The woman supporting herself after the birth

Just as every woman's physical recovery will vary during the 1st hour after the birth, so too will her support needs. Some women will be euphoric and full of energy, while others will feel weak or sensitive and reluctant to move. Sometimes the new baby can easily (and unintentionally) absorb the focus of your partner or support people and you may need to gently remind them that you still need their attention and support. Communicating your needs is one way to support yourself.

How able you are to support yourself during the 4th stage of labour will depend on many things. For example:

	How long or short the labour was.
	What type of birth you had.
	If there were any complications.
	If you had pain relief, and / or
	If the baby is well after the birth.

You may feel exhausted and weak. Your vagina and perineum can feel bruised and sore, more so if any stitches were necessary. Care will be needed when moving around, so take it easy at first. Physical assistance will be required to move onto clean bedding, eat and drink, shower and feed your baby. Even if you are feeling like you are on an invincible high, don't underestimate the enormous experience your body has just been through and the adjustment it is still undertaking.

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