You’ve probably heard all about birth plans, hospital bag checklists, and what to expect when labor begins. But what happens after that? Spoiler alert: there’s a whole new chapter waiting, and it’s called postpartum. And just like pregnancy and birth, it deserves some serious prep work.
Many of us spend months preparing for the day our baby arrives—reading up on labor, finding the right provider, setting up the nursery. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the excitement and anticipation of birth. But as soon as you hear that first cry, you’re thrust into a brand-new world of sleepless nights, physical recovery, and hormone overload. That’s why prepping for the postpartum period is a must, and here’s how you can get started.
The Fourth Trimester: What No One Told You
We often talk about pregnancy in trimesters, but the fourth trimester—the three months following birth—is just as essential. During this time, your body is healing, hormones are surging, and you’re adjusting to life with a new baby. Many moms feel blindsided by the realities of postpartum. The truth is, birth is just the beginning of a new phase where both your body and mind need extra care.
Why Postpartum Prep Matters
So, why do we need to prepare? The statistics speak for themselves: 88% of moms report feeling unprepared for postpartum life, and nearly all moms agree there isn’t enough support. From sleep deprivation to physical pain to mental health, postpartum recovery can be a whirlwind. But with a bit of foresight, you can go into it feeling more grounded and supported.
Steps to Prepare for Postpartum
Just as you wouldn’t step into labor without some level of preparation, try not to enter postpartum without a plan. Here are a few ways to start:
-
Create a Support System: You might feel like you can handle it all, but new motherhood is a time to embrace help. Line up friends and family who can assist with meals, household tasks, and maybe even childcare. Meal trains, grocery drop-offs, or a list of go-to takeout spots can be game-changers.
-
Get Clear on What You’ll Need: From nursing pads to belly bands, there are a few essentials you’ll want within arm’s reach. Make a “new mom toolkit” with items that support healing, like comfortable clothing, gentle skincare, and, yes, Fourth Haus belly bands to aid with postpartum support.
-
Set Realistic Expectations: Let’s get one thing straight: postpartum is not the time for perfection. The house might get messy, the laundry might pile up, and that’s okay. Focus on the basics—eating, sleeping, and bonding with your baby. Be kind to yourself and remember that you don’t have to do it all.
-
Prioritize Mental Health: Postpartum can come with unexpected emotions. Hormones shift, and the reality of caring for a newborn can be overwhelming. Talk to your partner, family, or a therapist if you’re struggling. It’s okay to ask for emotional support and even more than okay to reach out for help if things feel too heavy.
-
Take It Slow on Physical Recovery: From diastasis recti to c-section recovery, postpartum healing is a slow and personal process. Listen to your body, and give it time to rest. Products designed to support your recovery, like a Fourth Haus postpartum band, can make a difference as your body finds its way back.