Chapter Seven - Postpartum Care

Postpartum Care-Depression, Rest, Eating, Houswork
You are home now. Life is not the same as it used to be.... You are tired, your bottom hurts, your house is a mess, baby didn't sleep much last night, you feel like crying all the time.... is it worth it? Yes, it is and now is the time for you to take care of yourself.
 
You have the most beautiful baby God ever created! You had an awesome labor and delivery, or maybe it wasn't so awesome. You husband has been the most  wonderful, helpful and loving husband you could ever wish for, so why are you crying? Why does the whole world look gray today? The most important thing to realize is the postpartum depression,"baby blues", is real. It is to be expected and is a normal part of your post natal recovery. Don't try to hold it in. Share with your husband what you are feeling.  Cry on his shoulder... it is broad. If it is warm weather, get out and walk. Put the baby in the stroller and take a stroll, breathing in the fresh air. Take time for yourself and realize that "this too shall pass". You will feel like this for a few days or maybe a few weeks and then it will vanish. If it lasts longer than that or gets worse don't hesitate to call your OB doctor. They know what to do to help.

You need to sleep when baby sleeps. Let everything go, lie down and rest. Being tired affects every aspect of your life. If you can't sleep, take that time to indulge yourself in a long soaking bath or shower, a good hair wash and manicure. It will make you feel so much better!

Ask for and receive help. There are friends and family who would be glad to come over and lend a helping hand. Even if it is only for 1 hour, it will give you time to get out, take a walk, sit down and eat a relaxing meal, or just relax. If you don't have any friends or family close by, ask your hubby to hire a postpartum doula to mother you. They are wonderful!  Go to www.dona.org to find a doula in your area. If someone offers to bring you a meal, DO NOT REFUSE!

Eat well. It is so easy when you are tired and overwhelmed to not sit down and eat a good meal. Make sure you try to eat a balanced diet, complete with lots of fruits and vegetables , protein and whole grains. Drink lots of liquids, milk, juices and lots and lots of water.

Prioritize. Your live has changed now . Things are going to be different so decide what is important in your life right now. Obviously taking care of your baby and yourself is tops.  You don't have a choice there!  In the first few weeks don't push yourself and don't expect perfection.

I believe having a clean kitchen  goes a long ways in keeping your spirits up. Enlist the help of your husband in keeping it tidy.

You need clean clothes. There again, your husband can be a big help in throwing a load or two of wash in the machine. You can sit on the sofa or bed and fold them as they come out of the dryer and he can put them where they belong.

Straighten the main livng areas as needed. Notice I said straighten. No heavy lifting, no vacuuming, no mopping the kitchen floor. Get someone to help you do those things or just let them slide. The dusting, vacuuming, cleaning the mirrors, ironing, and cleaning out the refrigerator CAN WAIT! 
Rest and enjoy that precious little one!

A happy mama is a happy home!

The youngest Grandson!