Post Partum Care

No matter how prepared you are for your baby, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the physical and emotional changes that come after delivery. Women with complicated deliveries, or those who undergo C-sections are often in even more discomfort than those who have a traditional vaginal birth. While no one would expect you to take on more responsibilities after a surgical procedure, motherhood holds different expectations -- suddenly you're getting less sleep, taking on more work. Needless to say, this period of time can be exhausting.

In other countries, it's customary for a midwife to visit new parents for the first couple of weeks after returning home, but here in the United States we don't generally benefit from such services. Part of the reason is the expectation that grandparents and other family members will be able to help out during this period. But there's also an unrealistic expectation that the mother will just bounce back from the birth. People talk about surviving this period as though doing so earns a badge of honor. But, as with any other skill -- driving, working, walking, dancing -- you don't perform as well if you're not well-rested.

Psychology Today published an article entitled "The Postnatal Blues" which points to the link between more community support (ie: midwife visits, assistance from family members) and lower levels of postpartum depression. Since Austin is part of the United States, as moms here we generally don't get the benefit of a midwife. We're a little like zombies walking around for the first few months of our lives. Here are some tips for making sure you get the rest you need to recover and be the best mom possible:

1. While we may not automatically get midwives of our own, you can get the same assistance from a caregiver. Oftentimes, people think of caregivers as those who care for the elderly, but they're also skilled to assist for post-operative patients and new mothers. See our list of recommended caregivers for new moms in Austin.

2. Don't use your baby's nap time to get chores done around the house. Rest! Remember that it's easier to get help with your laundry than with lack of sleep.

3. Accept help. Even if you don't have family in Austin, swallow your pride and allow your friends to help you during this period. Rest assured that they'll need help from you in the future.

4. Stay away from caffeine if you're having a hard time sleeping. It's vital that you help your body to be at rest. Caffeine can also play a role in mood swings, so it's best for everyone if you stick to non-caffeinated beverages.