Preparing for the First Days Postpartum
As you enter the final stretch of pregnancy, you’ve likely spent a lot of time thinking about the birth itself, but what about those first few days postpartum? The period right after birth can be challenging, and preparing for it can make all the difference. Here are a few things you can do to help you get ready for the transition to life with your new baby.
Set Up a Recovery Station
Your body will need time to heal after birth, whether you had a vaginal delivery or an operative birth. Create a recovery station at home with all the essentials that’s within easy reach. Some items to include are:
Peri bottle and pads
Dermaplast or witch hazel pads for discomfort
Mesh underwear
C-section scar care products, if applicable
Place these items in the bathroom where you’ll be able to access them easily. Being prepared ahead of time will give you one less thing to worry about as you focus on healing and spending time with your baby. This isn’t the time you'll want to run to the store or hope the amazon order arrives before you need it! Plan ahead!
Stock Up on Easy Meals
Once baby arrives, finding time and energy to cook will be more difficult. Having easy meals in the freezer and snacks that are easy and quick to grab will be invaluable. Meals and snacks to consider:
Freezer meals you can make ahead of time. I like to freeze in individual portions so they’re easy to defrost for a quick meal. Remember breakfast meal prep is helpful, too!
Ready-to-eat options like soups, granola bars, and smoothies.
Healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, or yogurt, cheese sticks, or protein bars.
You’ll need extra nourishment to fuel your recovery and breastfeeding (if you choose to), so having convenient food ready can be a lifesaver.
Create a Feeding and changing Station
Your new routine will largely revolve around feeding and diaper changes in the early days. Set up a station in the nursery or in a comfortable spot with all the essentials:
Diapers, wipes, and diaper cream
Breastfeeding pillow, burp cloths, or formula supplies
A comfy chair with good back support
Water and snacks for yourself
Book or Kindle to keep yourself entertained without the temptation to google things or scroll on social media the whole time!
This setup will allow you to focus on your baby without scrambling to find what you need in the middle of the night.
Ask for (and Accept) Help
It’s easy to want to do it all, but the reality is you’ll need help. Whether from your partner, family, or friends, having a support system in place can ease the transition. Don’t be afraid to ask for help with things like:
Holding the baby while you nap
Doing household chores
Running to the grocery store or cooking meals
Preparing easy snacks like cut up fruits and veggies
Walking the dog/taking care of other pets
Involving others can help you feel less overwhelmed and give you time to rest and recover.
Prepare for Your Emotional Well-Being
The postpartum period can be an emotional rollercoaster. It’s normal to feel a mix of joy, exhaustion, and even anxiety. Hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and the responsibility of caring for a newborn can take a toll on your mental health. It’s important to think this through ahead of time. Being proactive about your emotional health is just as important as physical recovery. Prepare by:
Talking to your partner or a trusted person about how you’re feeling
Setting aside time to rest, nap, and decompress
Keeping in touch with your healthcare provider if you experience feelings of depression or anxiety that go beyond the baby blues
Discussing with your partner or close family/friend about signs of depression and anxiety and when they should step in
Plan for Postpartum Appointments
You and your baby will have several follow-up appointments in the weeks after birth. Make sure you’re ready by scheduling these ahead of time, or while you’re in the hospital. Postpartum visits for yourself can help ensure you’re healing properly, while pediatric appointments will monitor your baby’s growth and development. Having these lined up before baby arrives will make the first days more manageable and there will be fewer things to coordinate. Even doing things like packing the diaper bag before going into labor can significantly reduce stress when you’re on the way out the door for that first appointment with your new baby.
By preparing for the postpartum period in advance, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother transition into parenthood. Remember that it’s okay to ask for help, take things slow, and focus on what’s most important: caring for yourself and your new baby.
