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Post-Maternity Health: What Every New Mother Should Know - Q & A Session with an Expert

  • decodeMR Team
  • 1 day ago
  • 3 min read


Welcome to another episode of Inline, brought to you by decodeMR.


In this episode, we focus on a topic that is often overlooked but has a deep impact on the well-being of women worldwide — post-maternity health. While childbirth is a life-changing experience, the physical and emotional journey that follows is equally important and deserve more attention.


To gain deeper insight into this critical phase, we spoke with Dr. Vinodhini Bhaskaran, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Park City Medical Center, Malaysia. Dr. Bhaskaran shares valuable insights into the common challenges new mothers face — from postpartum pain and hormonal changes to emotional well-being and recovery.


She also highlights the importance of continued care, support systems, proper nutrition, and gradual physical activity. Additionally, she touches on aspects that are often overlooked, such as mental health and the societal pressures new mothers face.


Key Discussion Points:


1) Physical and Emotional Changes Post-Childbirth (2:04)


  • Childbirth brings exhaustion, pain, and hormonal shifts.

  • Common physical issues include:

                       I.  Uterine contractions

                       II. Perineal soreness

                       III. Breast engorgement

                       IV. Urinary retention or incontinence

  • Emotional changes often overlooked include:

                        I.  Anxiety

                       II.  Sadness

                      III.  Postpartum depression


2) Recognizing Warning Signs Postpartum (4:58)


  • Danger signs to watch for:

                           I. Excessive bleeding (soaking more than one pad per hour)

                         II.  High fever, chills

                        III.  Leg swelling or calf tenderness

                       IV.  Sudden breathlessness

  • Emotional warning signs:

                           I.  Panic or extreme anxiety

                         II.  Persistent sadness or emotional numbness

  • Persistent headaches, vomiting, or blurred vision may indicate high blood pressure


3) PCOS and Long-Term Health Impacts (7:15)


  • PCOS continues to impact women post-pregnancy

  • Long-term health risks include:

                          I.  Metabolic syndrome

                         II.  Type 2 diabetes

                        III.  Obesity and weight gain

                       IV.  Fertility complications in future pregnancies

  • Importance of lifestyle management and 6-week glucose testing postpartum


4) Mental Health After Delivery (9:34)


  • Postpartum blues: Common in first 10 days

  • Postpartum depression: Prolonged sadness, disinterest, or suicidal thoughts

  • Key needs:

                           I.   Open family support

                         II.   Emotional validation

                        III.    Professional help if symptoms persist


5) Nutrition and Supplements (11:43)


  • Nutrient needs continue during breastfeeding

  • Important nutrients include:

                         I.   Iron, calcium, and vitamin D

                        II.   Omega-3 and DHA

                       III.   Protein and hydration


  • A balanced diet supports recovery, milk production, and energy levels


6) Physical Activity After Delivery (13:48)


  • Physical activity depends on delivery type and recovery rate

    • Normal delivery: Gentle walking can begin within a week, full activity by 4 weeks

    • C-section: Wait 6–8 weeks before resuming exercise

  • Recommended exercises:

                          I.  Walking, swimming

                         II.   Kegels and pelvic floor exercises

                        III.   Core strengthening over time


7) Systemic Support for Mothers (16:22)


  • Need for:

                           I.  Longer maternity leave (beyond 98 days)

                         II. Improved childcare access

  • Malaysia’s postnatal check-up model praised for early detection of complications

  • Society and community play a vital role in easing postpartum stress


8) Balancing Self-Care and Newborn Care (18:44)


  • Mothers often neglect their own needs

  • Self-care includes:

                         I.  Prioritizing rest and nutrition

                         II. Practicing mindfulness and setting healthy boundaries


9) How Families Can Support Without Adding Stress (20:18)


  • Meaningful support strategies:

                         I. Help with household chores

                        II.  Take turns in nighttime baby care

                       III.  Offer emotional support through listening and presence


  • Respecting the mother’s choices and boundaries

  • Encourage social involvement to prevent feelings of isolation


Take-Home Messages


  • Postpartum recovery involves both physical and emotional changes—recognizing and addressing both is key to a smoother transition into motherhood

  • Do not ignore warning signs such as excessive bleeding, fever, swelling, or persistent sadness. Early medical intervention can prevent complications

  • PCOS does not end with childbirth. Continued lifestyle management, regular check-ups, and glucose monitoring are crucial for long-term health

  • Postpartum blues and depression are real and treatable—emotional support from family and healthcare providers can make a big difference

  • Nutrition and hydration are essential during breastfeeding and recovery. Continuing prenatal supplements can support healing and overall energy

  • Gentle physical activity like walking or Kegels can be safely introduced post-delivery, depending on the type of birth and recovery progress

  • Self-care is not selfish. Mothers must prioritize rest, nourishment, and emotional wellness to care effectively for their newborn

  • Respect and communication are key—families should offer help without imposing, listen more, and provide consistent emotional reassurance


About Dr. Vinodhini Bhaskaran:


Dr. Vinodhini Bhaskaran is a highly respected Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Park City Medical Centre, Malaysia, with extensive experience in women's health, pregnancy, and postpartum care. With a strong passion for maternal wellness, she has spent years guiding women through every stage of reproductive health, from fertility to childbirth and beyond. Dr. Vinodhini specializes in managing high-risk pregnancies, minimally invasive gynecological procedures, and postnatal recovery. Her holistic approach emphasizes not only physical healing but also emotional and mental well-being, making her a trusted advocate for comprehensive postpartum care.



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