Pregnancy recovery Quiz

How much do you know about recovering from your pregnancy? Try taking the following true-or-false quiz. You may be surprised at how much you know.

#1. Most women feel ready to go home from the hospital within 24 hours.

False. Many women feel very tired after their delivery and feel like staying in the hospital for another day. However, many insurance plans are now recommending dismissal from the hospital within 24 hours. If you feel too tired, or unable to go home, let your healthcare provider know.

#2. Most women stop bleeding after a vaginal delivery within 5 days.

False. Most women have some bleeding for at least two weeks. If you start bleeding heavily, or you stopped bleeding and then restarted, or if you notice pus or a bad odor from the bleeding, contact your healthcare provider.

#3. Women can return to work and pre-pregnancy activities within 6 weeks of delivery.

True and false. Your return to work depends on you, your body, and your job. Did you have a difficult delivery? Did you bleed a lot after your delivery? Did you have a C-Section? Do you have help for your household? All of these questions, plus your general well- being, help determine when you can resume your routine. Most providers instruct women not to have sex for 6 weeks following delivery. Ask your provider about permissible activities at your 6- week check-up.

#4. Breastfeeding requires increased maternal calorie intake and fluid intake.

True. To ensure adequate milk supply and to keep your energy up, you need to drink extra fluid and eat extra calories every day. Be sure to drink at least 10 glasses of fluid and eat at least 500 more calories than when you are not nursing. Just like in pregnancy, the breastfeeding mom is eating for two. Remember, it is common for breastfeeding moms to feel increased fatigue. Try to nap when your baby is napping to help your recovery.

#5. Many postpartum women feel depressed.

True. Many women feel depressed in the first few months after delivery. This may be due to hormone changes, lack of sleep, a change in your relationship with your partner, and the demands of a new baby. If you are finding yourself seriously depressed, speak with your healthcare provider. You may only need a period of uninterrupted sleep, or you may need more help. Your healthcare provider can help decide whether your sadness requires further evaluation.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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