I think the picking up thing is different for everyone... as I physically couldn't pick up Paris without getting out of bed and it really hurt for the first 12 hours to get out of bed. I needed help and unfortunately I wasn't getting it. I had a REALLY bad experience with one midwife and it ended in me doing hospital in the in home. But I don't think that experience is the norm. So don't let my experience worry you, if you do need help to pick up bubs just make sure you make that clear and I'm sure they'll give you the help you need. And it can be a question you ask in case it depends on hospital policy.

*hugs*
Cailin