And then there are all the other things that need to be done:
- Who will communicate with friends and family about the new baby?
- Who will schedule medical appointments?
- Who will organise daily life stuff… tax filing, vehicle check-ups, home repairs, work or school related admin?
And most importantly….who will support YOU?
- Who will massage your sore shoulders when you’ve been breastfeeding for hours or are feeling tense?
- Who will microwave your heat packs?
- Who will make you cups of tea?
- Who will protect the boundaries when people ask to come and visit, but you desperately need rest?
- Who will listen to your worries and concerns, without trying to “fix” anything or interrupting you?
- Who will hold the baby so you can shower or nap?
- Who will tell you that you’re amazing, strong, capable, courageous?
It’s OK if you don’t know the answers to these questions yet. Once you see where the gaps are, you can start to build your village of support.
P.S. If you have a partner, don’t assume that they can take on all of this singlehandedly. That’s not how humans have evolved. It takes a village to care for a newborn mother – both physically and emotionally.
Originally published HERE.
When women are nourished and nurtured after giving birth, they feel calm, connected and confident. My passion is to provide this high level of postnatal support to women in Canberra and worldwide. I guide expectant parents to create a vision for life with baby, and give them the practical tools to make their vision a reality. You can find me at Peaceful Postnatal.
