You have just given birth. Your baby is here, and your body has done something truly incredible. Now the healing process begins — quietly, gradually, and on your body's own terms.

Here is an honest look at what happens to your body in the first weeks after birth, and what you can expect.

Week 1: The First Days

The first week is the most intense. Your body is working hard to recover.

Postpartum Bleeding (Lochia)

Bleeding after birth is heavy in the first few days — bright red and substantial. You will need large pads and will change them frequently. The discharge contains blood, mucus, and uterine tissue.

Most people find that bleeding is strongest in the first 2–3 days and gradually decreases. Avoid tampons — use only pads to reduce the risk of infection.

Afterpains

The uterus weighs around one kilogram right after birth. It needs to shrink back to about 50–60 grams over six weeks. This contraction is felt as afterpains — cramps in the abdomen that can feel similar to period pain.

Afterpains are strongest during breastfeeding, because oxytocin released during nursing causes the uterus to contract. They are usually more intense with second and subsequent births.

Afterpains are uncomfortable, but a good sign. It means the uterus is doing its job. Acetaminophen (paracetamol) and ibuprofen can help. Ask your midwife or doctor about dosing.

Milk Coming In

Around days 2–4, colostrum transitions to mature breast milk. Your breasts may become large, hard, and sore. Frequent nursing is the best thing you can do. Cold compresses between feeds can help with discomfort.

The engorgement usually only lasts a couple of days. Your body quickly learns to adjust production to your baby's needs.

The Hormone Drop

Estrogen and progesterone plummet once the placenta is delivered. This hormonal crash is among the most dramatic the body experiences. The result is sweating, mood swings, crying, and feeling like you are on an emotional rollercoaster.

The "baby blues" typically peak around days 3–5. They are normal and resolve on their own within two weeks.

Weeks 2–3: Gradual Improvement

Bleeding changes color from red to brownish-red, then pinkish-brown. The amount decreases, but it may increase again if you do too much. That is your body's way of telling you to take it easy.

Stitches and Tears

If you have stitches from a tear or episiotomy, this is when they heal. The stitches dissolve on their own — you do not need to have them removed.

Keep the area clean with water. Avoid soap directly on the wounds. Sit on a soft cushion if it is painful. An ice pack wrapped in a cloth can soothe during the first few days.

Constipation

Many people experience constipation after birth. Hormonal changes, iron supplements, and fear of pain all contribute. Drink plenty of water, eat fiber-rich foods, and try to move gently. Talk to your midwife or doctor if the problem persists.

Contact your doctor or midwife if bleeding suddenly increases again after having decreased, you develop a fever above 38°C (100.4°F), the bleeding has an unpleasant odor, or you have severe pain that is not relieved by standard pain relief.

Weeks 3–4: A New Normal

Bleeding decreases further and often becomes yellowish-white or brownish. Many people begin to feel energy returning, even if nights are still short.

Hair Loss

Many people experience increased hair shedding 2–4 months after birth. During pregnancy, high estrogen levels kept hair in the growth phase. Now that estrogen has dropped, all the hair that was "waiting" to fall out does so at once. It looks dramatic, but it is temporary.

Night Sweats

Night sweats are common in the first few weeks. Your body is getting rid of excess fluid from pregnancy. Keep an extra sheet handy and wear light clothing at night.

Weeks 5–6: Check-Up and Turning Point

The 6-Week Postpartum Check-Up

Around 6 weeks after birth, you will have a check-up with your doctor or midwife. They will confirm that the uterus has returned to its normal size, that any tears have healed, and that you are doing well emotionally.

Come prepared with questions. Write them down. This appointment is for you — use it for everything you are wondering about, whether it concerns your body, contraception, exercise, or your mental health.

Pelvic Floor

The pelvic floor muscles have been stretched and strained during pregnancy and birth. Many people experience urinary leakage, a feeling of heaviness in the pelvis, or reduced sensation.

Start with gentle pelvic floor exercises in the first few days after birth if it feels comfortable. Use Babysential's Pelvic Floor Trainer for structured daily reminders and guided exercises.

Pelvic floor training is the most important exercise you can do after birth. Start gently and build up gradually. Most people notice improvement within 3–6 months with regular practice.

Weeks 6–12: Returning to Movement

After the 6-week check-up, most people can start exercising again — but listen to your body.

Gradual Build-Up

Start with walks and gentle movement. Avoid jumping, running, and heavy strength training for the first 3 months unless your pelvic floor is strong enough. A physical therapist specializing in postpartum care can assess this.

Babysential's Postpartum Fitness program offers workouts specifically designed for after birth, with a gradual build-up and focus on the pelvic floor.

Diastasis Recti

About two-thirds of all people who have been pregnant experience some degree of diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation). The connective tissue between the rectus abdominis muscles has stretched to make room for the baby. In most people, the gap partially closes on its own in the first few weeks.

Read more about diastasis recti after birth for exercises and guidance.

After Cesarean Section

Healing after a cesarean follows its own path. The wound needs 6–8 weeks to heal properly. The first few days it is painful to sit up, cough, and laugh.

Keep the wound clean and dry. Avoid heavy lifting (heavier than the baby) for the first 6 weeks. Postpartum bleeding is normal after cesarean as well, but is often somewhat lighter.

Read our cesarean section guide for detailed guidance on recovery after surgery.

When the Body Does Not Heal as Expected

Most people heal well, but some experience complications.

Infection can occur in a tear, cesarean wound, or the uterus. Symptoms are fever, redness, swelling, pain, or foul-smelling discharge. Contact your doctor promptly.

Urinary leakage that persists after 3 months should be assessed. Ask for a referral to a physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor health.

Pain during sex is common in the first months. Scar massage and gradual re-introduction can help. Talk to your midwife or doctor if pain persists.

Mental health struggles lasting beyond the first two weeks may indicate postpartum depression. Read our guide to postpartum depression and reach out to your doctor or child health nurse.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you bleed after birth?

Most people bleed for 4–6 weeks after birth, but it can last up to 8 weeks. Bleeding is heaviest in the first days and gradually decreases. The color changes from bright red to brownish-red and then yellowish-white.

When can I exercise after birth?

After the 6-week check-up, you can start with light exercise such as walking and gentle strength training. Running and jumping are generally not recommended before 3 months, and only if the pelvic floor is strong enough. Always start with pelvic floor exercises first.

Is urinary leakage normal after birth?

Yes, urinary leakage is very common after birth. The pelvic floor muscles are stretched and need time to strengthen. Regular pelvic floor training helps most people. If leakage persists after 3 months, ask for a referral to a physical therapist.

Your body has done something extraordinary. Give it time, patience, and care. Healing takes the time it takes — and you deserve to rest while it does its work.

Physical Healing After Birth - Your Body Week by Week