Perineal Wound Breakdown
NICE guidelines on Postnatal care – section 1.2.15-22 outlines the guidance that should be followed for perineal health including perineal wound breakdown.
Valley Cushion hire – I hired this cushion for around 6 weeks. It has two sections on the side that you inflate so that your perineum is supported but not touching any uncomfortable surfaces. Without this cushion, I wouldn’t have been able to continue breastfeeding. Some local NCT groups hire the cushions so it worth checking if this is available in your area.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Why Mums Don’t Jump Podcast – A fantastic podcast covering all things prolapse and pelvic health.
NICE guidelines on Urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse in women: management – provides guidance on the assessment and management of pelvic organ prolapse.
NICE guidelines on Pelvic floor dysfunction: prevention and non-surgical management – provides guidance on pelvic floor exercises and the use of pessaries for prolapse.
POGP patient resources: the Pelvic, Obstetric and Gynaecological Physiotherapy network has a wealth of prolapse related resources ranging from patient guides to advice on pessaries.
Birth trauma & PTSD
PaNDAS Foundation – A charity providing support for those affected by perinatal mental health.
Birth Trauma Association – A fantastic organisation with a busy Facebook support group. The ‘Parents’ section contains lots of really useful information on how to request your hospital notes, how to make a complaint and a list of counsellors who specialise in this area.
Misc
The Breastfeeding Network – the drugs fact sheets provide information on medication that you can take whilst breastfeeding including painkillers, anaesthetics, antibiotics and antidepressants.