Introduction
Many would describe the time after having a baby to be super exciting. There are so many new things that come along with having a baby that there is no way to be completely prepared. Whether you are a person who likes to plan, or you tend to be spontaneous, there are a few challenges that arise during the postpartum period that are quite unexpected. Even though you can’t prevent all the challenges, you CAN have a plan.
Why You Need a Postpartum Plan
During the postpartum recovery period, or the fourth trimester, you and your family will go through so many unpredictable changes. From adapting to your new sleep schedule to adjusting to changes in relationships, there are many challenges that may come up. Many times, the biggest challenge is trying to plan for how you will take care of yourself, your partner, or the rest of your family unit while you incorporate a new routine of taking care of a newborn. The main goal of this time is to be able to heal from childbirth and maintain your overall well-being all while experiencing one of the most impactful times of your life.
I truly believe that stressful moments are easier to manage if you have a solid plan. A postpartum doula is such a helpful resource to assist with creating a plan that works best for you holistically. We are trained to assess where you may need the most assistance and help tailor a plan to empower you to take charge of your postpartum experience.
Key Elements of a Postpartum Plan
Physical Recovery
The most important area to prioritize outside of the care of your newborn is your own physical recovery. There is a need to recover physically whether you have a c-section or a vaginal delivery. Recovery extends beyond your 6-week postpartum follow up visit. A major part of your recovery will include getting an appropriate amount of rest and a diet packed with the nutrients for healing. There is a certain level of planning necessary to ensure your physical needs are met even when you are focused on caring for your new baby.
Infant Care
Very similar to the postpartum period, babies can be unpredictable, as well. The day in the life of a caregiver to an infant will most likely include feeding (whether breastfeeding, bottle-feeding or exclusive pumping), diapering, bathing and a sleep schedule that works best for the parents and the baby. Since many things can quickly change as your baby grows, its beneficial to remain flexible and adjust your plan as needed.
Emotional and Mental Health Support
It’s important to recognize that postpartum depression and anxiety are very common and can affect anyone during the fourth trimester. Addressing these issues early on can positively impact your well-being, healing, and ability to care for your baby. Emotional support during this time ensures you have the resources you need to feel supported during the challenges that can occur with the postpartum period.
New parents should plan ways that they want to be supported emotionally during their postpartum journey. This will look different for every individual, but it could include tools such as counseling, online and in-person support groups, and regular check ins with a healthcare provider to discuss any mental health concerns.
Partner and Family Support
In the whirlwind of the postpartum journey, partners and family members can be your greatest allies. Involving them in your postpartum plan isn’t only about having extra hands, but about sharing the load and feeling supported. Open communication is key – talk about what you really need and don’t be afraid to let them know how they can help. You may want to take turns with night feedings, handling household chores, or just a shoulder to lean on and having a clear plan makes the transition smooth for everybody involved. Remember you don’t have to do it all alone and it is okay to advocate for yourself and ask for help!
Household Management
Managing household responsibilities with a newborn can feel like juggling a million things at once, but there are so many ways to make it easier. Meal prep before the baby arrives can be such a lifesaver. Also, tackling small cleaning tasks when you can or making sure someone is assigned to help with walks or feeding pets are other ways to make your transition easier. These are all things to consider when your family and friends are asking how they can help or something to keep in mind when interview postpartum doulas.
Your Postpartum Plan
During pregnancy, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, but starting your postpartum planning early can help reduce stress and set you up for a smoother transition. Involve your support network by clearly communicating your needs and expectations with your partner, family, and friends. Be realistic about what you can handle and remember that your plan doesn’t have to be rigid. Don’t forget to tap into the many resources available. Start planning today and build the plan you need to thrive during your postpartum journey!
