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Adding to these complexities is the fact that postpartum care remains woefully inadequate in the US.
Julymilks/Adobe
The reality is that theres a lack of postpartum care.
Partners and spouses arent immune to postpartum depression either.
They could have already been through three or four miscarriages.
They could have had other lossespregnant or neonatal.
They also could have almost had a baby and then the birth mother changes her mind.
Fortunately, there are ways to make postpartumoften dubbed the fourth trimestera little easier.
It just takes some planning and foresight to understand what you might need down the road.
Whos making the pediatrician appointments?
Whos running to the grocery store?
Have you talked about how youre going to share the nighttime?
Ahead, perinatal experts share everything you should probably know to have a better postpartum experience.
Assemble a postpartum support team.
It takes a village to raise a child, and it takes one to become a parent too.
You dont have to have a perinatal mood disorder to have a mental health counselor.
If youre giving birth, prepare for your physical recovery.
Whether you had a vaginal birth or C-section, its going to take time to fully recover and heal.
Birth parents and surrogates also need recovery support during the postpartum period.
And the first thing is to prioritize themselves.
Im going to go for a walk, she says.
Some parents may feel stressed, understandably so, about the state of their home after having a baby.
Lastly, do something for your baby.
Think: reading a book, singing a song, or taking them on a walk.
Get extra medical support if you need it.
In fact, many people might still feel some discomfort and pain, Dr. Vernon says.
If youre experiencing pain or any physical issues past six weeks, reach out to your doctor.
Straining those muscles can potentially worsendiastasis recti, which is the separation of the abs as the uterus grows.
Diastasis is common and can resolve on its own, but proper core training can help.
And because estrogen levels drop after delivery, you may also feel vaginal dryness.
They will guide you to get back into exercising.
Line up infant feeding help.
Feeding a baby is work, whether youre breastfeeding, formula feeding, or doing a combination of both.
you could also tryLa Leche League.
La Leche League provides free, community-based breastfeeding support groups in person and online.
A lactation consultant may also be able to assist you with combo feeding, Dr. Gray says.
I always tell parents they are a consumer receiving a service, so call your doctor.
Dont have a go at navigate it if youre nervous or scared during those early days.
Thats what they are there for, Love says.
Tap into mental health support.
Withpostpartum depression, your symptoms are more intense and last longer.
You may also have intrusive thoughts that come out of nowhere.
For example, some people may have a worry that theyre going to drop the baby.
Its the fear thats debilitating.
Surround yourself with a like-minded community.
Sometimes all it takes is someone else saying that they can relate.
Finally, Dr. Vernon reminds parents to be their own best advocate.
