Whether you are a first-time parent or you have gone through childbirth many times, the postpartum period for mothers can be challenging, chaotic, and overwhelming. The postpartum period is the first six weeks following childbirth. During these first few weeks, everyone in your household will be adjusting to a lot of new things.
Sleep schedules may be out of whack, and you might be getting less quality time with your significant other and/or your other children. It is going to take some time for you to feel like your usual self again so give yourself some grace as you navigate this new phase of life. Please don’t stress – you will figure it all out and fall into a new routine eventually!
Tips to Take Care of Yourself
- As a new mother, it is important to follow all doctor’s orders. Don’t miss appointments and make sure to bring up any concerns you have about your own health to your doctor. Your physical health is important and plays a large role in this postpartum period.
- Take the help! Whether it be from a family member, friend, community organization, or neighbor, there are people around you that want to help. Help can look like taking care of the baby so you can rest, cleaning up your house, running errands for you, or playing with any older kids in the home.
- Sleep as much as you can. I know this seems impossible but get some much-needed rest. Maybe you sleep when the baby is napping or take a nap when someone else can watch the baby.
- Eat healthy. The food we eat powers our body and impacts our mood. Be sure to work whole grains, fruits, and protein into as many meals as you can. Make sure to drink enough water as well. If you are dealing with postpartum constipation, add some extra fiber to your diet.
- Get some fresh air. If you can, get out for a walk – even take the baby! Not only does this break up the monotony of the day, but you get your body moving and connect with the outside world.
Resources in Kent County
- Join a parent support group! This may be a breastfeeding group, a single mom/dad group, a mom/dad of multiples group, or a first-time parent support group. There are so many options, and our Family Support Navigators are here to help you find a group that is right for you. To browse a list of groups in the community, click here: Grand Rapids Parenting Support Groups. We highly recommend the Postpartum Support Group with HELP Pregnancy Aid!
- Give yourself some space to feel whatever comes up throughout the day. You may be frustrated and overwhelmed one minute and completely relaxed the next. That’s okay and completely normal! Remind yourself that you are human, and your feelings are valid. This little human is completely reliant on you and that can be beyond overwhelming at times. It is okay to admit you are having a hard time or don’t like all aspects of parenting.
- Schedule a session or two with a therapist. Therapy is a great space to work through any fears or emotions that come up during this postpartum season. It also will help you work towards balanced and healthy parenting skills. Here’s an AMAZING list of postpartum resources from our friends at MomsBloom: Kent County Postpartum Resources.
Having postpartum support as a parent cannot be stressed enough. By taking care of yourself first, you are taking care of your whole family! Reach out to a Family Support Navigator at navigation@familyfutures.net or contact us with any questions or concerns as we would LOVE to help you establish a postpartum support plan.
