Childbirth is one of the most beautiful experiences a woman can have but the after-effects can be stressful for a new mom. Cosmetic physician Dr Rashmi Shetty says, "The baby becomes your primary focus but your post-partum body needs attention too. Whether you have a natural childbirth or a long labour resulting in a C-section, there is a lot of healing that your body requires post pregnancy." Your body -weight, skin, hair etc. -goes through a massive transformation over nine months due to hormonal changes in the body; so you need to accept the fact that you'll take time to return to your original self.
We list some of the most com mon problems that a new mom faces and their solutions.
MELASMA
Reason:
One of the most common post-partum problems in Asian women is a butterflyshaped dark or light brown patch occurring on the face - cheeks, nose, forehead or lips. These dark patches are caused by high levels of pregnancy hormones in your body, which suddenly decrease after you give birth. Elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone trigger melanocytes, causing dark spots to appear on the skin which further darken on sun exposure.
Prevent it:
Start using sunscreens of SPF 30 plus every morning. Re-apply at least 2-3 times, even if you are indoors.
Solution:
Use skin lightening creams containing hydroquinone, tretinoin, vitamin C, kojic acid etc. but only after consulting a dermatologist. Home remedies include application of freshly-cut garlic or radish on the patches.Make a paste out of dried and powdered orange peels and rosewater. Apply on the face and leave for 20 minutes.
FLAKY SKIN, CRACKED HEELS AND CHAPPED LIPS
Reason:
Hormonal changes can sap skin of lipids during and immediately after preg nancy, leading to moisture-sapped patches on the face as well as cracked feet and chapped lips. But is it long-term? No. As the reason behind dry skin is lack of hydra tion and moisture, the sooner you restore moisture levels, the sooner your com plexion will return to normal.
Prevent it:
Though some effects of hormones on the body cannot be avoided, a wellplanned, nutritious diet, adequate rest, consumption of adequate water, exercise and regular intake of supplements to save your skin from extreme dryness. Skin should be massaged with a generous amount of moisturiser and oils.
Solution:
For smooth, soft skin and feet, apply a natural oil such as coconut or olive oil or a natural moisturiser. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel on your lips daily to cure chapped lips. Another quick remedy is applying a paste of honey and Vaseline on the lips and leaving it for 10-15 minutes. Remove it by using a cotton ball dipped in warm water.
STRETCH MARKS
Reason:
Stretch marks form around those places where large amounts of fat are stored such as thighs, breasts, stomach, arms, etc. They usually form due to hormonal changes.
Prevent it:
To avoid stretch marks, follow a mois turising routine before delivery and throughout your pregnancy. You can use a light, non-sticky oil with a blend of calendula, lavender, rosemary and chamomile and vitamins A & E. Apply in all areas twice a day with a light massage. Monitor your weight gain during pregnancy.
Solution:
Olive oil, when rubbed daily helps, as it contains lots of nutrients and antioxidants. You can also mix white sugar with almond oil and a few lemon drops and apply it on affected areas.
TIRED UNDER EYES WITH DARK CIRCLES
Reason:
As the mother is busy tending to the baby, she has absolutely no time to catch up on lost sleep. Other reasons are exhaustion and poor blood circulation. Also, nutritional deficiencies of iron, folic acid, vitamin K and C can lead to puffy eyes.
Prevent it:
Though under-eye circles, as well as puffiness cannot be totally prevented, having a well-balanced, nutritious diet is helpful. Also, use good quality dark sunglasses whenever you step out in the sun. Avoid too much caffeine. A good 8 hours of sleep is recommended.
Solution:
One of the effective home remedies for dark circles is potato slice or juice. Tea bags, when dipped in water and cooled, can also help. Try sandal wood paste with milk as a pack. If the eye area is dry and irritated, use an eye cream or a cooling gel pack. Take a nap when your baby is sleeping during the day and put slices of fresh and cool cucumber on your eyes. You can also apply any fresh fruit juice on a cotton pad and soak it over your eyelids.
HAIR LOSS
Reason:
Hair loss after pregnancy is the sudden shedding (sometimes in clumps) of hair that many new mothers experience between three and six months after they give birth. This is because your pregnancy hormones keep those hair from falling and thus your hair looks luscious during pregnancy. But soon after childbirth, your hormone level drops back to normal and those extra strands fall off too.Normally, average hair loss is 100 hair strands a day.
Prevent it:
Keep your hair healthy by eat ing well and taking a prenatal vitamin supplement. You can also use a light and natural hair oil a few times a week to maintain the strength and softness of hair.
Solution:
Ensure good nourishment for your hair through protein-rich foods such as sprouts, fish, lentils, green vegeta bles, etc. Be extra gentle on your hair to prevent excess hair loss after pregnancy. Shampoo only when necessary.
Use a good conditioner and a wide toothed comb to minimise tangling.
QUICK TIPS:
HOW TO HEAL AFTER CHILDBIRTH
Get your body moving. Do your chores with your baby. Babies love to watch you cooking or shopping.
Go for a walk every day. The sunshine and fresh air will do you a world of good.
Lower your standards when it comes to cleanliness. Your house doesn't have to be spotless all the time. Instead, try and make some time for yourself. Take care of your perineal area. Sitting in a few inches of water several times a day will soothe any pain.
Consider getting a monthly massage or manipedi. This will help you manage stress and feel more rested.
Practise light exercises while you are breast feeding your baby.When you are nursing, certain hormones are at a good level which help your uterus and body get back to their previous size and shape.
