The road to recovery

The first six months
'The main physical healing takes place over the first six weeks; the emotional over about six months,' says Zita West. 'The big factor in re-balancing hormones is how well rested and prepared for labour a woman was. I advise my patients to give up work at 32 weeks. So often they work until the last possible date, and give birth a week or so later, when they're still exhausted and unprepared.'

Not enough women get the rest they need. Baby and sleep-deprivation alone can drive you mad, without the hormonal cocktail thrown into the mix. Four months after the birth is when a lot of women experience really bad times, emotionally - the novelty has worn off, they're exhausted, and not so many people are rallying round, as they now see you as an experienced mum. Don't be afraid to ask for help - you still need it.

'You can also expect your weight to stabilise after six months. This, however, depends a lot on the woman and how hard she works at it - every woman is different,' says Zita. 'Breastfeeding will help shift pounds, too. Don't diet, though - low carb diets can leave you feeling exhausted. Adopt a healthy eating plan and sensible exercise programme. Accept that it may take 18 months for the body to be back to its pre-pregnancy state.'

Recovering after a caesarean

The first week: physically
If you had general anaesthesia, you'll feel groggy and possibly nauseated as you come round. The nausea can be relieved with medication, but may not subside completely until the anaesthesia wears off, which takes approximately 48 hours. You'll also be shown how to cough or do breathing exercises on a regular basis, to expand your lungs and clear them of any accumulated fluid, which decreases the risk of pneumonia. Be sure to use your hands or a pillow to support your incision when you cough (ditto sneezing and laughing).