New ACOG Guidelines Highlight Need for Ongoing, Comprehensive Postpartum Care

NEW HAVEN, Conn., July 26, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- According to new guidelines released by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a staggering forty percent of new mothers don't attend a single postpartum doctors visit. Mary Jane Minkin, MD, Clinical Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Yale University stresses the importance of postpartum consultations as well as a multi-faceted and thorough approach to treatment and care.

"It's vital for new mothers to understand how critical the postpartum period is to their present and future health. We must pay close attention to a new mom's mood/emotions, physical recovery, pelvic floor/vaginal health, nutrition and dietary needs if breastfeeding, as well as lifestyle and relationship adjustments," says Minkin.

Women should consider the following postpartum tips:

1. Don't skimp on your physicals. Your healthcare provider will monitor many things in the weeks and months following childbirth, including checking C-section incisions, the uterus to make sure it has contracted properly, and the perineum and vagina for any tears. Your provider will also monitor issues with breastfeeding. And if you had preeclampsia (elevated blood pressure) or diabetes during pregnancy, follow-ups will be needed until your blood pressure has normalized because you may be at a higher risk for cardiac health issues later.

2. Prepare to leak: It is normal to leak urine after a vaginal birth, especially when sneezing, coughing or laughing. While Kegel exercises can help, a stimulation device like ApexM can help strengthen your pelvic floor in the privacy of your home and alleviate urinary incontinence without a prescription.

3. Don't toss your prenatal vitamins! The nutrients in your prenatal vitamins are still essential in the postpartum stage, especially if you are breastfeeding. Talk with your doctor about a prescription prenatal vitamin like OB Complete with sufficient folate (1000 mcg) and the recommended amount of vitamin D and calcium.

4. Be honest if you are struggling mentally/emotionally. Embracing and adjusting to motherhood is not always easy. One in seven women will experience postpartum depression, and it is important to seek help from a licensed professional.

5. Take biotin for postpartum hair loss. Post-partum hair loss effects almost half of new mothers. Try a supplement with biotin like vitafusion Gorgeous Hair, Skin & Nails to help support the growth of strong, healthy hair.

6. It's normal to be dry down there. Vaginal dryness is a common postpartum condition and can be exacerbated by breastfeeding. Replens is a long-lasting vaginal moisturizer that helps to soothe dryness and rejuvenate vaginal tissue.

7. Warm up to intimacy. Returning to sex can be intimidating and painful. So, don't forget to use a good silicone lubricant like Replens Silky Smooth to ease penetration and reduce abrasion.

"Each woman's postpartum journey is unique, so discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider for the best solutions for you," adds Minkin.

SOURCE Mary Jane Minkin, MD