first 48 hours after birth · newborn · postpartum ·Oct 26, 2026

The First 48 Hours After Birth: What Nobody Tells You

We spend nine months preparing for the birth. Then baby arrives, and suddenly you're holding a tiny human, wearing a giant pad and wondering why nobody mentioned any of this.

I'm Chauntel, founder of MaternityBag. Before we start, one big, honest truth: everyone's first 48 hours are different. A quick vaginal birth, a long labour, a planned caesarean, an emergency one, a baby in special care, a baby who feeds like a champ, a baby who doesn't. There's no right way for this to look.

So think of this as "things that might happen", not "things that will". Take what's useful and leave the rest.

The first hour

If you and baby are both well, you'll usually be encouraged to have skin-to-skin straight away. Baby on your chest, a warm blanket over you both. Many babies will try for a first feed in this time.

You'll also deliver the placenta, and your midwife will check you over. You might shake uncontrollably for a while. That's a common reaction to hormones and adrenaline, and it passes.

If you've had a caesarean or baby needs extra care, this hour might look very different. That's okay. Skin-to-skin can happen lying down on your chest supervised and it's so special.

Your body: the honest bits

Bleeding. You'll bleed after birth, whether you had a vaginal birth or a caesarean. It's usually heavy at first, then eases over the following weeks. This is why you need proper maternity pads and or maternity disposable underwear, Lots of them.
Afterpains. Cramps as your uterus shrinks back down. They can be stronger while feeding, and often stronger again with a second baby. Ask your midwife about pain relief.
The first wee. It can sting. A squirt bottle of warm water while you go helps a lot. Midwives will usually want to know you've been.
The first poo. We're not going to pretend it isn't a big moment. Drink plenty of water and ask about stool softeners.
Night sweats. Your body is getting rid of extra fluid. You might wake up drenched. Pack a spare set of pyjamas.
Feeling sore everywhere. Labour is a workout. Your arms, back and legs might ache like you've run a marathon. Because in a way, you have.

After a caesarean

You'll usually be encouraged to get up and moving within the first day, slowly and with help. Hold a pillow against your tummy when you cough, laugh or sneeze. High-waisted undies and loose pyjama pants with a soft waistband will be your best friends.

Feeding: early days are learning days

In the first few days, you'll make a small amount of colostrum. It's concentrated and perfect for a newborn's tiny tummy.
Your milk usually "comes in" a few days after birth. Your breasts might feel full, hard and warm. Breast pads are a must.
Feeding can feel tricky at first, for both of you. Ask for help early and often. Midwives and lactation consultants are there for exactly this.
If you're bottle feeding, or combining both, that's a decision for you and your family. Fed is what matters.

This is why front-opening pyjamas make such a difference. [What to Wear in Labour, After Birth and for the Trip Home]

Your feelings

You might feel over the moon. You might feel numb. You might feel both within the same hour.

Many new mums have a teary day or two in the first week, often around day three to five as hormones shift. It's often called the "baby blues" and usually settles on its own.

If sadness, worry or feeling overwhelmed hangs around for more than a couple of weeks, or feels heavy, please talk to your midwife, GP or child health nurse. You can also call PANDA's National Helpline on 1300 726 306. Asking for help is a strong, smart thing to do.

Tell your midwife straight away if you:

Soak through a pad in an hour or pass large clots
Have a fever or feel shivery and unwell
Have severe pain that's getting worse, not better
Have a bad headache or changes to your vision
Notice redness, swelling or discharge around a wound or stitches
Feel something just isn't right

If you're at home and it's an emergency, call triple zero (000).

Little things that help

Limit visitors. A short visit from close family is lovely. A conga line of cousins is not.
Sleep when someone else is holding the baby. Not just when baby sleeps.
Eat and drink. Keep snacks and a big water bottle within reach, especially while feeding.
Shower. Even five minutes under warm water can make you feel human again.
Ask for help. From the midwives, your partner, your mum. Nobody gets a medal for doing this alone.

FAQs

How long will I bleed after birth? Bleeding is usually heaviest in the first few days, then gradually eases over several weeks. Tell your midwife if you're worried.

When does breast milk come in? Usually a few days after birth. Before that, you'll produce colostrum.

Is it normal to cry a lot after giving birth? Many mums feel teary in the first week. If it lasts more than a couple of weeks or feels heavy, talk to your GP or call PANDA on 1300 726 306.

How long will I stay in hospital? It depends on your birth and your hospital. Many people go home within one to two days after a vaginal birth, and a little longer after a caesarean.

This article is general information only and isn't medical advice. Always speak with your midwife or doctor about your own recovery. In an emergency, call 000.