How to Take Care of Yourself During the Postpartum Period

Nov. 7

As a mom of four, I love being able to experience the sweetness of the newborn phase over and over with my newborn photography clients.

Being able to meet your sweet baby and counting their little fingers and toes is the best. It always brings me back to when I brought my babies home.

Since I am a mom, I can remember exactly what the postpartum phase was like. It’s an incredible experience as well as mentally and physically exhausting. It’s so important to take care of yourself, mama. That’s why I put together these tips on caring for yourself during the postpartum period.

fingers and toes during a newborn portrait session

black and white portrait of a father holding his newborn while mom looks on

8 Tips on Caring for Yourself During the Postpartum Period

These are my top eight tips on caring for yourself. Did I miss anything that you would add?

Accept As Much Help As You Can

Accept as much as you can and are comfortable with. If your neighbour offers to drop off a meal, say yes. If your neighbour offers to drop off a meal and wants to see the baby, it’s okay to say, “We would love a meal, and I’d love to arrange a visit another time!” You can set boundaries around the help you receive!

Sweet newborn during his newborn portrait session

A black and white portrait of a father holding his son

Communicate with Your Partner

Communicating with your partner and any other support people is very important. Your partner wants to help you as much as possible but might need help figuring out what to do. You can say exactly what you need. Even if it’s just a 10-minute bath or you want to have a conversation that’s not about the baby. Communicating your needs will help you get the right support.

father holding his newborn son close during newborn portrait session

father kisses his son during newborn photo session

family of three embraces for newborn portrait

Rest

The age-old advice is to sleep when the baby sleeps. I know that can seem silly when there’s so much that needs to get done around the house. But for the first couple of weeks, try to sleep when the baby sleeps. You can ignore the dishes for a little while (or ask your partner to do them). You deserve rest, mama!

mother holds newborn during portrait session

black and white image of mother holding her newborn

Cozy Robes and PJs

Comfy PJs? Yes! Now there are so many cute and comfy pajamas that are perfect for the postpartum period. You can look stylish while still staying quite pleasant. If you’re nursing, invest in nursing bras and tanks, so you’re easily accessible for feeds. Whether you’re nursing or not, you’ll want soft, cozy clothes because you’ll be snuggled up with your beautiful newborn.

Family of three holds each other close during portrait session

Gentle Exercises and Stretches

Please always follow your doctor’s advice. However, gentle movement and stretches are usually good for your postpartum body. If you’re nursing or bottle-feeding your baby, you tend to hunch over and look down at your little one while they eat. After a feeding, try to stretch your neck, shoulders, arms, and wrists. Usually, a short and gentle walk is good for exercise and to get some fresh air. (Again, please follow your doctor’s instructions.)

newborn sneaks a smile during newborn photo session

black and white image of a newborn baby during portrait session

sleepy newborn during studio portrait session

Eating Well

Stock up on all your favorite snacks before bringing baby home. Try and have easy meals and snacks that are easily accessible. It’s also important to nourish your body with fresh fruits and vegetables, and fiber. If someone asks you what they can bring, some fresh produce is a perfect suggestion!

newborn baby opens eyes during newborn session

Hydrate

Always keep water nearby and make sure to drink, mama. Your body needs lots of water during the postpartum period, especially if you are nursing. Keeping your water full and nearby is a perfect job for your partner or support people as well.

Find Community

Find your mom community. Reach out to your mom friends so that you have people you can go to with any questions or if you need someone who understands what you’re going through. This can be mom friends you already have, or you can find lots of amazing communities online.

black and white portrait of father with his newborn

Niagara Newborn Photography

Finally, one of the best ways to take care of yourself is by documenting your motherhood journey. Full-service newborn photography is the best of both worlds. I can document your sweet newborn and family while taking care of all the details for you. On the day of your session, you won’t have to worry about anything except taking care of your baby.

Once you arrive at the studio, my hair and makeup stylist will be there to pamper you and help you feel beautiful. The outfits you selected during our planning process will be clean and ready for you to step into. After you and your family are ready, we capture the love and beauty of this special time. Click here for my new mom’s top 5 questions about newborn photography.

If you’re interested in scheduling your newborn session, please send me a message here.