So, you’ve just given birth and instead of basking in a magical newborn glow, you find yourself shaking like you’re naked in the middle of a Minnesota snowstorm—or perhaps like your bed is having its own mini-earthquake. Don’t worry; this is a common experience, and here’s what you need to know.

What’s With The Shaking?

Here’s the deal:

• Postpartum Shaking: Legs jittering, teeth chattering, and the bed vibrating—sounds like an over-the-top movie scene, right?
• When It Happens: Usually within the first half hour after giving birth.

Why Does It Happen?

Let’s break it down:

• Mythbusters: It’s not just about epidurals or medications. Research shows:
  • About 20% of people who give birth without medications experience shaking.
  • About 50% of those with epidurals and cesarean births also shake.
• Temperature Isn’t the Culprit: Research also shows that shaking is not related to thermo-regulatory issues like temperature drops in the room.

The Real Deal: Stress Release

What if I told you that your shaking might be your body’s way of shaking off the stress? Think of it like this: when an antelope escapes a lion, it does a little shimmy and then walks away like nothing happened. It’s not just to look cool—it’s actually releasing all that built-up stress. Similarly, your body is shaking to release the stress and trauma of childbirth.

This shaking is known as a neurogenic tremor. It’s like your body’s way of hitting the reset button. Interestingly, this is actually used in treatments for PTSD called TRE (Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises). It’s like giving your body permission to let go of the stress.

Embracing the Shake

Imagine a world where instead of rushing to suppress the shakes, we let them happen. What if, after birth, we didn’t bundle you up in a hundred blankets or try to stop the shaking with medication? What if we just allowed it to happen, supported you through it, and took care of the baby for a bit so you could focus on shaking off that stress? Sounds a bit wild, but it might just be what your body needs.

For those undergoing a cesarean, especially in emergency situations, the shaking might be more pronounced due to the higher degree of trauma your body goes through. It’s not just about the incision; it’s about your body dealing with a significant shift and stress.

What You Can Do:

Here are some tips to help manage and understand postpartum shaking:

• Recognize It: Understand that this shaking is a normal part of your body’s stress response.
• Allow It: Embrace the shaking as a natural way your body is resetting.
• Seek Support: If it feels overwhelming or prolonged, talk to a healthcare professional for guidance and support.

Final Thoughts

Postpartum shaking might feel like a wild ride, but it’s your body’s way of dealing with the intense experience of childbirth. Embrace the shakes, support your body through them, and remember that this too shall pass.

You’re not alone in this—support is available, and we’re here to help you through every step. Whether you’re planning for the postpartum period or currently navigating it, we’re here to help. Reach out to us on our contact page! Here’s to shaking it off and moving forward!

We’re here for you,

Dr. Haggerty