5 Postpartum Recovery Strategies Every Birthing Parent Should Consider:
You’re expecting - Congrats on your exciting news! While it's natural to feel a bit overwhelmed, rest assured that there are actions you can take to make the transition smoother. Here are five practical strategies that will make a big difference when you're welcoming your little one, allowing you to not just survive but THRIVE during this special time!
1. Build a Support Network: Parenting isn't about perfection; it's about connection. Accepting support from loved ones can deepen your relationships and make the journey more enjoyable. Don't be afraid to ask for help. It’s a common misconception that being a “good mom” means doing everything ourselves and that couldn’t be further from the truth. The saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child - actually, it takes a village to support new parents. Let your community show up for you and give you the support you need and deserve.
2. Establish Chore Equity: Who does most of the stuff around your house right now? Chances are, that’s the person who’s also growing the new human in their belly. If you’re resting and bonding with your baby, who’s going to do all the “stuff”? Gosh, I wish there was a “cleaning fairy” who arrived when the baby did! Since this isn’t our reality, this is the perfect ti
3. Take Postnatal Vitamins: These vitamins are just as important postpartum as they were during pregnancy. Growing, birthing, and nursing can leave you depleted of essential nutrients, so keep taking those "prenatal" vitamins. They’re actually formulated by looking at the nutritional needs across the pregnancy and postpartum period. Would you believe that our nutritional needs are great in the postpartum period?? Shocking, but true!
4. Build a Resource Roladex: Did you know that new parents on average lose over 600 hours of sleep in the first year of their baby’s life? You'll probably be in a bit of a mental haze. Think about what you might want / need NOW and gather that information. Ideas might include: new parent meetup group days / times / cost, lactation consultant, online mental health support groups (Postpartum Support International has so many of these), babysitters info, etc. Invest and gather this info now, before the fog sets in. :)
5. Manage Stress Levels: Learning new skills and navigating new relationship dynamics while healing and sleep deprived can lead to high stress levels. Create a list of activities that have worked for you in the past, and prioritize regular self-care.
Interested in more guidance? Join us for a "Beyond the Birth" workshop and create a custom 4th trimester plan for a smoother transition physically, emotionally, mentally, and in your relationships.
Comments