How to Prepare for Postpartum: Tips and Encouragement from a 3rd Time Mama

When I was pregnant with my first, I wish I had thought more (or at all!) about my postpartum body before I found myself face to face with it. We spend so much time learning about pregnancy, newborns, and sleep schedules, but not nearly enough understanding the immediate changes and needs in the postpartum period. Mentally preparing for postpartum can help ease the transition into motherhood and the emotional challenges that come with it. Here are some of my favorite strategies to help prepare mentally for postpartum:

Understand the Changes: Acknowledge that postpartum recovery involves both physical and emotional changes. Your body will undergo significant changes, and your emotions may fluctuate due to hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and new responsibilities. 

Set Realistic Expectations: Accept that things may not go according to plan. While it can be helpful to think through how you’ll approach feeding, sleep, or your new routine, flexibility and setting realistic expectations can ease feelings of disappointment or frustration when you need to pivot.

Plan for Support: Surround yourself with a support system of family and friends or consider a postpartum doula. Determine what kind of help you need, set boundaries that work for you, and don’t hesitate to lean on those who care about you. Knowing that support is available can help you feel less isolated and better equipped to handle the challenges of life with a newborn. 

Learn About Postpartum Mental Health: Educate yourself on postpartum depression (PPD), anxiety, and other mental health challenges that can occur after childbirth. Talk to your doctor to learn more about the resources available to you.

Create a Self-Care Routine: While self-care may seem difficult with a newborn, it’s important to make time for yourself. Your routine can be as simple as taking a walk, doing deep breathing, or asking someone to watch the baby while you rest or take a shower. Small acts of self-care can help you recharge and manage stress.

Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management: Engage in stress-relieving activities like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga before and after baby comes. These practices can help you stay grounded and focused through difficult days (and nights) postpartum. Talk to your doctor about safe and effective techniques that could work for you.

Set Boundaries: Establish boundaries with visitors or family members, especially in the early weeks, to preserve your energy and prioritize your healing. Don’t be afraid to say “no” to visitors or social obligations if you need rest or space.

Prepare for the Reality of Sleep Deprivation: Sleep deprivation is common in the early postpartum period. Plan for ways to manage fatigue, like taking naps when the baby naps or asking your partner to help with nighttime feedings.

Communicate with Your Partner: Talk to your partner about your expectations, needs, and any concerns you may have. Open communication can help ensure you’re both on the same page and ready to share the responsibilities that come with parenthood.

Give Yourself Grace: Remember that postpartum is a time of adjustment, and it’s okay not to have everything together. Allow yourself grace as you learn to navigate this new phase of life.

Download Mama Mode: I created and designed Mama Mode as a mom in the thick of raising littles, seeking to equip other new, soon-to-be, and seasoned mamas with the tools and features to lighten the mental load. Get organized with checklists and reminders, care for yourself with meditations and journaling, build your support system with chore distribution and so. Much. More. Try the app with a 7-day free trial and see the difference it can make for you in any stage of motherhood.

By acknowledging the changes and challenges that come with postpartum, building a support network, and prioritizing your wellbeing, you can better prepare for the transition as you adjust to life with your new baby – and life as a new mom!

MAMA MODE | JAN 10, 2025 | MENTAL WELLNESS

Take the mental load off, mama.