Preparing for Your Postpartum

"The Importance of Postpartum Support" In this blog post, we will explore the significance of postpartum support for new parents. The journey of becoming a parent is a beautiful and transformative experience, but it can also be overwhelming and challenging, especially during the postpartum period. This is why having the right support system in place is crucial.

TOP TIPS ON PREPARING FOR THE BEST POSTPARTUM JOURNEY

1. Have a support network: midwife, doula, family or friends

2. Accept help: allow friends and family to assist with more than just cuddling your baby

3. Limit visitors: especially in the early days. This helps better establish breastfeeding and reduce the overwhelm

4. Meal Prep or Meal Delivery Service: This can save you time and energy, allowing you to focus on your baby and yourself. Stock up on healthy snacks that are easy to grab, as these can be convenient during busy days.

5. Self-care: prioritize self-care, even if it's just for a few minutes each day. This could include a shower, or simply taking a breath outside, it does not have to be a huge thing.

6. Let go of perfectionism: accept that you may not be able to do everything. Focus on the most important tasks

7. Communicate with Your Partner: Communicate openly with your partner about your needs and feelings. Share responsibilities and support each other.

8. Find Your Village: Connect with other new parents who are going through similar experiences. Sharing your thoughts and feelings can be therapeutic. Online forums, local parenting groups, or classes can be great places to find support.

9. Professional Support: If you find yourself struggling with stress, anxiety, or postpartum depression, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Therapists, counselors, and support groups are available.

Postpartum support refers to the assistance and guidance provided to parents after the birth of their baby. It encompasses emotional, physical, and practical support to help parents navigate the early days and weeks of parenthood. While the focus is often on the well-being of the baby, it is equally important to prioritize the well-being of the parents. One of the key aspects of postpartum support is the presence of a knowledgeable and compassionate professional, such as a midwife. A midwife can offer valuable expertise and guidance on topics such as breastfeeding, newborn care, and postpartum recovery. They can address any concerns or questions that parents may have, providing reassurance and peace of mind.

If you plan a home birth or are in Midwifery Group Practice, you typically receive up to 6 weeks of ongoing postnatal care after birth. Hospital systems in Australia birthing publically or privately typically have less capacity. Consider a private midwife for postnatal care only to receive extra support in this critical time to improve your breastfeeding outcomes and reduce postnatal depression and anxiety.

A postnatal doula is an excellent resource to receive practical and emotional support. They can offer support such as newborn care, assisting with bathing, feeding time and changing nappies, making meals and snacks, occupying other children, assist with debriefing your birth story, and providing emotional support as needed. Additionally, family and friends support can involve practical assistance with household chores, meal preparation, and errands. This can help alleviate the stress and exhaustion that often accompany the early days of parenthood and the expectation of lots of visitors. Having someone to lend a helping hand allows parents to focus on bonding with their baby and taking care of their own well-being. You can prepare for your postpartum during pregnancy. This might involve education and resources to help parents navigate the challenges of early parenthood, such as classes on newborn care, breastfeeding, and postpartum self-care. By equipping parents with knowledge and skills, they can feel more confident and prepared to care for their baby.

Whether it's through private at-home classes, virtual sessions, or group sessions, we are here to offer the support and guidance you need. Our registered midwife is passionate about improving the experiences of parents through their birthing journey and is committed to providing valuable resources and support. Contact us today to learn more about our postpartum support services and how we can help you have a good birth experience.