Phone: 1-844-344-0408
Your Postpartum Wellness Matters
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Go All In On Your Healing
The early days after giving birth come with a whirlwind of emotions and experiences. You’re getting to know your baby and navigating a new routine all while recovering from pregnancy and birth. It can be an overwhelming journey, but you don’t have to walk it alone. Your Arkansas Health Unit is always there to answer your postpartum wellness questions or provide resources to help you care for your baby and yourself.
Postpartum Recovery
Postpartum health is about caring for your whole self – body, mind, and spirit – as you adjust to life after birth. Prioritizing rest, accepting help from family and friends, and giving yourself time to heal are essential. Follow your care provider’s guidance, attend recommended checkups, and pay attention to your physical and emotional well-being. Every mother’s journey is different, and building a strong support network can make this transition into motherhood healthier and more manageable.
Maternal Health Warning Signs
If you experience any of the below, call your provider or 911 right away.
- A Constant or Worsening Headache
- Dizziness or Fainting
- Sudden Changes in Vision
- A Fever of 100.4°F or Higher
- Extreme Swelling of Your Hands or Face
- Thinking of Harming Yourself or Your Baby
- Difficulty Breathing
- Chest Pain Accompanied by a Rapid Heartbeat
- Severe Nausea and Vomiting
- Severe Belly Pain
- Leg or Arm Pain or Swelling
- Heavy Vaginal Bleeding or Discharge
- Overwhelming Tiredness
Postpartum Mental Health
Mental health plays a significant role in your overall postpartum wellness. From feeling a little blue to crippling anxiety to severe depression, mental health issues are common after giving birth. Fortunately, you do have support – and it’s important that you use it if you need help.
Get Support Feeding Your Baby
Deciding how to feed your baby doesn’t always come easily, but you can access guidance at your Arkansas Health Unit. Whether you want to talk to a lactation consultant, need to bring home a breast pump at no cost or need assistance obtaining formula through WIC, you can find help pursuing whatever path works best for you and your baby.
Safe Sleep
Reduce your baby’s risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) by practicing a few simple safe sleep habits.
- Put baby to sleep on their back alone with no other people (not your bed or couch).
- Put baby to sleep in a crib, bassinet or portable play pen with a flat, firm mattress and a fitted sheet.
- Keep baby’s bed empty. No toys, pillows, bumpers or blankets.
- Breastfeed if possible and avoid smoking.
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