Bringing a new life into the world is a miraculous and transformative experience, but it also comes with the physical and emotional recovery journey.
If you’re a first-time mom feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety about what lies ahead post-childbirth, worry not! Here are some insightful tips to guide you through the recovery process:
1. Rest and Prioritize Self-Care:
The 5-5-5 rule applies to the first 15 days postpartum and gives a framework for resting and intentionally increasing activity, while still honoring your body’s needs.
- Five days in bed. These first five days you are resting as much as possible, getting up as little as possible. You can do almost everything from bed. Delegate meals, water refills, diaper and clothes changes. These are things your partner or support person can do (often partners feel like they dont know what to do– start here!). If you have older kiddos, have them on water refill duty.
- Five days on bed. You’re still rocking your comfy robe and staying close to your bed. But now you’re getting up for 30 minutes (max at a time) and then resting for another 90 minutes. Take the opportunity to sit on the deck and get some fresh air, or hang out on the couch for a change of scenery.
- Five days around bed. About half your day is still spent in bed (or on the couch) resting. You can start to incorporate short (like so short) outings and maybe a walk down the street. Again the focus is still resting and bonding. If you notice your bleeding increase as your activity increases, that is your cue to slow it down.
2. Build your village of support:
Having professionals in your corner is a must. You cant do it alone. Here are some great resources you can start looking into:
- Breastfeeding support: Latching with Grace, Lava Baby Lactation
- Postpartum and infant chiropractic care: Life Adjusted Chiropractic
- Postpartum Mental Health: Postpartum Stress Center
- Oral/Tongue Tie Support: East Berlin Smiles
3. Stay Hydrated and Nourished:
Hydration and nutrition play a vital role in your recovery. Make sure to drink plenty of water, and focus on nourishing, easy-to-prepare meals. Your body has just undergone a tremendous feat, and replenishing nutrients is essential. Don’t have time to make food? Check out Nourish You for ready to eat, nourishing postpartum meals. This is a local to Mechanicsburg small business who I absolutely love!
4. Pelvic Floor Health:
Pelvic floor exercises are crucial for postpartum recovery. Incorporate breath work and deep core exercises into your routine to strengthen these muscles. I highly recommend the online program called Move Your Bump...you might notice my picture in their advertising haha
5. Postpartum Care Products:
Invest in postpartum care products such as soothing creams and pads. These can provide relief to sensitive areas and promote healing. I highly recommend this postpartum recover box form Earth Mama
6. Celebrate Small Achievements:
Recovery is a journey marked by small victories. Celebrate each milestone, whether it’s regaining strength, improving sleep, or simply getting through a challenging day. Acknowledge your resilience and progress.
Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Every new mom faces unique challenges, and your experience is valid. Trust the process, be patient with yourself, and savor the precious moments with your newborn. Recovery may take time, but with proper self-care and support, you’ll emerge stronger and more confident in your role as a new mom.
