NORMAL POSTPARTUM CARE
Following Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery (SVD) and Caesarean Section:
• Commence regular diet as soon as possible, as long as there is no contraindication to doing so.
• Resume activity.
• Regular perineal cleansing 2 to 3 times daily or following bowel movements and urination.
• Ice packs to perineum if painful.
• Sitz bath with warm water if perineal laceration or episiotomy.
• Regular analgesia, stool softener (may wish to give self-medication package so that the patient can administer the drug when necessary).
• Give Rhogam if Rhesus negative and unsensitized.
• Support exclusive breastfeeding or the use of a breast binder for women who decide against breastfeeding.
• Provide breastfeeding support at home if difficulty with breastfeeding.
• Give MMR to women who are not immune to rubella (instruct patient to avoid getting pregnant for 3 months).
• Discuss contraception ideally upon discharge home and be prepared to discuss it again at the six week post-partum check.
• Emotional and social support: Encourage patients to have adequate rest, spousal time off/paternal leave; discuss signs and symptoms of postpartum mood changes.