What Precautions Should Be Taken After a Vaginal Delivery?

May 12, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Zhe
Introduction
After a vaginal delivery, clean the external genitalia daily with iodophor to maintain hygiene. If there is a wound in the perineal area, localized irradiation with a heat lamp may be used to promote wound healing. Additionally, blood volume increases during pregnancy; after delivery, this excess blood volume is eliminated from the body through sweating, resulting in profuse perspiration during the puerperium. Therefore, it is important to change clothes frequently and bathing with warm water is permissible.

As society continues to evolve, many women have developed new perspectives on vaginal delivery and cesarean section. To ensure their baby’s health, most women prefer vaginal delivery. However, many are uncertain about postpartum care—what precautions should be taken after vaginal delivery?

Key Post-Vaginal-Delivery Precautions

After vaginal delivery, clean the external genitalia daily with iodophor to maintain hygiene. If there is a perineal wound, localized heat lamp therapy may be used to promote healing. During pregnancy, blood volume increases significantly; after delivery, this excess fluid is expelled through perspiration, resulting in heavy sweating during the puerperium. Therefore, change clothes frequently and consider taking warm baths. Adequate protein intake is essential to support recovery and enhance nutrition. Consume iron-rich foods such as lean meat, black-boned chicken, and pork liver. Additionally, eat plenty of vegetables and fruits—but limit intake of “cooling” fruits like watermelon, pear, and persimmon. Finally, abstain from sexual intercourse for at least two months to reduce the risk of gynecological infections.

Vaginal delivery—the natural physiological process of childbirth—is divided into three stages: the first stage begins with regular uterine contractions and ends when the cervix is fully dilated; the second stage extends from full cervical dilation to complete delivery of the fetus; and the third stage spans from fetal delivery to complete expulsion of the placenta and membranes. Vaginal delivery is considered the optimal mode of childbirth, offering minimal trauma, rapid recovery, and fewer complications.

Maintain healthy lifestyle habits—avoid frequent late-night activity and ensure sufficient sleep. We hope this information proves helpful!