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Barwon Health / Maternity Services

(03) 4215 2060

Your post-natal health

It is important to learn as a new mother that you must take care of yourself so that you can take care of your family.

The most common health problems reported by women six months after giving birth are;

  • 69% exhaustion
  • 44% back pain
  • 21% haemorrhoids
  • 21% perineal pain
  • 17% depression
  • 17% mastitis
  • 13% bowel problems
  • 11% urinary incontinence

Signs to take seriously and seek emergency medical help

  • Sudden and profuse bleeding or persistent increased blood loss
  • Significant faintness, dizziness, palpitations or a rapid pulse
  • Fever, chills, abdominal pain and or smelly vaginal loss
  • Headaches accompanied by one or more of the following symptoms within the first seven days after birth
  • Visual disturbances
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Calf pain, redness or swelling – usually in one leg.
  • Shortness of breath or chest pain
  • Feelings of self harm

Common health problems explained

 

Last Modified: Thursday, 08 April 2021