Postpartum maternal self-care
When teaching your patient about postpartum self-care, be sure to include these topic areas and instructions.
Personal hygiene
Change perineal pads frequently, removing them from the front to the back and disposing of them in a plastic bag.
Perform perineal care each time you urinate or move your bowels.
Monitor your vaginal discharge; it should change from red to pinkish-brown to clear or white before stopping altogether. Notify your practitioner if the discharge returns to a previous color, becomes bright red or yellowish-green, suddenly increases in amount, or develops an offensive odor.
Follow your practitioner’s instructions about using sitz baths or applying heat to your perineum.
Shower daily.
Breasts
Wear a firm, supportive bra.
If nipple leakage occurs, use clean gauze pads or nursing pads inside your bra to absorb the moisture.Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel
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