The Truth About Postpartum
Let’s be honest, navigating the postpartum period isn’t easy and most of us enter it woefully under-prepared. Of course, it has so many moments of joy and bonding but it’s mixed with challenges. Our culture pressures us to swiftly return to our pre-pregnancy selves before we’ve even gotten a grip on all the transformation we’ve gone through. The ‘bounce-back’ fixation is unrealistic for most and only adds stress to an already stressful and new experience. The truth of postpartum is that we need healing much more than we need weight loss. And this healing extends far beyond the conventional six-week marker. For most, healing will last months and even years as your body undergoes profound hormonal and physical re-centering. Our bodies are asked to recover, heal, and adjust all while having very little sleep and caring for another human being completely.
Amidst the often relentless crap thrown at us from culture and societal expectations, it's essential to prioritize self-compassion and support above everything else. So today I want to share some Truths About Postpartum. The things many of us only learn about after we have a baby in our arms. My hope is that by embracing the realities of postpartum life with empathy and understanding, we can create a culture that celebrates the resilience and strength of new mothers, acknowledging the beauty and challenges that come with postpartum. Honoring both our bodies, healing, and value to our community!
10 Realities of the Postpartum Experience
Lochia
The truth is, you will bleed whether you have a vaginal birth or cesarean. Lochia is the word used for this sacred bleeding time after having a baby. For most, it will last 6-9 weeks as your body heals internally. Your bleeding is also a great indicator of when you have “overdone” it, as you will bleed more.
2. Nutrition
The truth is, that with all of that bleeding you will feel depleted so it is crucial to eat nutrient-rich foods, especially those with iron. Consuming iron-rich foods aids in energy replenishment, hormone regulation, and postpartum recovery, supporting your body's healing process.
3. After pains
The truth is, you will likely feel afterpains. They feel like more intense cramps but are a great sign that your uterus is returning to its pre-baby size. Afterpains can be more intense with each birth, so also be prepared for potentially increased discomfort with your second, third, and fourth baby.
4. Hair loss
The truth is that hair loss is very normal after having a baby. Embracing this natural process with patience and self-compassion is key to navigating this transition.
5.Milk Supply
The truth about milk supply is that it's supply and demand; the more you bring baby to the breast, the more your supply will know to produce. Feeding on demand during the first 6 weeks helps establish a healthy milk supply and rhythm. Try not to skip feeds because this can affect the signals your supply gets about what baby needs. And direct skin to skin contact with your baby, even when they aren’t nursing, can only strengthen this relationship. Another truth here is that it is perfectly normal to feel over-touched and over-stimulated during this period. This does NOT make you a bad parent. Be sure to take breaks and find balance with this.
6. Breast Engorgement
The truth is that breast engorgement will likely feel like carrying two rocks on your chest. Managing this discomfort involves finding a balance in expressing milk to avoid complications like mastitis. Staying in a good rhythm with baby is really helpful for this but it is never fun or comfortable.
7. Mood Swings
The truth is that your moods will be all over the place after having a baby - this is normal. Especially around days 3-5 it is very common to feel exceptionally and unexplainably weepy. Ride those waves and allow ALL the feels to wash over you, just as you did with your surges in labor. Postpartum Depression (PPD) is very common, and while mood changes and depression are normal due to hormonal fluctuations, if you experience prolonged periods without fluctuation or have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, it's crucial to seek help from a professional. If you are in or around Denver, I highly recommend connecting with The Catalyst Center.
8. Don’t Rush Sex
The truth is that sex can wait until YOU truly feel ready. While most doctors suggest waiting about six weeks, it's essential to listen to your body and not rush into anything until you feel 100% comfortable. Many moms experience pain, discomfort and/or fear well beyond 6 weeks and it takes time for them to feel ready for intimacy. Your body isn’t aligned to some standardized calendar and you don’t need to justify or feel guilt around not being ready.
9. Fertility
The truth is that you will likely have high fertility soon after giving birth. It's crucial to consider contraception if you're not ready for another pregnancy, as ovulation can occur before your first postpartum period. Remember, breastfeeding does not guarantee protection against pregnancy, so using other forms of contraception is important to prevent unwanted pregnancies.
10. Postpartum Doula
The truth is, investing in a postpartum doula may be one of the best decisions for you and your whole family. Postpartum doulas offer invaluable support during this isolating time, providing overnight assistance, meal preparation, household help, and emotional support as you navigate breastfeeding and mental health challenges. Their presence can make a significant difference in your postpartum journey, ensuring your whole family feels supported and empowered during this transitional period. If you are in Denver, I highly recommend checking out Mile High Doulas.
Feeling prepared for postpartum is a great first step. Then my advice is to actually plan some support and time for healing during the fourth trimester. Remember, it's okay not to have all the answers or to feel overwhelmed at times. The journey through postpartum is a unique and individual experience for every new parent. Be gentle with yourself, prioritize self-care, and lean on your support network whenever you need it. You are stronger and more resilient than you realize! Trust in your intuition, advocate for your needs, and know that you are not alone on this journey. You are capable, you are worthy, and you are deserving of all the love and support in the world as you navigate the beautiful complexities of postpartum.
Welcome
I’m Lindsey Eden
Doula and birth photographer based in Denver Colorado! Mama of two and passionate believer that documenting the journey of birth can heal and change lives!
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