Postpartum Body Changes: Healing After Vaginal Birth or C-Section, Support, and What to Check at 6–8 Weeks

Host Kaile Garcia welcomes Dr. Ricki Pollycove, a longtime Bay Area OB/GYN, to discuss what’s normal and not normal in postpartum recovery. They compare healing after vaginal birth and C-section, noting that discomfort varies with the birth experience and that reducing perineal swelling by positioning hips above the heart can lessen pain and speed healing.

Dr. Pollycove explains typical C-section pain triggers (coughing, sneezing, laughing, sometimes urination) and factors that affect recovery, including excess weight gain.

She emphasizes postpartum nutrition and hydration—high protein, lower carbohydrates, and ample fluids—to support mood, energy, and wound healing.

At the 6–8 week visit, common issues include breastfeeding nipple pain, relationship support, isolation, and mood changes linked to low estrogen while nursing; she also recommends evaluating anemia, thyroid function, possible UTI, and considering safe estrogen support when needed.

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