POST NATAL PROBLEMS
1. After pains: The pains which are felt after the birth are the after pains which are caused by the shrinking of the uterus. These pains are occurring for a good purpose, so try to regard them in a positive light. If you find them particularly painful, take a dose of paracetamol or get a gentle massage with base oil containing lavender essential oil.

2. Breast discomfort: You can expect some discomfort from your breasts as the milk comes in, generally around the third day after the birth. They become heavy and swell with milk which makes you uncomfortable. Gentle massage may bring some relief, as well as relaxation during and after feeding. A small dose of paracetamol may be of help. When you decide to bottle feed your breast milk will take several days to dry up and you can experience some pain during that time as the milk is reabsorbed. Try to expose your nipples to the air after feeding. Do not scrub them in order to harden them. Make sure that the baby does not suck on the nipple itself but puts jaws around the areola (the pigmented ring around the nipple) so that the nipple is drawn to the back of her mouth. Dry the nipples thoroughly after feeding and place breast pads inside your bra to soak up any excess milk that may be stimulated. Regularly feed your baby from both sides to enable the milk to drain through the ducts.

3. Abdominal cramps: Massage is one of the best natural therapies available, and is particularly effective in aiding relaxation. Massage promotes mental and physical wellbeing in general, as well as specifically helping to shrink the uterus after the birth, as for relieving after-pains, use lavender essential oil blended with sweet almond oil for abdominal discomfort.

4. Fluid Retention: Drinking herbal tea, such as fennel, can have a cleansing effect, as can massage since this stimulates the lymph system and helps it to drain. You might also like to eat natural diuretics like Celery, Parsley, Fennel, Asparagus etc.

5. Sweating: Excess sweating is common but take heart because it does help with reducing fluid and consequently weight loss.

6. Headaches: Many women experience headaches for several weeks after birth. These are due to hormonal changes or strain during delivery. Massage and facial massage are extremely effective drug-free headache relief alternatives. Breathing techniques can be beneficial since many headaches may be caused by stress. Relaxation and meditation techniques will also help.

7. Stretch Marks: Stretch marks that have occurred during pregnancy will shrink and become less obvious with time. Massage oil containing lavender oil is an effective treatment for stretch marks.

Remember these problems are for short time but if not handled well will affect you lifelong. Use relaxation techniques and complementary treatments that promote general good health for a healthy you.