HOW AYURVEDA CAN HELP IN POSTNATAL PERIOD CHALLENGES

The postnatal period, commonly called the postpartum period, begins right after the baby is born and lasts until six weeks. While most attention focuses on the nine months of pregnancy, postnatal care is important, too. Of course, the mother is also a newborn in every sense. This phase marks significant physical, emotional, and psychological changes as the body recovers from the stresses of pregnancy and labour. 

One of the most important aspects of the postnatal period is the physical recovery of the mother’s body. It varies depending on the mode of delivery. The body begins the process of healing, particularly the uterus, which contracts back to its pre-pregnancy size. This can take several weeks and is often associated with cramping and vaginal discharge known as lochia, which can persist for up to 6 weeks.

Hormonal changes also play a critical role following delivery. The levels of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone drop dramatically. This shift can lead to breast engorgement, hair loss and increased sweating. New mothers may also experience fatigue due to the demands of caring for a newborn, coupled with the physical toll of childbirth.
Additionally, mothers may face issues related to perineal healing if they experience vaginal tears and healing of surgical wounds(in case of C-section).

Emotions during a postnatal period can be challenging as they range from mood swings and irritability to postpartum depression. Mothers may feel isolated and overwhelmed even though the period is supposed to be joyful. Postpartum depression can be exhibited as constant low moods, sadness, and thoughts like not being good enough for the baby. This could make the period more stressful as it makes bonding with the baby difficult.

1.    Help in reversing the body of a woman into a pre-pregnancy state
2.    Effortless lactation and more restful feeding
3.    Increased psychological alertness and emotional steadiness

First and foremost, proper rest and nutrition are needed. A balanced diet plan and staying hydrated(especially if breastfeeding) support overall health and energy levels.

Episiotomy wound healing(a surgical incision made in the perineum) can be promoted by keeping the area dry and clean, changing sanitary pads at regular intervals, and cleansing the area with lukewarm water.

Sleep can be challenging as the newborn wakes every few hours to feed. Compromising on quality sleep can kick back as frustration later. Strategies like Sleeping When the Baby Sleeps can be helpful.
Relaxation techniques for the body as well as the mind can be practised. Incorporating mindfulness, breathing exercises, yoga and exercises like Kegels (contract,  hold, rest & relax) helps in strengthening the pelvic floor muscles.

Restful breastfeeding promotes a calm atmosphere which enhances the bonding between mother and baby. This can facilitate easy milk letdown and efficient feeding. Comfortable positioning, using support cushions and Skin-to-Skin contact can make the feeding experience relaxed.
Also, frequent breastfeeding is recommended to avoid breast engorgement which can lead to further complications. In case of women who have decided not to breastfeed should take adequate measures to prevent these. Mechanical extraction of milk (using breast pumps) and usage of firm support can help.

The postpartum mind can go for a toss. Understanding this beforehand can make things a little easier. The factors contributing can range from the indulgence of space by eager visitors to the self-doubts of mothers. Partners to set boundaries with outsiders even if it's family, for the well-being in this huge transition. Addressing emotional and psychological concerns through communication and seeking professional help can lessen the complexities.

Sexual interests can decrease after delivery because of hormonal fluctuations. This may take up to a year to restore especially in the case of feeding women. Discussing this shift at the early postpartum period can help in maintaining relation dynamics and can avoid unintended closed-spaced pregnancy.
 

Episiotomy wound management

For vaginal fumigation drugs like Aquilaria agallocha, Commiphora mukkul , Saussurea lappa are used.

To increase breast milk production

Drugs such as Moringa oleifera , Trigonella foenum , Asparagus racemosus , Cumminum cyminum and the intake of milk.

Medicated bath post-delivery

Starting a few days after delivery ( 5-7 days in case of normal delivery & in case of C-section after the wound healing) drugs like Ficus carica , Ficus marocarpa , Ficus religiosa , Psidium guajava , Ficus benghalensis , Mangifera indica, Curcuma longa, Piper nigrum, Thespesia populnea can be used for post-delivery bath

The postnatal period is filled with rewards and challenges. Care during this period is a vital component of maternal and infant health. Providing health care, mental support, and parenting education contributes to the development of a healthier future generation.  
By a more empathetic approach, society as well as family can support new parents, especially the mother to bloom in their new phase of life. The pressure of bouncing back quickly after delivery to the pre-pregnant state will cause stress. Preparing for early parenthood days at the time of baby planning itself helps in making the whole journey wholesome.