Giving birth causes numerous changes in your body. Many of them are prompted by a drop in levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone shortly after delivery. This is a normal process, but it's good to know what you can expect and even better to know that these conditions are only temporary.

In addition to experiencing the effects of pregnancy on your breasts, uterus, and urinary tract, you may notice subtle changes in your hair and skin. During pregnancy, many women find that their hair becomes particularly thick and lustrous and does not shed at the usual rate. After delivery, hormonal shifts may increase shedding and your hair may thin out. Changes in the fluid balance of your body can also cause dryness of the hair and skin. You can help combat this by drinking 8 glasses of water each day and avoiding harsh shampoos and cleansers.

You may also notice that you are perspiring more. Again, this is usually not a cause for concern. You are simply sweating out the additional fluids associated with pregnancy. This heavy perspiration will probably stop after a few weeks. Until then, wear loose clothing and consider placing a towel over your pillow at night to keep it dry.

Some of the changes you experience at this time will be welcome. The stretch marks you may have developed during pregnancy will begin to fade, changing from red to pale silver. Your darkened nipples will lighten, and the spidery lines you may have developed on your chest and shoulders will fade as well.

It is normal to drop about 4.5 kg to 9 kg (10–20 lb) immediately after delivery. The rest of your pregnancy weight gain will be lost gradually. Of course, the best way to get back into top shape is through a program of good nutrition and exercise.