Need to talk? Call 1800 882 436.
It's a free call with a maternal child health nurse. *call charges may apply from your mobile

Is it an emergency? Dial 000
If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately.

beginning of content

Your body after having a baby

Mum's first 24 hours after birth

Find out what to expect in the first 24 hours after giving birth.

Mum's first few days after giving birth

A lot happens in the first few days after the birth of your child. Find out what you can expect to happen.

Birth injury (to the mother)

Giving birth doesn't always go to plan. Injuries such as tears, pelvic floor damage or haemorrhoids, can occur — but support and treatment are availab...

Birth trauma (emotional)

There are ways to reduce your risk of an emotionally traumatic childbirth, while support and treatment are available if you experience symptoms.

Looking after your body after having a baby

Over the last 9 months, your body has had to change to accommodate your growing baby and preparing to give birth.

Bladder weakness after birth

Leaking urine after childbirth is very common. It can be embarrassing and inconvenient, but there are ways to improve bladder weakness.

Pelvic floor exercises

Pelvic floor exercises help to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor which come under great strain in pregnancy and childbirth.

Physiotherapy advice after pregnancy

When you are pregnant, your body changes. Read about simple exercises and healthy habits to help cope with these changes.

Your physical and emotional wellbeing

Bringing your baby home can be a wonderful time, but it can also be chaotic and exhausting. Life with a new baby is demanding and unpredictable.

Postnatal depression

Many women experience the 'baby blues' after pregnancy, but when feelings persist beyond these early days, it may be a sign of depression.

Anxiety and parenthood

Postnatal anxiety develops in the first year of parenthood and is common in both parents. Learn to recognise the signs and get the support you need.

Periods after pregnancy

After you've had your baby, you may wonder what will happen with your periods. Find out what to expect after birth and when your periods might return.

Body image after having a baby

Your body can change in many ways during pregnancy and after you have given birth, but there are ways you can help your body recover and get used to t...

Losing weight after birth safely

Tips for losing weight after birth, including how to enjoy a healthy lifestyle, setting realistic goals, breastfeeding and weight loss and when to see...

Safe return to exercise after pregnancy

Exercise can help you recover after childbirth, make you stronger and improve mood. Here are some tips on how to exercise safely after a pregnancy.

Sex after having a baby

There are no rules about when to start having sex again after you've given birth. Don't rush into it. If sex hurts, it won't be pleasurable.

Call us and speak to a Maternal Child Health Nurse for personal advice and guidance.

Need further advice or guidance from our maternal child health nurses?

1800 882 436

Video call

Healthdirect Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners and to Elders both past and present.

This information is for your general information and use only and is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes.

The information is not a substitute for independent professional advice and should not be used as an alternative to professional health care. If you have a particular medical problem, please consult a healthcare professional.

Except as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, this publication or any part of it may not be reproduced, altered, adapted, stored and/or distributed in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Healthdirect Australia.