Postpartum Recovery: 3 Months After Birth

What Hurts:

• You may have sore muscles from exercising—a little more than a month ago, you were given the OK to do any exercises you wanted.

What Works:

• You probably have had your first period by now if you are bottlefeeding.

What Doesn't Work:

• Your first period could be heavier, longer and different from those before pregnancy.

What Spells Trouble:

• You haven't done anything about contraception, unless you want to celebrate two birthdays in the same year.

It's OK If:

• You let baby cry when she's a little fussy and needs to soothe herself.

Don't Look Now, But . . .

• The pounds and inches aren't disappearing as quickly as you would like.

Remember to:

• Write down baby's milestones as they happen; write them in baby's book or keep a journal.

Call in the Troops:

• Look for things your partner can do to be involved in baby's care. Let him help out when he can.
• If you've stopped breastfeeding, let baby's dad give her a bottle.

Stop and Smell the Roses:

• About a year ago, you were just learning you were pregnant. Look how well you did!

Red Light, Green Light

• Red Light—Be careful about not using contraception or considering another pregnancy this soon.
• Green Light—Increase your exercise schedule.

Postpartum Recovery: 6 Months After Birth