Postpartum health for mothers

Postpartum means "after childbirth" and is often associated with health problems, such as postpartum depression. Postpartum problems can affect new mothers shortly after delivery in various ways. Here you can read about what happens "postpartum" and how you best take care of your body and well-being.

Body and weight after childbirth

More on Body and weight after childbirth

It is common to gain weight during pregnancy. Afterward, your body needs to recover from the heavy load that pregnancy entailed. Research shows that if you have not lost the weight you gained after one year, the risk of being overweight increases. Healthy eating and physical activity reduce the risks. In our guide, you get advice on good eating habits to feel good.

When will my menstrual cycle start again after delivery?

The timing of returned menstruation after pregnancy and delivery varies from person to person. Remember that ovulation happens before menstruation if you want to return to an active sex life and do not wish to become pregnant.

Running after childbirth: Taking it one step at a time and building up strength

Returning to running after pregnancy and childbirth requires time, patience, and an individual strategy. Each person is unique and has different circumstances. It is important to consider the changes in the body and take one step at a time to avoid injuries and promote a healthy recovery. Here, we share some important things to consider when resuming running after childbirth.

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Mental illness after childbirth

When it didn't quite turn out the way you thought it would…

Communication and participation are key during childbirth. Between you and your partner, between your care provider and you, and between your partner and your care provider. It can be easier said than done to communicate in the heat of the moment and at the epicenter of the pain.

Baby blues – temporary sadness after childbirth

After childbirth, it’s common for the mother to experience mood swings. Approximately 50-70% of all new mothers experience what is commonly referred to as the baby blues or maternity blues.

Postpartum depression

Anxiety and depression after childbirth are common. Approximately one in every ten women suffers from depression after pregnancy and after giving birth.

Postpartum blues, baby blues, maternity blues, or 3-day tears?

It is finally time to take that step into the baby bubble that everyone talks about... but why do I feel anxious, irritable, or sad? You may have heard of postpartum blues, baby blues, maternity blues, or 3-day tears - different names for the same thing.

Relationships and sex after childbirth

More on Relationships and sex after childbirth

Some get started with cohabitation quickly, but for many, it can take time and there are many other ways to have intimacy if you don't want to have sex right away. Don't stress and listen to each other.

Relationships during the years with a small baby - ten key things to remember

The first five years with toddlers are often tough - this is the reality for families with toddlers. It's a tough time for relationships and can sometimes lead to divorce or separation. Here are ten things to remember that will help you through the challenging years with a small baby so you emerge with your relationship intact.

Contraception containing hormones

There are hormonal contraceptive methods that contain either two hormones: estrogen and progestogen; or only one: progestogen. Contraception that uses hormones works by preventing ovulation and making the cervical mucus too difficult for the sperm to get through. Here you can read more about different contraceptives that use hormones.

Hormone-free contraception

A copper IUD is a hormone-free contraceptive that is inserted into the uterus. It creates an environment that prevents sperm from surviving and provides strong protection against pregnancy. Other contraceptives without hormones are condoms, pessaries, and femidom. They prevent sperm from entering the uterus and are called barrier methods. Read more here about other forms of hormone-free contraception.

Sex after birth - closeness, and togetherness

There are lots of reasons why sex might feel strange after giving birth. You might not have completely healed, your breasts might be leaking, you're exhausted and your baby might wake up at any time. But you're also longing for adult closeness. You need to find a shared balance and away to be close that feels good, while still taking into account your new situation.

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Recovery after childbirth

Post-birth contractions

The uterus will shrink back down to its normal size after delivery. The contractions are called postpartum pains, or simply afterpains, and are similar to period pain.

Bleeding and discharge after giving birth

After giving birth, it’s normal for the mother to bleed, for up to eight weeks. Most of the bleeding is from where the placenta comes away from the wall of the uterus. This happens to all women, whether the birth was vaginal or by cesarean section.