Postnatal

Postnatal refers to the period directly after childbirth. Things that may occur during the postnatal period include postnatal depression, breastfeeding, recovery from birth and the gradual return to pre-baby weight. There is also postnatal care, in which the new mother is supported in breastfeeding, changing the baby, creating a sleeping routine and bathing, for example. Alternative treatments that may be useful during the postnatal period include pelvic floor exercises, massage, yoga, acupuncture, relaxation therapies, stress management techniques, herbal medicine and a readily available support network.