5 Things I Wish I knew Postpartum

While mothers often spend months meticulously planning for their birth experience - from birth plans to hospital bags - many overlook the critical postpartum period. The first few weeks after birth are incredibly demanding, yet they typically receive far less attention during pregnancy preparation.

This oversight can lead to increased stress during a time when rest and recovery should be the priority. New mothers need to plan for practical support, meal preparation, and tools that will help them care for their newborn while taking care of themselves.

Creating a postpartum plan that includes support systems, essential items, and realistic expectations can be just as important as a birth plan - if not more so, since the postpartum period lasts much longer than delivery.

Nutrition is Important

When it comes to postpartum recovery, food is medicine! But you should not be cooking postpartum. Cook your nourishing meals in advance. 

You can also book a plan with a postpartum meal service like MotherBees. Plan with your partner, family and friends to help realize your nutrition recovery dreams.

Postpartum Retreat Centers

While postpartum retreats can be expensive, they often help put you in a position for the best recovery possible. Postpartum hotels typically cost between $800-$1,400 a night, so they are not for everyone.

Sleep and Rest

Of course, this is hard to come by when caring for a newborn but there are tricks to helping your baby sleep. A good sleep sack or swaddle like the Swaddelini can help your baby sleep better. It makes them feel secure like they did in the womb.

Help List

Preparing a postpartum support plan is essential for new mothers. Create a detailed task delegation list before your baby arrives. When friends and family offer assistance during the postpartum period, having a specific list of needs ensures effective support.

During the first few weeks after birth, mothers should focus exclusively on newborn care and recovery, delegating household responsibilities like meal preparation and cleaning to their support network. The postpartum period requires careful planning to ensure both mother and baby receive optimal care and attention. For guidance on creating an effective postpartum help list, view this comprehensive resource.

Protect Your Mental Space

For me that meant setting boundaries with family and friends.

My husband was the enforcer of these boundaries. I needed isolation to mentally and physically heal. Whatever you need to create this space- do it. The investment here will pay off in the long run.

Focusing on nutrition, rest, and mental health after childbirth can lower the risk of postpartum depression (PPD). This approach also has lasting benefits for the mother's mental health.

I used the recipes and practices outlined in "The first forty days" I highly recommend it! Now buy any 4 products and get this amazing book for FREE! Automatic discount!