Call us: 011 458 2369
DR ROCKSON PRACTISE
For women, By women.
Postpartum is not just about healing a body. It’s about finding yourself again in the quiet, in the chaos and in the love you never knew could ache so deeply.
Postpartum Care: Supporting You Through the Fourth Trimester
The postpartum period, the first six weeks after childbirth is a transformative time filled with joy, adjustments, and healing. Dr. Rockson is dedicated to providing comprehensive care to ensure you and your baby thrive during this crucial phase.​
Your Postpartum Checkup
​
At your 6-week postnatal visit, Dr. Rockson will ensure your physical recovery is on track and that you feel supported in your transition into motherhood.
This appointment may include:
​
-
A Pap smear and cervical screening
-
Contraception counselling tailored to your needs
-
A full checkup of your healing progress (especially after a C-section or tear)
-
An open space to talk through any emotional or physical challenges
​
C-Section Recovery​
​
Healing from a caesarean section takes time, and your comfort is key. Dr. Rockson provides personalised guidance to help ease your recovery.
​
Support includes:
​
-
Advice on caring for your scar and recognizing signs of infection
-
Tips for safe movement to avoid strain
-
Recommendations for breastfeeding positions that reduce discomfort and pressure on your incision
​
Every recovery is different. Trust your pace and reach out if anything feels off.​
Postpartum Bleeding (Lochia)
​
It’s normal to experience bleeding after birth, known as lochia, as your body sheds what supported your pregnancy. You can expect:
​
-
Bleeding that lasts around 4–6 weeks, gradually decreasing
-
Changes in colour, from bright red to pink, then brown or yellow-white
-
Clots in the early days are normal but contact Dr. Rockson if they are large or persist
​
​If bleeding increases or is accompanied by fever or pain, get in touch immediately, your safety always comes first.
​
Nourishment & Nutrition
Postpartum recovery requires gentle nourishment, food that fuels your healing and supports breastfeeding (if you choose to).
​
Dr. Rockson’s nutrition tips:
​
-
Continue your prenatal vitamins to replenish nutrients
-
Focus on balanced meals: iron-rich foods, fibre, healthy fats and hydration
-
Opt for soft, easy-to-digest meals in the first few days
-
Keep snacks and water within reach, especially for those late-night feeds
Your Emotional Well-being
After birth, hormones shift rapidly and it’s completely normal to feel emotional, tearful, or overwhelmed in the first two weeks. This is often called the “baby blues.”
​
If these feelings persist or you feel detached, anxious, or hopeless, you may be experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety and you’re not alone.
​
Dr. Rockson is here to help you navigate this. With compassion and confidentiality, we’ll explore support options together.
Rest & Recovery
Your body has done something extraordinary, now it’s time to heal, gently and intentionally. In the early weeks after birth, rest isn't a luxury, it's a necessity. Sleep may come in short intervals, but small moments of rest can make a big difference.
​​​
Dr. Rockson recommends:
-
Sleep when your baby sleeps: even short naps help your body recover.
-
Keep baby close: having a crib or bassinet nearby at night makes feedings easier and less disruptive.
-
Ask for help: allow family or friends to assist with meals, laundry, or looking after older siblings.
-
Move gently: short walks and light stretching (as advised) can boost circulation and lift your mood.
Recovery is not a race. Be kind to yourself. Your only job right now is to heal, bond and adjust, one day at a time.
Seeking Support - Lean on your village
Motherhood is beautiful and demanding.
You weren’t meant to do it all alone.
​
-
Let others help: accept that meal, let someone fold the laundry, say yes to rest
-
Share how you’re feeling : even a quick chat can lift the weight
-
Know that support is a strength, not a sign of weakness
​
Whether it’s your partner, a friend, a doula, or your doctor, allow yourself to be held, too.
You’re Not Alone. We’re Here.
​
Postpartum care isn’t just about your physical recovery it’s about your whole self.
If you have questions, concerns, or just need reassurance, contact Dr. Rockson. You're never a burden, you're a priority.