The Power of Postpartum Preparation: Why It Matters

The postpartum period is one of the most transformative, yet challenging, times in a woman’s life. So much attention is given to preparing for the birth itself, but it’s just as essential to prepare for the time that follows. The right support, care, and resources can significantly impact your mental, physical, and emotional well-being as you transition into motherhood.

My Own Journey: From Unaware to an Empowered Postpartum

When I had my first baby, I was not prepared for what postpartum would really be like. I didn’t have a community, I hadn’t done the research, and I didn’t understand how essential it was to truly honor my recovery period. Thankfully, I had a lot of support from my family—my mum stayed with us for two weeks, and our midwife checked in on me regularly. I even had access to the La Leche League, which became invaluable when breastfeeding issues arose. But even with this support, my experience was challenging, mostly because I didn’t understand the full importance of rest and recovery for my body and mind. I didn’t yet know how essential honoring this period would be. I hadn’t even heard of Matrescence.

By the time I had my second baby, I had found my tribe. I had a beautiful birth blessing with a group of strong women, and they rallied around me post-birth with a meal train, helping me care for my toddler and providing the support I needed. My mum also arrived for two weeks to help around the house. This time, postpartum felt smoother, but I still had a lot to learn about the power of intentional rest and honoring my body during recovery.

By the third birth, things shifted. I had done my doula training and had developed a deep understanding of the sacredness of the postpartum period. This time, I committed to a strict 40-day recovery plan. One week in bed, one week on the bed, one week around the bed, and one week in the bedroom. Staying at home for 40 days wasn’t easy, especially in a culture that doesn’t encourage such rest, but it was transformative. With a meal train, family support, childcare, cleaning help, simple self care practices, I was able to truly focus on nourishing myself physically, emotionally, and mentally.

Why You MUST Prepare for Your Postpartum

1. Physical Recovery

Your body goes through significant changes after childbirth, and whether you have a vaginal delivery or a cesarean, recovery can be physically demanding. By planning ahead—arranging help with meals, housework, and organizing a postpartum doula—you can make your recovery smoother and less overwhelming.

2. Emotional Support

The postpartum period is a hormonal and emotional rollercoaster—from joy and excitement to exhaustion and moments of doubt. Having a strong support system in place is essential for emotional well-being. Whether it’s family, friends, or a professional like a doula, emotional support can make a world of difference in reducing feelings of isolation and anxiety.

3. Mental Health & Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression and anxiety are real and common struggles that many face. Investing in postpartum care—whether it’s through therapy, doulas, or support groups—can help identify early signs of mental health struggles, reducing the risk of long-term issues.

4. Confidence and Empowerment

The postpartum period can feel overwhelming, especially the first time. Preparing for it in advance—whether by gathering information on breastfeeding, co-sleeping, or having a doula in place—empowers you to feel confident and ready. This sense of preparedness can help reduce stress and make the transition into motherhood more manageable.

How to Invest in Your Postpartum Care

1. Hire a Postpartum Doula

A postpartum doula offers invaluable support during the early weeks. They provide nourishment, physical help with household tasks, emotional reassurance, support with breastfeeding and baby. Having someone there for you to be seen, heard and held can bring a tremendous sense of relief.

2. Create a Support Network

Having a network of family, friends, and local parenting groups can provide a safety net. Whether it’s someone to help with errands or just a listening ear, knowing you have support makes all the difference.

3. Prioritize Self-Care

Postpartum recovery isn’t just about physical healing. It’s about emotional and mental health, too. Make time for self-care, even in small ways, and rest when you need it. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so nurturing yourself is crucial.

4. Prepare in Advance

Before your baby arrives, take the time to prepare. Stock up on postpartum essentials, organize a meal train, and arrange for extra help with household tasks. When you plan ahead, you can focus more on bonding with your baby and nourishing yourself, rather than scrambling to take care of everything else.

Your Postpartum Journey Matters

Just as much as you prepare for birth, it’s crucial to prepare for postpartum. The right preparation will ensure you have the support you need to recover physically, emotionally, and mentally. By investing in postpartum care, you’re investing in your own well-being and the well-being of your family.

The postpartum period can be a time of deep connection, growth, and healing when it’s supported by the right people and practices.

Remember: You deserve to be supported. You deserve to honor your body, mind, and heart as you transition into motherhood.

So, prepare for your postpartum journey with the same care and attention you give to your birth—and reap the benefits of a truly nourished and supported transition into this next chapter of life.