You did it, the baby is here! And while everyone’s busy cuddling your newborn, let’s take a moment to check in on you. Because your body and mind are still going through something big: postpartum recovery.
This recovery phase starts right after delivery and usually lasts about 6 to 8 weeks. During this time, your body slowly starts returning to its new, typical state. You’re healing physically, but also dealing with huge emotional and mental changes. You might feel sore, leaky, emotional, sleepy (or not sleepy at all), and kind of like a stranger in your own body. And that’s okay. It’s all part of the process.
These first few weeks are super important for both you and your baby’s long-term health, so it helps to know what to expect. In this blog, we’ll break down what usually happens, week by week, how you can care for yourself during each stage, and when you might need some extra TLC.
WEEK 1: Sore, Swollen, and Figuring It All Out
What physical changes can you expect in the first week postpartum?
Let’s start with the gory details – the post-birth vaginal bleeding, a.k.a. lochia. During pregnancy, your uterus grows and makes extra blood and tissue to support your baby. After the baby’s born, your body doesn’t need all that extra stuff anymore, so it starts clearing it out. This isn’t like your typical period; it’s heavier and lasts longer.
Post-birth bleeding starts out heavy and bright red, like a strong period, but turns pinkish-brown towards the end of the first week. The good news is that there are special maternity pads and panties made just to support lochia during postpartum recovery. You’re definitely going to need these, so stock up!
Another thing you might experience is abdominal cramping, especially during breastfeeding. These are called “after-pains,” and they’re due to your uterus contracting back to its typical size. They last about 2-3 days. They’re often strongest while breastfeeding; when the baby nurses on your nipple, your body releases a hormone called oxytocin, which helps your uterus shrink. It can feel uncomfortable, but it’s a positive sign that your body’s healing as it should.
Breastfeeding can also cause nipple pain and soreness. If your nipples don’t start feeling better by the end of the week, you may want to consult a lactation expert or look up trusted online resources. Pain is often a sign that your baby may not be latching correctly, and an improper latch can lead to more serious issues like cracked skin or even breast infections if left unaddressed.
It’s also normal in the first week to have some swelling in your feet and legs. In fact, a study shows that around 80% of women experience it during postpartum recovery. Sitting will be a little uncomfortable, too, especially if you have stitches from a tear or an episiotomy
What emotional changes can you expect in the first week postpartum?
Feeling teary, cranky or like nothing’s going right? Or maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed by the circle of life? You’re not alone. According to studies, as many as 76% of new moms feel this way during the first few weeks. It’s because hormones (like estrogen and progesterone) that increased during your pregnancy have dropped fast, after delivery, which can cause mood swings or weepiness. This experience is known as the “baby blues.”
You might also feel like your brain is all over the place. That’s not your imagination. Many new moms experience “mom brain.” It’s a foggy feeling that includes forgetfulness and slow thinking. In contrast, you may be hyper-focused on your baby. This is because the brains of women who have given birth literally rewire themselves to prioritise baby-related cues with selective hearing.
At the same time, one of your breastfeeding hormones (prolactin) is fluctuating, going up and down, which triggers anxiety. You’ll be checking if the baby’s breathing, worrying about feeding “correctly,” and Googling every tiny rash. You may even find yourself sleepwalking to check on your baby. It can take another couple of weeks for this to settle down.
WEEKS 2-4: Almost There, But Take It Slow
What happens to your body 2-4 weeks postpartum?
By now, things might feel a tiny bit more familiar, if not easier. During this time, your postpartum bleeding should start to slow down. It can come and go depending on how active you are. If you have stitches or C-section scars, they might feel itchy. It can be annoying, but it’s a good thing! Itchiness is a sign that your wound is healing properly. Just keep an eye out for any redness, swelling, and tenderness, which are signs of infection. If you see that, it’s time for a doctor’s visit.
Your breasts may still feel a bit tender, and your nipples can remain sore. It’s also common to leak breast milk when your baby cries or it’s time for a feed. Using all-natural nipple balms and absorbent breast pads can help make this more manageable.
You might also experience migraines or headaches during this time, often triggered by hormone fluctuations. They can be surprisingly intense, not as bad as childbirth, but still rough. So don’t ignore them if they hit. Rest, hydration, and checking in with your doctor can help manage the pain.
Even if you’re still feeling exhausted, you might feel ready to move around more. Still, take it slow. Walking is great, but skip workouts or sex unless your doctor gives you a thumbs-up. If your bleeding gets heavier after any activity, that’s your cue to rest.
What happens emotionally and mentally 2-4 weeks postpartum?
