Other Weird (and Perhaps Not So Wonderful) Postpartum Symptoms: What’s Normal After Birth

Hey mama! This is the fifth part of our Viva La Vulva Prepared for Postpartum series — and today we’re talking about the many weird (and sometimes not so wonderful) postpartum symptoms that can happen after birth.

Having a baby is exciting — but the postpartum period comes with many physical and emotional changes that aren’t talked about enough. At Viva La Vulva, we believe an educated mama is an empowered mama.

Every pregnancy, birth and postpartum recovery journey is completely unique. How you give birth can affect how your body heals — but understanding what’s normal after birth helps you feel calmer, more prepared and more confident heading into the fourth trimester.

In this part of our postpartum series, we’re serving up real talk about common postpartum body changes, what to expect after giving birth, and simple ways to ease discomfort.

Before we dive in — take a moment to acknowledge you and your incredible body. Growing and birthing a human is no small feat. Whether you’re pregnant, freshly postpartum, or months into recovery — you are doing something amazing.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended as medical advice. Always check with your lead maternity carer (LMC) if you have concerns.

Postpartum Body Changes: What to Expect After Birth (No “Bouncing Back” Here)

Your body goes through enormous change during pregnancy and birth — and postpartum recovery takes time.

Some changes are physical.
Some are emotional.
Some are both.

And all of them are normal.

This season isn’t about snapping back — it’s about healing forward.

Let’s break down some of the most common postpartum symptoms and body changes many mamas experience after giving birth.

Diastasis Recti: Abdominal Separation After Pregnancy

During pregnancy, your abdominal muscles stretch and separate to make room for your growing baby. This is known as diastasis recti.

For some women, the gap naturally closes within a few months. For others, it can take longer — or need targeted support.

Common signs include:

• a belly that still looks pregnant
• core weakness
• lower back pain
• difficulty lifting or pushing

How to Check for Diastasis Recti

Place your fingers at your belly button, pointing toward your pelvis. Gently press down and lift your head slightly.

If you feel a gap of two finger widths or more between muscles — you may have diastasis recti.

Always check above and below the belly button too.

Helpful Tips

• Get clearance from your LMC before exercising
• Look for postpartum-specific core rehab programs
• Seek physio support if unsure

Remember — postpartum movement is about healing, not shrinking.

Loving Your Postpartum Body (Yes, Even the Changes)

Your body may not return to how it looked pre-baby — and that’s okay.

Loose skin, stretch marks and a softer tummy are completely normal after pregnancy and birth. These changes are signs of what your body has accomplished.

Your “tiger stripes” tell a powerful story.

Healing takes time. Be gentle with yourself.

Postpartum Night Sweats: Why They Happen

Postpartum night sweats are very common after birth.

Your body sheds extra fluid from pregnancy while hormones shift dramatically — which often leads to heavy sweating, especially at night.

Helpful Tips

• sleep on towels
• wear loose breathable clothing
• keep hydration high
• use a mattress protector if needed

The good news? They usually settle within days to weeks.

Postpartum Swelling: Hands, Feet & Face

Fluid retention during pregnancy and hormonal changes after birth often cause swelling.

This usually reduces within a few days to a week postpartum.

Helpful Tips

• drink water regularly
• elevate your legs
• rest often
• sleep on your left side
• wear loose clothing

Postpartum Constipation: Very Common (and Very Normal)

Hormones, dehydration, reduced movement and (for belly birth mamas) anaesthesia can slow digestion.

Postpartum constipation often happens in the first few days and can last weeks.

Helpful Tips

• eat fibre-rich foods (fruit, veg, legumes, seeds)
• drink water often
• use stool softeners if recommended
• try gentle natural remedies like kiwi crush

Haemorrhoids After Birth: Pesky but Common

Haemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum caused by pressure and blood flow changes during pregnancy and birth.

They can itch, hurt or bleed — but usually resolve with time.

Helpful Tips

• witch hazel for soothing
• warm baths
• fibre-rich foods
• hydration
• avoid straining (elevate knees on a stool)
• rolled towels for sitting comfort

Always talk to your LMC if pain persists.

Other Common Postpartum Body Changes

Hair Loss

Hormone shifts often cause shedding around 3 months postpartum — normal and temporary.

Skin Changes

Pigmentation, dryness, acne or darkened areolas are common and usually fade over time.

Teeth & Eyes

Hormones can affect gums, cavities and vision — checkups help.

Veins & Stretch Marks

Spider veins, varicose veins and stretch marks are common and often improve gradually.

You Are Healing — And That Takes Time

Postpartum recovery is a big adjustment.

Understanding these postpartum symptoms helps reduce overwhelm and fear — especially when you’re tired, healing and learning life with a newborn.

Your body deserves patience, care and celebration.

Postpartum is unpredictable, powerful and deeply transformative.

Knowing what’s normal after birth helps you move through recovery with confidence and compassion.

You’ve got this, mama — and we’re right here with you.