Traveling after childbirth

If you had a complication free childbirth or just a few complications and are  recuperating well,  you can travel after one to two weeks after vaginal delivery and 3 to  4 weeks after a c-section. However  the travel shouldn’t be too strenuous. You also have to   carefully listen to the signals your body is sending.

Recovering from childbirth takes time. You need to rest and get assistance from people. Traveling can be stressful and very tiring. The first few weeks after delivery  can be emotional and breastfeeding can also be tough for especially first time mothers. Virginal discomfort may persist for sometime if extensive postdelivery stitching was needed. Vigorous exercise can make this worse.

Even if you feel well , you have to take it easy after childbirth.  Seek the OK of your doctor before you travel and make plans for medical  care  before you go.

You should do the following during your trip

• Drinks plenty of fluids to stay well hydrated
• Wear comfortable clothing
• Get up regularly to stretch your legs and walk around a bit to prevent blood clotting ( You are at increased risk of blood clots in the  weeks  after childbirth )
• Carry a copy of your medical records if your  pregnancy was complicated

Complications such as infections, hemorrhage and blood clotting  are rare especially after the first couple of weeks of childbirth. However cesarean can cause prolonged post delivery pain  and fatigue. That is why most doctors recommend waiting at least 3 to 4 weeks after surgery to travel.