Let’s Talk Postpartum Taboos
Constipated, losing hair & sweating through your PJs?
New mothers are often surprised by what actually goes on with their bodies in the early days after having a baby. It’s likely such a mystery because many things new mothers experience postpartum may be considered “TMI” or taboo to discuss openly. That has to change!
No matter how seemingly awkward it may be to talk about your first bowel movement after labor, how much hair you’ve lost since having your baby, or even how much you sweat at night, it’s important that these conversations happen! We hope that this helps new mothers feel seen, supported, and less alone in these very common postpartum experiences.
Constipation
— Experienced by 60%+ of postpartum women
Why does this happen?
During pregnancy, your digestive organs shift to make room for your baby. After birth, these organs migrate back to their normal (i.e., non-pregnant) position. This internal reorganization can cause constipation. For some women, discomfort from tearing, stitches, hemorrhoids, or even just the idea of pushing shortly after birth can also make bowel movements more challenging.
What can you do?
Stay hydrated to support proper digestion and soften stool. Breastfeeding also increases hydration needs, so keep that in mind.
Eat healthy fats to lubricate the bowels and promote bile flow.
Prioritize probiotics and fermented foods to support a healthy gut microbiome and digestion.
Magnesium citrate draws water into the bowels, relaxes muscles, and eases intestinal tension.
Slippery elm bark powder is a demulcent that forms a soothing layer over mucous membranes, helping stool pass more easily. Try 1600mg with water before bed.
Focus on constipation-relieving foods like non-starchy vegetables, berries, stone fruits, lentils, beans, almonds, coconut flour, avocado, chia seeds, and ground flaxseeds.
Hair loss
— Experienced by 40–50% of postpartum women
Why does this happen?
During pregnancy, higher levels of estrogen prevent your hair from shedding at its normal rate. This often leads to thicker, fuller hair. When estrogen levels drop postpartum, that extra hair begins to fall out.
What can you do?
Silica is a mineral that can support re-growth. It can be taken orally or applied topically to the scalp.
Wheatgrass contains silica and also helps the liver process excess postpartum hormones.
Biotin supplementation has been shown to support hair growth, particularly in those who are deficient.
Collagen supports healthy hair, skin, and nails.
Omega-3s can promote hair thickness and healthy growth.
Night sweats
— Experienced by 33%+ of postpartum women
Why does this happen?
Your body retains excess fluids during pregnancy, which begin releasing after you’ve given birth. Combined with shifting hormones, this makes night sweats a common postpartum symptom. You may notice increased sweating during the day as well, but it’s often more intense overnight. Those who received IV fluids during labor, especially for an extended time, may experience more pronounced night sweats as well.
What can you do?
Sleep on a towel or sheet protector to stay more comfortable. Keeping a dry pair of PJs nearby can also help.
Though it may seem counterintuitive, staying well-hydrated is key to restoring balance and supporting your body’s postpartum needs — especially if you’re breastfeeding.
Replenish with electrolytes to replace those lost through sweat.
Hemorrhoids
— Experienced by 68%+ of postpartum women
Why does this happen?
The growing weight of the baby during pregnancy, coupled with the pressure of pushing during birth, contributes to the prevalence of postpartum hemorrhoids.
What can you do?
Soak in a sitz bath of warm water and Epsom salt for 10–30 minutes at a time, 1–3 times per day.
Apply witch hazel to the area using a soaked cotton pad. These can also be soothing to use after a bowel movement in place of toilet paper, which may be irritating.
Russet potatoes have strong astringent properties that can reduce inflammation and soothe discomfort. To help shrink external hemorrhoids, wash, peel, and grate the raw potato. Lie on your side and press the grated potato onto the area for at least 20 minutes, though 1–2 hours is ideal.
Let’s help new mothers navigate postpartum with confidence
When we talk about the real experiences of early motherhood, we help women feel seen and supported.
Become a Certified Nutrition Consultant and help guide new mothers with knowledge and care during one of life’s most transformative seasons.
Together, we can create a necessary shift in the culture and change the conversation around postpartum.
