If you develop problems and your doctor has given you specific instructions to follow, be sure to follow those instructions.

Feeling tired (fatigue)

Most women feel tired after labor and delivery. Caring for a new baby, loss of sleep, and the normal physical changes you experience as your body returns to its nonpregnant condition can add to your fatigue.

To help with fatigue in the first few weeks and months after delivery:

• Eat regularly. Do not skip meals or go for long periods without eating. Choose healthy foods.
• Exercise regularly. Get outside, take walks, or keep your blood moving with your favorite workout. If you do not have your usual energy, do not overdo it.
• Try to take rest breaks often during the day.
• Do only as much as you need to, and do not take on extra activities or responsibilities.
• Spend time with family and friends and let them help you care for your baby.

Sleep problems

Sleep problems are common when you are caring for a new baby. These tips may help you get a good night's sleep.

• Sleep when your baby is sleeping or napping.
• Keep your naps as short as possible.
• Use your bed only for sleep.
• Try to have a regular feeding pattern if you are breast-feeding. If you are bottle-feeding, have others feed the baby sometimes so you can rest.
• Limit your caffeine, such as coffee, tea, cola drinks, and chocolate.
• Try relaxation methods. For more information, see the topic Stress Management.
• Limit what you drink after 6 p.m. so you do not have to get up to go to the bathroom during the night.

Nonprescription medicine to help relieve discomfort

Most women have some mild discomfort after delivery. You may have some cramping as your uterus returns to its nonpregnant size. If you had an episiotomy, you may have pain in your genital area. Women who have had a cesarean section (C-section) will have some pain at the incision site.

If you are breast-feeding, it is safe to use acetaminophen, such as Tylenol or Panadol, to help with mild discomfort.

• Acetaminophen dosage: The usual dose is 650 mg; recommended doses may range from 500 mg to 1,000 mg. You can take 650 mg every 4 hours or 1,000 mg every 6 hours in a 24-hour period. Do not take more than the maximum adult dose of 4,000 mg in a 24-hour period.
• Be sure to follow these nonprescription medicine precautions.
  • Use, but do not take more than the maximum recommended doses.
  • Carefully read and follow all labels on the medicine bottle and box.

Breast engorgement or mastitis

If you are breast-feeding, your breasts may be sore as they fill with milk. Place ice packs on your breasts for the pain and swelling. Be sure to put a cloth between your skin and the ice pack. Some women find a hot shower or warm towels on the breasts help the pain. You can also use acetaminophen, such as Tylenol or Panadol.