1. The “Fundal Massage”
The very misbranded fundal massage. It’s not fun, and it definitely doesn’t feel like a
massage! Whether you have a vaginal delivery or a C-section, whether you go unmedicated
or opt for all the pain management options available, you will likely be encouraged to have
fundal checks (especially in a hospital setting).
A fundal “massage” is when your provider presses on your uterus through your abdomen to
help it contract down and reduce the risk of excessive bleeding. While it’s incredibly
important for your safety, it can feel intense and uncomfortable (sometimes even painful).
Knowing it’s coming and understanding why it’s happening can help you mentally prepare.
Don’t hesitate to breathe through it and ask your provider to talk you through what they’re doing.
2. The Stage Fright During Your First Pee (and Poop)
At some point after birth, you’ll be told it’s time to try to pee and eventually poop. Suddenly,
something that’s always been automatic can feel… not so automatic. Whether it’s the
pressure of knowing hospital discharge may be delayed, or the tenderness and trauma your
body just experienced (or both), that first trip to the bathroom can feel surprisingly stressful.
If you find yourself sitting there thinking, “why is this so hard?”, it’s incredibly common.
Try taking slow, deep breaths, turning on the faucet, or even hopping in the shower to help
your body relax. Removing the pressure often helps things happen more naturally, even if it
starts with just a small trickle.
3. Uterine Cramping While Nursing
Oxytocin, my favorite hormone. Not just because it played a big role in my graduate thesis,
but because it plays such a powerful role in both bringing your baby into the world and
sustaining them afterward. During labor, oxytocin causes your uterus to contract, and
postpartum it helps trigger your milk letdown when you’re nursing.
What many people don’t expect is that these same contractions can continue after birth,
especially while breastfeeding. You may feel cramping that can resemble mild (or sometimes
not-so-mild) labor contractions. This is actually a good sign because it means your body is
working to shrink your uterus back down and reduce bleeding. It can take you by surprise,
but it’s necessary and temporary.
4. The Complete Whirlwind of Emotions
The emotional shift postpartum can feel just as intense as the physical one. One moment you
may feel overwhelming love and gratitude, and the next you might feel anxious, tearful, or
completely unsure of yourself. Hormones are rapidly shifting, you’re likely sleep-deprived,
and your entire world has just changed overnight.
All of it is normal. The highs, the lows, and everything in between. Give yourself permission
to feel it without judgment. Lean on your support system, talk about what’s coming up for
you, and remember that you’re not meant to navigate this alone. If those feelings ever start to feel too heavy or persistent, reaching out for professional support is a strong and important step. Understanding these experiences can help you feel more prepared and supported during the early postpartum period.
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