Birth

The Period After Delivery

Recovery
In the weeks following childbirth, the uterus slowly shrinks back to its former size. In the process, the uterine lining breaks down and is discharged through the vagina. First, this discharge is thick and bloody, then it becomes thin and yellowish or whitish in color until, after about three weeks, all waste material has been removed. After six weeks, the shrinkage of the uterus is completed. The process can be helped considerably by appropriate physical exercises. Such exercises can also alleviate certain complaints and discomforts that some women feel during this time, such as loss of appetite or constipation.

After delivery, the uterus gradually returns to its former size

1. Delivering the afterbirth. 2. Five days after delivery. 3. Two weeks after delivery.