Having a baby can be magical, especially when you're prepared.
Often, people prepare for childbirth, design the nursery, and purchase lots of baby items.
But one of the best things you can do before your baby arrives is to prepare for postpartum. This means stocking up on practical supplies, making plans for post-birth support, and ensuring you can get as much rest as possible. And even though there's no way to altogether avoid the challenges that come with the transition into parenthood, there are things you can do today to help you feel ready. By being prepared ahead of time, you can make sure the whole process after birth will go smoother.
There are some things everyone goes through after having a baby. For example, you will experience bleeding for four to six weeks post-birth. Your breasts will start to produce milk. Additionally, you'll experience night sweats and rapid mood swings due to the fluctuations in hormones. These changes and others can be hard, but if you are prepared for what to expect and discover tips for handling these common experiences, you'll be able to navigate this time well.
Once your baby arrives, you'll find that taking care of a newborn is a round-the-clock job. Infant feeding, newborn sleep rhythms, and understanding why your baby is crying can be daunting tasks. However, these early days are also a time to bond with your new family member. You'll need lots of quiet time to cuddle, talk to, or sit quietly with your baby. It's a good idea to think about how you'll want to handle visitors before the birth. Take the time to create your ideal postpartum sanctuary. One that allows you to learn to care for your infant and bond as a family as undisturbed as possible. Doing so will create the opportunity for lasting memories and lay the foundation for healthy, happy relationships.
Another possibility to investigate is hiring professional postpartum support. A postpartum doula, newborn care specialist, or lactation counselor can help after the birth, and it's worth considering hiring these professionals in advance. They can provide invaluable support and guidance during those first few weeks. Don't wait until the last minute - many of these professionals are booked several months ahead of due dates.
Becoming a parent is one of the most significant life changes you'll ever go through. It's natural to feel a little overwhelmed as you think about everything you'll need to do to get ready. But don’t worry, we’re here to help!
Our Village In A Weekend postpartum prep course is a great place to start. This step-by-step guide makes it easy for you to get the support you'll need lined up, helps you brainstorm what you're hoping for in your postpartum period, and plan. We know that every parent and every family is unique, so our goal is to give you the tools and information you need to create a postpartum plan that works for you. You can learn more about the course here.
Don't wing it through postpartum. Get prepared!