The postpartum period, which starts right after giving birth, is a special but challenging time. It’s when your body and emotions are adjusting to life with a new baby. As a new mum, you will benefit physically and emotionally from focusing on postpartum wellness.
Holistic Postpartum Care: A Simple Guide for New Moms
Having the right postpartum essentials can make a real difference in the recovery process. The essentials include soothing sprays, comfortable clothing, and nutritional support that aid in physical and emotional healing during this period.
That’s the basis of this blog post: to help you understand and go through the necessary steps and processes as seamlessly as possible.
What Is Postpartum Recovery?
Postpartum healing is all about getting back to feeling like yourself after giving birth, encompassing both physical and emotional aspects of recovery. That includes managing any physical discomfort and dealing with the changes in your body. You might experience swelling, pain, or other physical issues. Gentle activities, like taking short walks or doing light yoga, may help you regain your strength. Eating healthy foods, like lean proteins and whole grains, supports your body’s healing process.
Holistic Postpartum Care
A holistic approach to postpartum care means looking at the whole picture of your recovery – from using natural remedies and ensuring you have support from family, friends, or a postpartum doula. Practices like meditation and positive affirmations can support emotional healing during the postpartum period. You’re to address your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It’s about feeling supported and cared for by yourself and others during your new chapter of motherhood.
The Importance of Holistic Postpartum Care
Holistic postpartum care focuses on the entire well-being of new mothers. It considers physical recovery, emotional support, and mental health as interconnected parts of a complete healing process.
Natural remedies like clary sage essential oil and self-care rituals can help alleviate postpartum symptoms, enhancing both physical recovery and emotional well-being.
One key aspect of holistic postpartum care is managing postpartum recovery with a focus on both the body and mind. Incorporating essential oils and natural remedies, such as herbal teas, can support physical healing and reduce stress.
Physical Recovery and Self-Care
Your body undergoes obvious changes during childbirth, and the postpartum period is necessary for healing. Holistic care emphasizes physical recovery by incorporating gentle exercises, like postnatal yoga or walking, to help regain strength. Nutrient-dense foods, including whole grains, iron-rich foods, and healthy fats, support physical healing and energy levels.
Natural remedies could be beneficial too. Using a peri bottle with warm water and applying ice packs are known to ease physical discomfort. Essential oils, such as lavender or chamomile, are often recommended for relaxation and reducing stress. Balancing rest with light activity helps your body recover at a comfortable pace.
Emotional and Mental Wellness
Many new moms face emotional challenges, such as postpartum depression or anxiety (1 in 7 new mums are affected, according to March of Dimes). Emotional recovery is key during this time, and support systems, including friends, family, and online resources, can aid in this process. It’s helpful to talk about your feelings with someone you trust. Joining a support group or getting help from a postpartum doula may provide the support you need in that phase.
The Role of Support and Community
Creating a supportive environment is vital for holistic postpartum wellness. Engaging with family members and support groups could provide emotional relief and practical help.
Seek Professional Guidance
Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider ensure that both physical and mental health are monitored. The guidance helps in addressing any postpartum depression or anxiety effectively.
Practical Tips for New Moms
The initial weeks after childbirth often become tedious and demanding. Implementing practical lifestyle advice should ease your transition and support your postpartum wellness. Note the following tips:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential, particularly if you’re breastfeeding. Staying hydrated supports milk production and overall health.
- Meal Planning: Prepare and freeze meals in advance to make mealtime easier. Having nutritious, easy-to-reheat options available should simplify your daily routine and ensure you maintain a balanced diet.
- Breastfeeding Support: Ensure you receive adequate breastfeeding support, including guidance on maintaining a healthy milk supply and addressing any concerns you may have about breastfeeding.
And don’t think you are alone, or that you aren’t enough just for needing some breastfeeding help. According to the What To Expect website, 59% of moms found breastfeeding a bit more difficult than they expected, with another 12% saying they tried to breastfeed but couldn’t.
Of all mums in the study, 97% said they tried getting breastfeeding support, and 23% said they might have been able to breastfeed for longer if they’d gotten more of it.
- Create a Wellness Plan: Develop a postpartum wellness plan that includes self-care strategies, meal planning, and support resources. The plan should guide you through the early weeks and help ensure a smoother recovery.
- Natural Remedies: Using natural remedies, like essential oils and herbal teas, may ease postpartum symptoms. The remedies support physical recovery and emotional balance, providing a natural complement to traditional treatments.
- Postpartum Doula: A postpartum doula plays a vital role in holistic care by offering practical support and emotional encouragement. Their presence may help manage daily tasks and provide valuable guidance during the postpartum period.
- Monitor Your Health: Regularly assess your physical and emotional health. If you experience persistent symptoms of postpartum depression or anxiety, consult with your healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about postpartum wellness using available and helpful resources such as Dr. Kristal Lau’s published guide: 3 Essential Postpartum Changes That No One Really Talks About And What To Do About Them. Understanding your needs and options should empower you to make informed decisions about your care.
- Postpartum Essentials: Stock up on postpartum essentials like soothing sprays, comfortable clothing, and nutritional support. You need the items to aid physical and emotional healing during the recovery period.
Long-Term Wellness and Future Planning
Holistic postpartum care isn’t just about immediate recovery but also about preparing for long-term wellness. As you adjust to your new life, consider:
- Planning for Future Births: Reflecting on your postpartum experience may provide valuable insights for future pregnancies. Understanding what worked well and what didn’t will help you make informed decisions for upcoming births.
- Maintaining a Balanced Lifestyle: Continue prioritizing self-care and holistic practices as part of your daily routine. That ongoing focus on well-being supports a healthy transition into motherhood and ensures lasting benefits for both you and your baby.
- Get an Expert Postpartum Wellness Plan by Dr. Kristal Lau: Dr. Lau is a Physician and Postpartum Wellness Consultant with extensive experience in clinical medicine and public health. The author of 3 Essential Postpartum Changes That No One Really Talks About And What To Do About Them offers personalized 30-minute Clarity Calls to help you create a tailored postpartum wellness plan that’ll guide you in achieving long-term health and well-being.
Book your FREE Clarity Call with Dr. Lau to start planning your path to wellness today!
FAQs About Postpartum Wellness
What is holistic care for pregnancy?
Holistic care during pregnancy focuses on supporting the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. It includes practices like eating a balanced diet, managing stress, and using natural remedies. The approach helps ensure both the mother and baby are healthy and well-supported throughout pregnancy and postpartum.
What is a holistic approach to childbirth?
A holistic approach to childbirth involves preparing for labor and delivery in a way that considers your physical, emotional, and mental needs. It includes practices like childbirth education, relaxation techniques, and choosing a supportive birth environment.
What to avoid during postpartum recovery?
During postpartum recovery, it’s important to avoid strenuous activities, excessive stress, and poor nutrition. Also, try to limit exposure to negative influences and avoid neglecting your own needs in favor of others. Prioritize rest and gradual physical activity to support healing.
What herbs are good for postpartum?
Herbs like ginger, peppermint, and chamomile are known to be helpful during postpartum. They support digestion, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. Always consult with your healthcare provider before using any herbs, especially if you’re breastfeeding or have any health conditions.
What is the difference between postnatal care and postpartum care?
Postnatal care typically refers to the care of the baby immediately after birth, while postpartum care focuses on the mother’s recovery after childbirth. Both are essential for a healthy start for both mother and baby, but postpartum care encompasses a broader range of support for the mother’s overall well-being.