After a vaginal birth, the body recovers from labour, blood loss, and sometimes a tear or episiotomy. Discomfort, uterine cramps, and lochia can occur, but the key question is whether they are improving or worsening. Your discharge plan and prescribed medicines take priority over online tips.
Key takeaways
- 01
Discharge instructions and contact number
- 02
Prescribed medicines and times
- 03
Pads and lochia log
1. Care for the perineum gently
Wash hands before and after changing pads, change pads regularly, and follow the specific instructions for any stitches. Keep the area clean and dry as advised; do not apply herbs, strong antiseptics, or unprescribed medicines. Change sitting position, alternate rest with gentle movement, and ask about pain relief compatible with feeding if relevant.
- Pain should trend easier, not steadily worse
- Begin pelvic-floor work gently and with guidance
2. Track lochia and activity
Record lochia by pads, colour, smell, and clots rather than comparing with online photos. A small increase after activity may mean you need rest, but heavy bleeding, large clots, foul smell, or a clear increase needs assessment. Take short indoor walks if approved, drink to thirst, eat regularly, and avoid loads beyond your current ability.
- Rise slowly if dizzy
- Assign specific household tasks to helpers
3. Signs that need urgent contact
Seek emergency care for bleeding that soaks a pad in about an hour, very large clots, dizziness or fainting, breathing difficulty, chest pain, temperature of 38°C or higher, increasing abdominal or perineal pain, foul discharge, one-sided leg swelling or pain, persistent headache, or visual change. Thoughts of harming yourself or the baby are also an emergency. Call when something feels wrong even if it is not listed.
- State the birth date and mode of birth
- Do not stay alone when faint, weak, or worsening
Practical checklist
- Discharge instructions and contact number
- Prescribed medicines and times
- Pads and lochia log
- Water, meals, and rest within reach
- Named household and baby-care helpers
- Postnatal follow-up appointment
How NIMO built this guide
NIMO writes and localizes each guide for Vietnamese families, then checks key facts against the official references below. The links support the guide; they are not the guide itself.
Edited by NIMOVietnamese expert review pending
Fact-check references
This content is for information only and does not replace medical advice. For severe symptoms, breathing difficulty, or unusual unresponsiveness, contact a local medical facility or emergency service immediately.