There are so many checkups that we have during pregnancy, with tests for different things, scans, and well-being appointments to check how we are. But once the baby has arrived, there is definitely a lack of support for new mums. A lot of the postnatal appointments are quite right to check on the baby, but there needs to be a consideration for mum too. Postpartum time can be tough, so it definitely pays to be prepared both mentally and physically. Here are some of the things that you could do to prepare yourself for the time with your new baby.
Get plenty of rest
This can definitely be something that can be easier said than done when you have a new baby, but it is important to get as much sleep as possible. Your baby is likely to wake up every few hours at night to feed, so you need to sleep when the baby does and get as much rest as you can.
Exercise when you can
When you have had a postpartum checkup appointment you will be told if you have the all-clear to exercise. It may be a little longer if you have had a cesarean birth. What you do doesn’t need to be too strenuous, just walking around the block with the baby can be enough, but making time to move and give yourself some energy will make a difference to how you feel overall.
Consider contraception
Another child so soon after having one might be the last thing on our mind, which is why it is important to think about what kind of contraception you are going to use. You might want to avoid hormonal ones when your hormones will be all over the place as it is, but there are plenty of options to consider for both yourself and your partner.
Talk to someone
Feeling the baby blues can be quite normal in the few days that follow from birth. But if you find that the baby blues last longer and you feel quite low and sad, with very little motivation to do things that normally give you joy, then it is important to reach out. Postnatal depression is common, and it is nothing to be ashamed of. By speaking out you can make a difference and get the help that is needed. It is definitely good to talk.
Eat healthy meals
When you are feeling tired, it is important to fill yourself with good food that will give you all of the nutrition that you need. Having a healthy diet will help your body to heal and give you the energy that will help you. The foods to increase with this is to have more whole grains, as well as fruits, vegetables, and healthy proteins. Another thing to do is to make sure that you have enough water to drink to help you to stay hydrated, which is especially true if you are breastfeeding. Drink at least two litres of water a day and it will make a difference.
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