Postpartum recovery is often misunderstood, with many people assuming it lasts just a few months when, in reality, it can take much longer. Today, we’re debunking five common myths about the postpartum journey and what you really need to know to care for yourself during this time.

Myth 1: Pregnancy Aches and Pains Disappear After Birth

Many new moms expect that once their baby is born, all the aches and pains from pregnancy will magically vanish. While lower back pain may improve, many women develop "nursing mother’s neck"—a form of tech neck caused by looking down at their baby while feeding, changing, and holding them.

💡 Try This:

• Be mindful of your posture—stack your ears over your shoulders to avoid unnecessary strain.

• After nursing, try the Face Wash Stretch to reset your posture and relieve tension.

Myth 2: It’s Normal for Babies to Be Constipated

It’s often said that breastfed babies don’t need frequent bowel movements, but what really matters is how comfortable they are when they do go.

Signs of Digestive Issues in Babies:

• Arching their back or tensing up when pooping.

• Crying, grunting, or excessive straining.

• Infrequent or painful bowel movements.

If a baby is constipated, their mom’s digestion may also be out of balance. By optimizing a mother’s gut health, we often see improvements in the baby’s digestion as well.

Myth 3: Colic and Fussiness Are Just Phases

Many parents assume that fussiness, colic, and trouble latching are just part of the newborn experience, but these symptoms can often be linked to spinal misalignment—especially if the baby had a C-section or assisted birth (forceps or vacuum delivery).

🩺 What You Can Do:

Have your baby checked by a certified pediatric chiropractor. You can find one through the ICPA website. Early adjustments can help optimize their comfort and development.

Myth 4: Postpartum Hair Loss Is Inevitable

Hair tends to grow thicker and healthier during pregnancy thanks to hormone shifts and prenatal vitamins, but many women experience hair loss around 4-5 months postpartum.

💡 What Helps:

• Keep taking prenatal vitamins and focus on nutrient-rich foods.

• Optimize digestion to absorb nutrients efficiently, rather than just increasing intake.

• Pay attention to gut health—constipation and poor digestion can contribute to hair loss.

Myth 5: You Can’t Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding

While breastfeeding can delay ovulation, it’s not a foolproof form of birth control. Many women assume they can’t conceive while nursing, only to be surprised by a second pregnancy sooner than expected!

💡 If you're not trying to conceive: Use additional family planning methods to ensure you’re in control of your reproductive health.

Final Thoughts

Postpartum recovery is a unique journey that lasts much longer than the so-called "fourth trimester." By addressing these myths, you can better support your body and feel your best as you navigate life with a newborn.

💬 What’s one postpartum myth you’ve heard? Drop it in the comments below!