Planning for Postpartum

Something we don't put much thought into, but really it should be our main focus during pregnancy, is planning for postpartum. We tend to focus and plan so much for birth because that is an important event, but compared to postpartum, it is a relatively quick part of the motherhood journey. Birth may take a few hours to a day or two, but once you are postpartum, you are always postpartum. So, why not plan for postpartum healing too? I, Dr. Elise, specialize in prenatal and postpartum care and I want to share with you some things to think about when you are planning for postpartum.

Postpartum can be a wild time and just like pregnancy, no two postpartum journeys are the same. The initial phase, directly after birth until baby is 3 months, can be the most challenging because you are physically healing and trying to care for another person. You may have heard that "it takes a village" to raise a child, and I would agree. However, the "village" may look a little different than what you would expect. You can think of this "village" as your postpartum support team and because postpartum is such a whirlwind, planning out a support team before you give birth can be super helpful.

When we think about planning for after birth, there are a few key players that can help you heal better. Having a list of providers that you have already picked can be immensely helpful in getting you the care you need fast. So here are some people you may want on your support team after giving birth.

Support for Mom:

Chiropractic care- why stop now? You need chiropractic care to continue to heal!

Lactation Consultant- breastfeeding is natural, but it is also really hard! Also, clogs and mastitis, have you heard of them?

Doulas- night and postpartum- Let them care for babe while you get sleep and heal!

Pelvic Floor PT- All new moms can benefit, even if you don't have "symptoms."

Mental Health Therapist- We all know Postpartum depression is real and effects so many people. Don't be ashamed to ask for help or just check in.

Nourishing foods- You are depleted and need replenishing!!

Massage Therapy- Healing and learning how to carrying baby outside of womb means lots of muscle tension.

Peer Support- Have family and friends help with errands/food, find a new mom support group.

Support for Baby:

Lactation- a good latch can make all the difference.

Chiropractic- baby went through their first stressful event! They need are now too.

Craniosacral Therapy- can be very helpful in tandem with chiropractic care.

Pediatric Dentist- because tongue ties exist.

Peds PT- great in tandem with chiropractic care to help with head preference, flat heads, or low tone to name a few.

Sleep consultant- Surprise! Babies need help learning how to sleep.

As a first time new mom, it is hard to plan for a time you have never experienced before. Motherhood is one of those rare events in your life that you truly have no idea how it will go. This is why planning for and learning as much as you can will really guide you through a smooth postpartum. This list may seem daunting or you may have no idea why some of these professionals are on the list, but during pregnancy is the best time to research and acquire names and information for these professionals in case you need them later.

Postpartum isn't just about baby, it is also about you! Do I need to remind you that birth is a very intense event that you also need to heal from? Make sure you take the time to plan at least the first 3 months (4th Trimester) after giving birth. This will make your start to motherhood so much better. Having a brand new baby can also put a huge amount of strain on your relationships, mostly with your partner. Knowing this ahead of time and planning out how the partner can be supportive can turn arguing and bickering into peaceful conversations. This can also limit resentment that might start to build.

Like I mentioned, once you are postpartum, you are always postpartum. Healing is a process and I like to remind my patients that it took about 9 months to grow your new baby, so it will take at least 9 months to heal. I know that we have a standard of thought that at 6 weeks we should be healed, but honestly that is just the start. But, now you are more prepared and ready to plan your postpartum journey too! I am here to help and of course give you fantastic postpartum chiropractic care!