Kareena Kapoor becomes a mommy! Here's what first-time mother's should expect post-delivery and precautionary measures they should take

Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan welcomed their first baby today. (Image courtesy: Manish Malhotra/Instagram/@manishmalhotra05)

New Delhi: Ever since the news of her pregnancy broke, Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan's fans and well-wishers have been waiting in anticipation for the arrival of their bundle of joy.

On December 20, Bollywood's royal couple welcomed their first-born to the world amidst loads of excitement and happiness.

It goes without saying that first-time mommy Kareena has carried herself with utmost aplomb throughout her pregnancy, but it is of equal importance for first-time mothers to know and be aware of the changes that a woman's body goes through after delivery and how they should look after themselves.

A mother's post-partum period is one of the most essential phases in a woman's life. During this stage, your body tends to develop its own requirements which need to be fulfilled for you to return to a normal lifestyle.

Starting right from the moment after the baby is delivered till the time you return to your pre-pregnant state, the entire duration of your post-partum period should be invested on yourself completely.

Since we spoke about changes that your body may go through during this time, let us warn you beforehand what you may feel.

Physical changes

• Constipation problems
• Sore breasts
• Hemorrhoids (blood clot)
• Hot and cold flashes
• Urinary incontinence.
• Weight loss

Emotional changes

• Baby blues
• Postpartum depression
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Mood swings
• Guilt
• Prolonged periods of sadness

Furthermore, there are two primary precautions every first-time mother should take post-delivery.

Adequate rest:

Your baby's health and care undoubtedly comes first, but your health requires equal attention, since you need to be physically strong to tend to its constant needs and for that, you need to take ample rest.

For that, relieve yourself from all caring duties for the first few weeks, except for feeding your baby. During this time take ample rest and care of yourself.

Since your baby will have a body clock of their own, try to adapt to their cycle and make sure their bed or cot is next to your bed. This will save your time and energy.

Do some light exercises like walking or some light stretches to maintain the easy of your body. However, make sure you do it under professional supervision and after consulting your doctor and whatever you do, make sure you do not compromise on your rest. If you feel tired, don't hesitate to excuse yourself even if there are guests around, which will evidently happen.

Self-nourish:

Your body needs time to heal after you deliver your baby. Once again, this is due to all the bodily changes, which you need to get accustomed to, which is why you require proper nutrition.

Your body needs time to recover and more than that, it needs strength. Pile up on proteins, vitamins and calcium by consuming fruits, vegetables and lean meats. Don't worry too much if you gain a little weight – eat when you are hungry. Listen to your body, since it will help your body fight and pave the path to a quick and smooth recovery.

Take care!