Emotionally, the feelings known as the ‘baby blues’ might still come and go. And that’s totally normal. But if that low mood doesn’t lift or feels heavier, it’s okay to ask for help. In fact, please do. Talk to a friend, a family member, your doctor, or a therapist. About 1 in 5 new mothers experiences postpartum depression or anxiety, both common and treatable, but they do need support to get better.
These feelings can happen for many reasons. One major factor is the sudden drop in certain hormones after birth, but your environment plays a role, too. Around this time, many new moms feel overwhelmed by pressure and conflicting advice. It can be confusing, frustrating, and lead to second-guessing yourself. If that’s happening, it’s okay to tune out the noise and trust your gut.
Relationship tensions can also sneak up on you now. You and your partner might feel exhausted, leading to miscommunication or hurt feelings. When this happens, it’s always good to check in with each other. A short, honest conversation can go a long way.
WEEK 5-6: Turning a Corner
What physical changes typically occur 5-6 weeks after giving birth?
By now, your postpartum bleeding has likely stopped, which can be a sign that your period may return soon. If you had a C-section, your scar is probably closed. It might still feel numb, itchy, or tingly, and that can continue for a few more months. It’s okay to touch it gently now. In fact, doing so can help restore sensation around the incision.
You can also drive and lift a little more weight. Many new moms also get the green light from their doctor for exercise and sex around week 6. BUT just because you can, doesn’t mean you have to. It’s completely okay if you don’t feel like you’re there yet. Many women require more time before they feel physically recovered and mentally calm enough for workouts and sex.
You might still feel a little disconnected from your body. Your clothes might not fit the same, and your skin may break out. You might also start to find hair falling out on pillows and in the shower. A study showed that over 90% of women experience postpartum hair shedding.
It tends to start around three months postpartum, and it can be disconcerting. It’s perfectly natural, though. Pregnancy pauses natural hair loss, so you retain hair during your pregnancy that you would typically shed as part of a healthy hair cycle. It should resolve within 6-12 months.
What emotional changes typically occur 5-6 weeks after giving birth?
Mentally, this is a time to check in with yourself. You may start noticing attachment patterns. Some moms feel deeply bonded through breastfeeding or skin-to-skin, while others struggle with it and feel guilty for not feeling “connected enough.” Both experiences are valid. Just remember, bonding can take up to 6 months or more. You’re growing into motherhood as much as your baby is growing into a child. So, don’t be too hard on yourself – you’re going through enough as it is.
The sleep deprivation from the last few weeks can really add up, too. It can impact mood regulation and decision-making. Even something simple like deciding what to eat can feel like climbing a mountain. On top of that, tracking feed times, remembering pediatric appointments, planning meals, and checking in on the baby constantly can make you feel burned out. Try to slow down and do your best to get enough rest every day. (Pro tip: Nap when your baby naps.)
Weeks 7-24: Still Healing, Still Learning
Between weeks 7 and 6 months, not much changes. This phase is all about adjusting and rebuilding. Your body continues to heal quietly in the background, even if things look “back to normal” on the outside. Energy may return in bursts, but fatigue still lingers.
Emotionally, you may swing between confidence and overwhelm. This is a time of figuring things out – your baby, your routines, your identity. And that takes time. Progress might feel slow, but every week brings more strength, clarity, and trust in yourself.
Months 6-12: Easing Into the New Normal
What body changes are common around 6-12 months after childbirth?
From six months onward, many new moms start to feel more like themselves physically. If you experienced hair fall earlier, it usually stops around this time. Your period might return (especially if you’ve reduced or stopped breastfeeding), though for some it can take longer. If you’ve had bladder control issues, that often improves by this time as well.
What emotional changes are common around 6-12 months after childbirth?
Mentally, things may begin to feel more stable. As your baby sleeps longer and routines settle in, you might feel more confident and emotionally balanced. But it can get hard when the long-term exhaustion, identity shifts, and isolation all coincide.
At this point, you may be returning to work if you were on maternity leave. Regardless, the pressure to ‘bounce back’ can creep in, whether it’s about your work, your body, your sex life, or your ability to function like your pre-baby self. But the truth is, you don’t have to ‘bounce back.’ You just have to move forward, at your own pace.
You’re Slowly Getting Back to You
Every postpartum journey is different, and there’s no perfect timeline. Some days you’ll feel strong, and other days you’ll just need rest and reassurance, and that’s completely okay. Be kind to your body, check in with your emotions, and ask for help when you need it.
You’re healing, you’re learning, and you’re doing your best. That’s more than enough.
If you have something to share from your postpartum journey, leave it in the comments and help out other mums!
