From Back Pain to Postpartum Fatigue: A Toolkit of Home Remedies for Mums

Hello wonderful mums and mums-to-be! This is the second segment of my speech at the Tegan Murphy Pregnancy and Postnatal Workshop, I'm thrilled to dive into practical solutions for common pregnancy discomforts. When I speak, my goal is to provide practical, usable tips that resonate with your journey. Today, let's explore simple and effective home remedies for those everyday pregnancy and post-natal challenges. Your well-being matters, and I'm here to share insights that can make your journey into Motherhood a bit more comfortable.

Pregnancy

So, you might be feeling some back pain, right? A warm compress with chamomile and lavender oil could be your new best friend. And if you're into it, a gentle massage might do wonders. Oh, and don't forget about magnesium – it's like magic for relaxing those muscles.

Now, who's dealing with a bit of heartburn and indigestion? Ginger tea is a superhero in the herbal world, and chamomile tea can be a soothing companion. Calcium-rich foods or supplements can also help neutralize that stomach acid.

Feeling a bit puffy? Dandelion tea could be your secret weapon – it's got this natural diuretic thing going on. And munch on some bananas; they're not just tasty; they help balance fluids with their potassium goodness.

Varicose veins making an appearance? loading up on vitamin C and bioflavonoids could give your veins some love.

Are leg cramps interrupting your beauty sleep? Try a cup of peppermint or chamomile tea before bedtime. And make friends with magnesium; it might reduce those nighttime leg surprises.

Shortness of breath got you feeling like you just ran a marathon? Eucalyptus oil in a diffuser or steam inhalation could help and don't forget about iron if you need it. 

Oh, the joys of frequent bathroom trips! Cranberry tea might lend a hand, and keep that hydration game strong. And, let's consider that caffeine – maybe a bit less could help ease the call of nature.

Are hemorrhoids causing some discomfort? Witch hazel pads or ointment could be a soothing choice. And, of course, fibre-rich foods and plenty of water are your allies against constipation.

Feeling the round ligament pain? Arnica gel might be your go-to, and remember to stay hydrated – it's like a secret weapon against discomfort.

Sleep disturbances? A cup of lavender or chamomile tea before bedtime could set the stage for some sweet dreams. And don't forget about calcium and magnesium – they're like the dynamic duo for a good night's rest.

Lastly, those Braxton Hicks contractions. Raspberry leaf tea is said to be a friend to the uterus. And of course, stay hydrated and keep up with your nutrition.

Postpartum

So, you've been dealing with postpartum fatigue, right? It's entirely normal, considering the joys and challenges of caring for a newborn. Consider adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha or rhodiola for an energy boost. And don't forget about the B-vitamins – they're like a superhero team for your energy levels.

Now, perineal pain and discomfort after vaginal delivery can be challenging. How about trying comfrey or calendula salves? They can work wonders when applied topically. And for that extra boost, consider arnica supplements or creams – they're known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

For those who had a cesarean section, recovery might be a bit more intense. Arnica and calendula creams could be your allies, aiding in wound healing. And don't skimp on vitamin C and zinc – they're like the dynamic duo for immune support and tissue repair.

Postpartum bleeding, also known as lochia, is entirely normal, but there are ways to support your body. Shepherd's purse or yarrow are herbs that may help tone the uterus and reduce bleeding. And don't forget about keeping your iron levels up – it's crucial for recovering from the blood loss.

Breast engorgement and pain are common, especially with increased milk production. Try cabbage leaf compresses or calendula salves for relief. And lecithin and specialised probiotics supplements might just be your secret weapon to prevent those pesky clogged milk ducts.

Nipple pain and cracking can make breastfeeding a bit challenging. Consider nipple creams with calendula or chamomile for soothing and healing. And for some extra care, lanolin ointments or vitamin E could be just what your nipples need.

Urinary incontinence is something many moms experience. Horsetail or nettle tea might offer some relief with their potential diuretic properties. And of course, pelvic floor exercises and staying hydrated are key.

Now, if postpartum depression or anxiety is something you're facing, you're not alone. While these are serious concerns that need professional attention, herbs like St. John's Wort or chamomile tea might offer a bit of calming support. And don't forget about omega-3 fatty acids and B-vitamins for mental well-being. Research suggests a link between elevated CRP levels, a marker of inflammation, and an increased risk of mood disorders postpartum. Making anti-inflammatory food vitally important. 

Hair loss is a common postpartum woe. Consider nettle or horsetail tea for their nutrient-rich properties. And for some extra TLC, biotin and iron supplements might give your hair a boost.                                                                                                      

Joint pain can be bothersome postpartum. Turmeric or ginger, either in your meals or as supplements, could help with their anti-inflammatory properties. And don't forget about omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D for overall joint health.

Hemorrhoids, the unwelcome guests. Witch hazel pads or aloe vera gel might bring some relief. And keep up with that fibre-rich diet and water intake – it's the natural way to prevent constipation.

Dealing with diastasis recti? Gotu kola might be worth considering for its potential support in collagen formation. And of course, core-strengthening exercises and collagen-rich foods are excellent additions to your postpartum routine.

Constipation is another postpartum challenge. Senna or dandelion tea, used cautiously, might help with bowel movements. And let's not forget about a diet rich in fiber and probiotics for a happy gut.

Finally, for those facing changes in the menstrual cycle, chaste tree (Vitex) tea might help regulate hormones. Keep up with a balanced diet, focusing on iron and vitamin B12 for overall well-being.