Dreading the first trip to the bathroom after birth? Worried about what those stitches mean for the weeks ahead? This calm, practical guide walks you through everything that happens when your body repairs itself after a vaginal birth — from the first swollen hours to the day you feel like yourself again. Written in plain, reassuring language, it explains the different kinds of tears and episiotomies, how to keep your stitches clean, how to manage pain and swelling, and what actually helps when you're scared to wee or poo. You'll learn the signs of infection or wound breakdown that need urgent care, and the gentle techniques — from peri bottles to pelvic floor exercises — that support healing. There's honest guidance on sex, intimacy, and body image, plus advice on when to seek physiotherapy or further help. However your birth unfolded, and whatever your stitches look like, this book treats your recovery with the care it deserves. Part of The Pregnancy Companion Library.