Week 3 postpartum
In short: what happens in week 3 postpartum?
In week 3 postpartum bleeding is light and yellowish-white, and your womb keeps shrinking. Many babies have a growth spurt now and feed more often; this does not mean you don’t have enough milk. Recognising the signs of postnatal depression, starting Kegel (pelvic floor) exercises and taking short walks are this week’s priorities.
Week 3 postpartum – animated guide
Week 3 (days {from}–{to}): the postpartum dial, womb, postnatal bleeding and your baby’s development (illustrative animation).
Mum
Your energy slowly returns, although night waking keeps you tired. If you leak urine, Kegel exercises strengthen your pelvic floor.
Your baby today
Your baby starts to gain around 150–200 g a week. Awake periods get longer and they gaze at faces for longer.
Feeding and nutrition
During a growth spurt your baby may feed very often for 1–3 days; feeding on demand boosts your supply. Redness in the breast with a fever may be a sign of mastitis.
Emotions and rest
If you constantly feel unhappy, worthless or unable to bond with your baby, ask for help; postnatal depression is treatable.
Check-ups
Even if no check is planned this week, you can contact your doctor or midwife about feeding problems or emotional difficulties.
Tips for today
- Do your Kegel exercises 3 times a day
- Keep track of wet nappies (6 or more a day)
- Ask visitors to wash their hands
- Give yourself a short break every day
When to seek medical help
Seek help straight away if you have a hard, red, painful area on your breast with a fever, thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, or a painful swelling in one leg.
Postpartum week by week
Bleeding, Colostrum and Milk
Womb Shrinking, Cord Falling Off
Growth Spurt and Emotional Health
Bleeding Easing, First Month
Exercise, Sex and Contraception
The 6-Week Check and Day 40
Frequently asked questions
Why is my baby suddenly feeding so often?
Because of the growth spurt around weeks 2–3; frequent feeding increases your supply and things usually settle within a few days.
When can I go out after giving birth?
You can take short walks when you feel well; avoid crowded indoor places in the first weeks.
How do I do Kegel exercises?
Squeeze your pelvic floor muscles as if stopping a wee, hold for 5–10 seconds and relax; do 10 repetitions, 3 times a day.
How common is postnatal depression?
It affects around 10–15% of mothers; with early recognition and treatment, women recover.
Postnatal care at SoftCare Clinic
Book an appointment with our specialist doctors for a postnatal check, breastfeeding problems, a stitch or wound check, or support with postnatal depression.
The information on this page is general guidance for an uncomplicated postpartum period and does not replace a medical examination. Heavy bleeding, fever, breathlessness, chest pain, or thoughts of harming yourself or your baby are emergencies: call your local emergency number (999 / 911 / 112).
Medical content editor: Op. Dr. Şükrü Sanus