Taking Time to Heal: A Crucial Aspect of Postpartum Recovery

As a mother and a physician specializing in breastfeeding medicine and postpartum care, I encounter many new moms facing the challenges of the postpartum period. We often forget to take care of ourselves and instead switch our focus completely to our babies. 

Understanding the Need for Healing

Having a baby, whether through vaginal delivery or a cesarean section, is an intense physical and emotional experience, comparable to undergoing major surgery (and it is, in fact, major surgery if you have a c-section!). It's essential to recognize that healing is required, regardless of whether there was a tear, significant bleeding, or other complications. The absence of these issues doesn't negate the need for your body to heal.

During pregnancy and childbirth, your body undergoes numerous changes. These include shifts in hormones and significant physical adjustments to carry and deliver your baby. Pelvic floor physical therapy can be an important part of a woman's postpartum "rehab."  But postpartum healing isn't just physical – it's also emotional and psychological.

The Unseen Healing

Unfortunately, the healing process is often invisible to others, leading to unrealistic expectations being put on new moms. New mothers are frequently expected to quickly resume their pre-pregnancy lives, attending to household tasks, entertaining guests, and managing numerous appointments. This societal pressure undermines the essential healing period and can increase the risk of postpartum mood disorders.  Thankfully, we do have resources such as Postpartum Support International that provide direct access via a helpline to help provide support and share local resources for those experiencing emotional issues.

Embracing Rest and Recovery

I strongly advocate for a period of rest and bonding with your newborn. This time is not just beneficial – it's necessary for a healthy and smooth postpartum experience. Resting, bonding with your baby, and spending time with your family should take precedence over hosting guests or attending social events.  In the "olden days" and in many cultures around the world, postpartum women live with their mothers and grandmothers, spending most of their time resting in bed with their newborn babies.  The mothers and grandmothers take care of all the household chores and allow the new mother and baby to heal, bond, breastfeed, and adjust to this new and challenging life transition.

Making Postpartum Easier

Consider ways to simplify your life during the initial weeks postpartum. This might mean asking for help with household chores, limiting visitors, or finding more manageable ways to attend necessary appointments, such as pediatrician visits. Remember, it's okay, and actually essential, to let yourself heal.  Taking advantage of virtual visits with medical professionals when appropriate can be helpful.  Arranging home visits for your pediatric care, and accessing mental health services and support groups to treat or prevent mental health disorders should be prioritized.  Your care team can include anyone from lactation consultants to doulas, to housekeepers, shopping services, prepared meal kits, and saying yes to anyone offering to bring you a meal.  

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the postpartum period is a time of significant change and adjustment. It's crucial to give yourself the space and time to heal both physically and emotionally. As a society, we need to change the narrative around postpartum recovery and support new mothers in this critical phase of their journey. Take care of yourself, and remember to embrace the journey of motherhood with the care and gentleness you deserve.