30/04/2021
Postnatal care is so important because as the saying goes, āyou cannot pour from an empty cupā. In creating a simple postpartum plan with your partner or birth support person, it can help you feel more prepared and supported. Here are some things you might like to considerā¦
ā Visitors? Who would you feel most comfortable with at your most vulnerable? Maybe you prefer not to have visitors in the first few days or week? Are there boundaries worth discussing?
ā Allow family and friends to help. When you are in the throes of caring for a baby during those initial days, you have little time for anything and often feel unable to think beyond caring for the baby. So, it can be worthwhile to think ahead of time what you may appreciate from family and friends.
ā Batch cook and freeze food. You can set up a meal rota and get family and friends to deliver food. If you have a particular favourite meal, then do let them know. (they would love to treat you!)
ā Set expectations. If you have a partner, consider talking discussing your expectations around the initial week/2 weeks. How could you navigate house chores? Setting family and friendsā expectations? How might you navigate childcare (if you have an older child(ren) or if you have a dog, how will you navigate dog care?
ā Rest ā how might you incorporate rest and selfcare into your new routine?
ā Network ā who is around you that you can call on for help? If you have feeding/sleep/general baby care questions?
ā Consider hiring a postnatal doula. If the financial investment is holding you back, consider asking family and friends for a voucher or to contribute towards this investment.
Let the plan be flexible. Things will likely change, and that's OK. What is important is setting expectations and feeling supported.
