The entire pregnancy and birthing process is an emotional experience in more than one way. The joy of carrying a tiny new human, the pains associated with it, and all the hormones in flux can really make the entire experience an emotional rollercoaster. Once the baby is born, the emotional ride isn’t quite over. Taking care of yourself postpartum is part of the recovery process.

To help you out, we have some tips to help you care for yourself post-baby.

Get Help

You don’t have to do this alone. Talking to your spouse, a counselor, or some other trusted person can be a strength in a time when you’re at your weakest. Don’t feel like you have to be back in action as soon as you’re home from the hospital, either. Have people help out around the house, making meals, with your older children, and running errands.

Rest

Recovery takes rest, and that’s no exception for postpartum.

You’re going to be up a lot in the night with your crying baby, so getting rest when you can will help your body and mind function more smoothly. One way to do this is to keep your baby’s bed close to yours, so when nighttime feedings happen, you don’t have to go very far.

Eat Well

Your body has been through a lot, so it’s important to feed yourself properly to aid in recovery as well as help give you strength. You are encouraged to eat when you’re hungry, even if you’re so tired it’s difficult to even process getting something to eat. Make sure you’re getting adequate food from the recommended food groups from myplate.gov: grains, vegetables, fruits, dairy, and protein.

See a doctor

A high percentage of new mothers feel negative emotions after childbirth.

This is normal. If your “baby blues” lasts more than two weeks, however, this is moving into the realm of postpartum depression, and medical treatment should be sought. Many new parents also experience feelings of harming their baby. While these feelings are common, seeking medical assistance is also important should you be experiencing these thoughts.

We can help

At New River Women’s Health, we want you to enjoy your new baby.

Please contact us if you need assistance. We are happy to help.

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