Just as every woman's physical and emotional recovery will vary after the birth, so too will her support needs. The first 2 weeks after the labour and birth will be full of change, requiring immense physical and emotional adjustments. The birth has finally come and gone, but the woman's body continues to work hard to recuperate, adjust and produce breast milk (if breast feeding). Care may be needed when moving around, if you feel sore and swollen or have stitches to the genitals, (or abdomen after a Caesarean), so take it easy. If you have had a Caesarean, this is a major operation that requires at least 6 weeks to fully recover from.
During the early weeks, you will probably still feel a little weak and tired. Most women find that their energy does not start to noticeably return until their baby moves into a more predictable feeding and sleeping pattern (usually about 6 to 8 weeks after the birth). The hormones of breastfeeding can also tend to relax you and 'slow you down'. So don't be surprised if you feel a little 'laid back' and 'hazy'.
Try to slowly increase your physical activity over the following weeks, and avoid attempting too much, too soon. Many mothers try be 'superwoman' after the birth, not realising how vulnerable their body can be. Your efforts to 'do it all' may only end up leading to you being physically drained and exhausted the next day. However, for many women, often their body will 'tell them' they are doing too much. This can manifest as physical signs such heavier bleeding, feeling pain, dragging and heaviness in the
perineum and anus, and possibly developing a breast infection (called
mastitis). Plan to spend the first couple of weeks mostly at home, and try not to have too many outings, or if so, make them short. Remember that your baby is totally dependent on you and needs you to stay well.