Understanding the Uterus and Its Importance in Pregnancy
The uterus is a vital organ for women, playing a crucial role in pregnancy and childbirth. Taking good care of the uterus is essential for the health of both mother and baby, from pregnancy through the postpartum period. This helps reduce the risk of complications and promotes faster recovery. During pregnancy, the uterus gradually expands to accommodate the growing baby and will shrink back after delivery, typically returning to normal within 4-6 weeks postpartum. New mothers should therefore prioritize uterine health during this recovery period.
Uterine Care During Pregnancy
- Consume Nutritious Foods Good nutrition helps strengthen the uterus and prepare it for pregnancy. Recommended foods include:
- Protein from meat, eggs, legumes, and dairy products
- Calcium from milk, yogurt, and tofu
- Iron from liver, red meat, and leafy greens to prevent anemia
- Folate from leafy greens and fruits to prevent fetal abnormalities
- Drink sufficient water Staying hydrated improves blood circulation and reduces the risk of constipation and urinary tract infections, which can affect the uterus.
- Avoid harmful substances
- Avoid large amounts of caffeine
- Abstain from alcohol and smoking
- Avoid chemicals and medications that may be harmful to the fetus
- Engage in light exercise Appropriate exercises such as prenatal yoga, swimming, or gentle walking help strengthen uterine muscles and reduce the risk of complications during delivery.
- Regular Health Check-ups Visit your doctor as scheduled to monitor the health of your uterus and the fetus. If you experience abnormal symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, unusual vaginal discharge, or bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.
Uterine Care After Childbirth
After delivery, the uterus undergoes significant changes. Care for its safe return to normal condition with these methods:
- Postpartum heat therapy or steam bath Traditional heat therapy helps the uterus contract and return to its normal state more quickly, reduces chills, and aids in body recovery. However, this should be done safely and appropriately.
- Breastfeeding helps the uterus contract faster The hormone oxytocin released during breastfeeding helps the uterus contract and return to its normal size more quickly.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects After childbirth, the uterus is still weak. Lifting heavy objects may cause uterine prolapse. Allow your body to recover properly first.
- Consume uterus-nourishing foods Foods that help restore the uterus include ginger, black pepper, and blood-nourishing herbs. Consume foods high in iron to prevent anemia.
- Maintain strict hygiene
- Change sanitary pads every 3-4 hours to reduce the risk of infection
- Keep the genital area clean
- If you experience abnormal symptoms such as foul-smelling discharge, severe abdominal pain, or abnormal bleeding, see a doctor immediately.
- Get adequate rest Rest helps the body recover faster and helps hormones return to balance.
Caring for the uterus during pregnancy and after childbirth is important for uterine health and reduces the risk of complications, contributing to long-term health for both mother and child.
If you have postpartum health concerns, you can consult with Dr. Aomthong Clinic. We offer annual gynecological health check-up programs and comprehensive programs for new mothers, including treatments for sagging breasts, internal health restoration, lifting and tightening, enhancing sensation and mood, restoring hair loss during breastfeeding, treating dry skin, dark spots, melasma and freckles after childbirth, boosting immunity with various vitamin formulas, and improving stretch marks.
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