Having a baby is one of the most incredible experiences people can have during their lifetimes. But, not everyone is prepared for how much their life can change once they do give birth.
It is very normal to feel overwhelmed by the new responsibilities, caring for a small human being, and making adjustments to your lifestyle. You might be concerned about your physical recovery, emotional well-being, and how to take care of your newborn all at once. If you are feeling this way, you are not alone.
To give you an idea, here are some tips to navigate post-pregnancy care and make this transition smoother.
1. Prioritize Rest and Sleep
One of the most important things you can do for yourself after giving birth is to rest and get enough sleep.
Since your body has gone through a major event, it needs some time to recover. When you get a lack of sleep, it can make everything feel more challenging, from managing your emotions to taking care of your baby.
One of the biggest tricks is that you should try to nap when your baby naps. This might be easier said than done, but even short naps can help you feel more rested. You should not hesitate to ask for help from your partner, family, or friends so you can catch up on sleep.
2. Eat Nutritious Foods
Other than sleep, your body needs a good amount of nutrition to heal and produce breast milk if you are breastfeeding. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein can give you the energy you need. Not to mention, you need to stay hydrated, which is why you need to get plenty of water throughout the day.
Sometimes, it might be hard to find time to cook. That is why you should consider preparing meals in advance or having healthy snacks on hand. You might also look into services that can help, like meal delivery options that cater to new moms.
On the other hand, if you are struggling with your eating habits, you can look into inpatient eating disorder treatment programs that provide support and guidance.
3. Use Breast Pumps
If you are breastfeeding, you might want to use a breast pump to help manage milk supply and feed your baby.
Breast pumps can be quite expensive, but many insurance plans cover them. Check with your insurance provider to see if you can get breast pumps through insurance to save some money and make breastfeeding more manageable.
Using a breast pump can also allow your partner to help with feeding, giving you a break and making it easier to share the workload.
4. Gentle Exercise
Once your doctor gives you the go-ahead, you should think about incorporating some gentle exercise into your routine to boost your mood, improve your energy levels, and help your body recover.
One of the best ways to start is by walking because it is low impact and easy to fit into your day, especially if you can take your baby along in a stroller.
You can also look into postpartum yoga or stretching exercises designed for new moms. These can help relieve tension in your body and help you feel more relaxed.
The key is to start slowly and listen to your body. Don’t push yourself too hard, and rest when you need to.
