How soon after giving birth can I travel?

The article is expertly consulted by Master, Doctor Le Nhat Nguyen - Obstetrician-Gynecology Specialist - Vinmec Danang International General Hospital.

Postpartum women often have to abstain from many things, one of which is to limit going out to protect the health of mother and child. However, some families not only wonder "how long can I go out after giving birth?", "Can I travel after giving birth?" is also a question of interest.

For most new mothers who don't have any complications and are recovering well, getting around shouldn't be too strenuous. Answer the question "how long after giving birth to walk normally?" Doctors recommend 1-2 weeks after vaginal birth and 3-4 weeks after caesarean section. But it is important at this stage to pay attention to the signs of the body, depending on the health of both mother and baby, the time to go out will be sooner or later.
Fortunately, complications - such as blood clotting, infection and bleeding, are rare, especially once 1-2 weeks have passed after giving birth. Complications specific to the cesarean section - including wound infection and cesarean delivery, are more likely to occur only in the first few days after delivery, and rarely appear at 6 weeks onwards. Sometimes a cesarean section can be very painful and tiring, so most doctors recommend waiting at least three to four weeks before starting to walk again after surgery.

Recovery from childbirth takes time, adequate rest, and supportive care from loved ones. Traveling or going out can be exhausting, and motion sickness can add to the fatigue you already experience. The first few weeks after giving birth are also full of emotional changes. Besides, breast milk usually takes a week to gradually stabilize production. Both newborn babies and breastfeeding women - especially first-time mothers, need time to get used to a new routine. If an episiotomy is required, vaginal discomfort can linger for a while, and too much, too forceful movement can make it worse.
On the other hand, it is not advisable to abstain for too long and be as strict as the teachings of the old people. This can cause the mother's body to become sicker and more lifeless. At the same time, the baby is also less exposed to the sun, breathing in the air to support blood circulation and synthesis of vitamin D, helping the skeletal muscles develop firmly.

Regardless of the type of travel you want to take part in, schedule it as gently as possible and stick to the same healthy habits as during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor about your travel plans before you go, and locate medical care on the road in case you need it. During your trip, remember:
Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration Wear comfortable clothes, but avoid drafts Stretch your legs often and walk around a bit (every hour if traveling by train or plane) to prevent blood clotting. The risk of blood clots usually increases in the weeks after giving birth. If your previous pregnancy has been quite complicated, bring a copy of your medical records just in case.

In short, how long after giving birth, you can go out and travel will depend on the health recovery status of the mother as well as the child. Mothers with weak health, often sick children should not go out early - on the contrary, mothers who recover quickly and strong children do not need to be too strict, they can go out when they feel healthy. However, the advice of doctors is that mothers should stay at least 3 weeks. This is just enough time for the baby and mother to adapt to the surrounding environment in the best way.

If you have any questions about the care and recovery of mothers after giving birth, please leave them in the "ASK DOCTOR VINMEC" section on the page.

Reference source: babycenter.com
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