support for up to 12 weeks after birth — and longer if breastfeeding. In the first days after delivery, the midwife visits daily, later at longer intervals.
Why Can’t You Use Tampons During the Postpartum Period?
Tampons increase the risk of infection, as your uterus and vaginal area are still healing and especially vulnerable. To prevent bacteria from entering the uterus, it’s safer to use pads.
Can You Have Sex During the Postpartum Period?
Sex after birth is highly personal and depends on when you feel ready. Stitches from a tear or C-section need time to heal, and hormonal changes can affect desire. Be open with your partner and take all the time you need.
Can You Exercise During the Postpartum Period?
In the first weeks after birth, avoid strenuous activity. Gentle walks are fine and can even help recovery. If you want to restart exercise early, consult your midwife about the safest type and intensity.
When Should You Begin Pelvic Floor Recovery?
Your midwife may show you light exercises early on, and a full pelvic floor recovery course usually begins 6–8 weeks after birth. These classes are covered by health insurance.
What Household Tasks Should You Avoid?
Rest and recovery should come first. Leave vacuuming, mopping, and making beds to your partner or family. Avoid lifting heavy objects like shopping bags or laundry baskets during the first weeks.
Midwife Tip: In certain situations, you may be entitled to home help through your health insurance.
Postpartum Tips: Not Just for First-Time Moms
If this is your first baby, you might not know what to expect. Many imagine an easy birth followed by peaceful days cuddling a satisfied baby. The reality can be different: a more exhausting delivery, minor birth injuries, and a newborn who feeds constantly.
Here are some helpful tips:
- Reserve the first days/weeks just for your family. Visitors can wait.
- Let friends and family know you’ll reach out when you’re ready.
- Spend plenty of time cuddling your baby.
- Accept help with the household — it’s a strength, not a weakness.
- Surround yourself with people who make you feel good.
- Mood swings are normal. If low mood (baby blues) lasts longer than a week, tell your midwife — she can help.
- Give your body time to heal, especially from birth injuries.
- Be patient with yourself. Growing into your new role takes time.
Checklist for the Postpartum Period
- Pads (no tampons)
- Soft, large underwear (washable at 60°C) or disposable underwear
- Disposable washcloths
- Comfortable, loose clothing (washable at 60°C)
- Nursing tops with button fronts
- Nursing bras and breast pads
- Cabbage leaves or quark packs for cooling breasts
- Nipple cream
- Nursing pillow
- Mattress protector
- Birth prep or baby care classes
- Hospital bag: comfy clothes, baby clothes, documents
- List of emergency contacts
- Nursery set up
- Baby essentials: diapers, wipes, care products
- Wash all new baby clothes before use
- Organize support: childcare for siblings, help with pets
- Stock up on groceries or cook ahead for the first days home
- Organize parental leave
- Handle administrative tasks with authorities/insurance
- Practice diapering on a doll
- Learn how to use stroller and car seat
