The new-born stage is such a magical time ( there’s nothing like those sweet baby cuddles!) even though post partum wasn’t easy, I find myself reminiscing at photos of how tiny my daughter was..
That being said, society doesn’t set up for a blissful post partum experience (maternity leave being the biggest issue in the USA).
And after being thrown into this post partum culture (with no mercy!) there are the top post partum 4 truths I wish I could back in time and tell myself.
1. We aren’t meant to do this alone
As mothers and daughters, we are connected with one another. My mother is the bones of my spine, keeping me straight and true. She is my blood, making sure it runs rich and strong.
Kristin Hannah
Society expects moms to manage the perfect household all while grinding 24/7 and providing nonstop attention to our children.
Mothers can’t ( and shouldn’t) be required to do it all.
All this to say : we aren’t meant to do this alone. It truly takes a village to raise a child.
Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness or failure. It shows we care about our sanity and our family.
This could look like:
- Friends / family dropping off food ( meal trains)
- List of chores to be done around the house
- Helping with your other children
- Holding baby while you shower / relax
- Just having be there / get you company
What tasks could you delegate to other people during this vulnerable time?
2. Recovery Isn’t Linear
Societies pressure women to “bounce back” post birth.
But Mother’s need rest and nourishment just as her new baby does.
Post partum recovery isn’t always on a strict 6 week deadline ( in fact it takes a full two years for a women to start to feel like her self again)
It’s okay to rest no matter how far along post partum you, every body is different.
Whenever I get impatient over my body progress, I remind that I just birthed a human being (which is so crazy!)
3. Don’t feel pressured to “get it right”
From child education classes, advice from family and friends, and the endless information on the internet about the best and right way to care for your new baby, it can easily feel overwhelming.
Especially, if your baby isnt doing the things they’re supposed to do, no matter how much do it right.
no matter if the sound machine is on, the temperature is perfect and your baby still won’t sleep,
no matter if you’ve done all things but they won’t stop crying.
It’s okay, you’re doing everything right.
Babies will be babies, they don’t listen to rules.
Sometimes just holding your baby, knowing you’re doing all you can is enough. You’re doing perfect.
4. You Aren’t Rude For Having Boundaries
Everyone is going to be so excited to meet your new baby, and all these visitors can easily feel overwhelming. ..
Or maybe not! You could crave company and want all your friends and family members with you or maybe you don’t mind visitors but don’t them staying too long.
The point is you- don’t feel bad for having boundaries when it comes to protecting your post partum energy ( you’ll need all the energy you can get, don’t let other people take it because just to please them).
The uncensored version?
Do whatever boundaries feel right for you and screw everyone else!