The Ideal 24-Hour Postpartum Routine Every New Mother Should Follow

The postpartum period is a critical and sensitive stage in a mother’s life, marking the transition from pregnancy to early motherhood. During this time, new mothers need to care for both their own body and their newborn. According to Dr. Azhar Abu Rabea, a specialist in obstetrics and gynecology, here is an ideal 24-hour postpartum schedule to follow:

1. The First Hour: Skin-to-Skin with Your Baby

The first 60 minutes after birth, known as the "golden hour," should be dedicated to bonding with your newborn. Hold your baby on your chest—lying on your back or side—so they can hear your heartbeat and feel your warmth. This practice:

• Reduces postpartum bleeding

• Increases milk hormone levels

• Calms the newborn and strengthens emotional bonding

2. Drink Warm Fluids

Start by drinking a small cup of warm water with a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of natural honey. Avoid tea or coffee. This helps restore fluid balance and reduce dizziness, which is common in the first two hours after delivery.

3. Eat a Light Meal

Opt for a warm vegetable soup. Avoid heavy foods high in carbs or fried foods, which may cause gas, bloating, or worsen stitches from vaginal or C-section delivery. You may also have a small banana or up to three dates.

4. Go to the Bathroom Within 6 Hours

Urinating within the first six hours is essential to help the uterus contract and prevent excessive bleeding. Drinking warm water, walking lightly, and gently pressing below the navel can help stimulate urination.

5. Proper Technique for Getting Out of Bed

When rising for the first time:

• Roll to your side

• Bend your knees

• Push yourself up with your hands slowly
  This reduces strain on stitches and minimizes dizziness or fainting.

6. Breastfeed Within 2 Hours

Early breastfeeding has multiple benefits:

• Promotes oxytocin release, increasing milk production

• Stimulates the newborn’s immune system through colostrum

• Reduces risk of jaundice
  Ensure your baby latches correctly, even if they do not feed a lot initially.

7. Monitor Postpartum Bleeding

Check the amount, color, and smell of vaginal bleeding:

• A pad filling in an hour is normal

• Every 30 minutes may require doctor consultation

• Every 10 minutes requires urgent medical attention

8. First Bath Within 24 Hours

If taking a bath, use lukewarm water—not hot—to avoid increasing bleeding or interfering with uterine contraction.

9. Sleep Position in the First Night

Sleeping on your left side helps:

• Reduce dizziness

• Improve blood flow to the heart

• Provide comfort to the pelvic area after delivery

10. Holding Your Newborn Safely

When lifting your baby:

• Keep your back straight

• Bend your knees, not your back

• Avoid prolonged bedrest; gentle movement within the room is recommended
  Proper technique prevents back or joint pain and protects fragile stitches.

Key Takeaway:

The first 24 hours postpartum are crucial for both the mother and newborn. Following this routine ensures a safer recovery, promotes bonding, supports breastfeeding, and reduces complications.