Motherhood may be beautiful, but no one ever said it was easy. Moms’ bodies have to go through a lot to bring their little ones into the world. And although the postpartum period can be beautiful and full of newborn cuddles, this is also a time for recovery! Postpartum edema is one of the most common symptoms that moms experience after giving birth. This condition is nothing to worry about, but it can be uncomfortable for many mamas who have a new little one to take care of. Thankfully, there are a few straightforward remedies like maternity compression garments that help moms overcome postpartum edema. Learn more with Pumps for Mom!

What is postpartum edema?

Before learning how to address postpartum edema, moms should know exactly what this condition is! In general, edema refers to swelling that occurs due to excess water or fluid retention in bodily tissues. Therefore, postpartum edema is when moms’ bodies retain too much fluid in the days and weeks after giving birth. This condition is extremely common, and most moms notice the swelling in their feet, ankles, and legs. Postpartum edema can certainly be uncomfortable because the body has gone through a lot of changes after pregnancy, labor, and delivery. But thankfully, some simple remedies help moms get back to feeling their best and caring for their little ones.

Can maternity compression help postpartum edema?

Postpartum edema is one of the conditions that maternity compression garments are specifically designed for! The targeted compression offered in many postpartum recovery products promotes circulation and relieves swelling in commonly affected areas. Compression socks are well-known products that are especially effective for moms who experience edema in the legs and feet. Other postpartum recovery garments provide compression to promote circulation in the abdominal muscles and reduce swelling shortly after delivery. Work with Pumps for Mom, and our team may be able to help you receive these beneficial compression products for free with health insurance

What else can relieve postpartum edema?

In many cases, the body simply needs some time and gentle compression to get back to normal after nine months of pregnancy, plus labor and delivery. Many moms notice a natural improvement in postpartum edema within the first week or two after giving birth. Even though it feels counterintuitive, drinking water is one of the best ways to alleviate edema, especially for breastfeeding moms. When the body is dehydrated, it actually clings to water more and may make swelling worse. Moms can also engage in some light exercise to improve circulation and avoid standing for long periods of time to help relieve edema. 

 

Pumps for Mom is here to make motherhood easier. Our variety of breast pumps and compression products through insurance make it simple for moms to find the products they need. Plus, our maternity product specialists will help moms through every step of the process, from verifying prescriptions or insurance coverage to receiving an order confirmation and delivery. Explore our available products and qualify through insurance today!