How Your Partner Can Support You in Postpartum
After nine long months and hours of labor, you and your newborn baby can finally come home. Once you get a chance to sit down and relax after the excitement of meeting your baby for the first time, reality can come quickly.
As a new mama, you are starting a new chapter of your life, one that is going to come with new responsibilities like breastfeeding or bottle-feeding and changing diapers, along with your other daily activities! This is likely a time of lots of joy, but it is also completely normal to feel overwhelmed while balancing it all.
In addition, your body is experiencing a major change both physically and emotionally, known as postpartum. Mama, this newborn phase will go by quickly, and as there are some difficulties as you adjust to the changes, there are also many moments of happiness to be had.
At Stork Helpers, we are here to encourage and guide you through these beautiful new experiences.
In this blog post, we will explain what postpartum is and why it is significant for mamas and their partners to be aware of, what postpartum depression and anxiety are and how to identify them, and simple ways to support mama during this part of her pregnancy journey.
What is Postpartum, and Why is it Significant?
Postpartum refers to the period following childbirth, typically the first six weeks after giving birth. Also known as the newborn stage. Mama, this is a critical time as you, your newborn, and your partner all adapt to the changes that come with the new addition to your family.
This time may include lots of exciting and cherished moments that include snuggling with your baby, introducing your little one to your friends and extended family, lots of picture-taking, late nights and early mornings rocking your baby to sleep, bedtime stories, and more!
The first six weeks of bringing home your baby are a time in your life you’ll never forget. You will feel things you’ve never felt before, including feeling feverishly delirious after a sleepless night or even riding an emotional high after seeing your baby smile for the first time. These are moments you’ll relish for years to come.
It is important to be aware that postpartum can also bring about various physical and emotional changes that may include hormonal fluctuations, fatigue, or even mental health issues.
Some of the common physical changes to your body that you may notice are minor swelling in your legs, hair loss, breast engorgement, etc. These physical changes will vary with each mama but are typically not permanent.
Your hormones may fluctuate, causing you to experience extreme moments of happiness or even sadness, also referred to as “baby blues.”
“Baby blues” are where you may experience mild sadness, varying degrees of being overwhelmed, or feelings of thinking you are incapable of being a good mama. It can be caused by dips in your hormone levels, iron deficiencies, or even a decline in community support.
The “baby blues” typically begin 2-3 days postpartum and can last up to two weeks.
Ultimately, postpartum is different for every mama, and it is important for your partner to be supportive throughout this period.
By making your partner aware of what is going on with your body and emotions during postpartum they will be able to better understand the kind of support you desire and need during this time.
What is Postpartum Depression or Anxiety?
If you are feeling continual sadness beyond a couple of weeks, you may have postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is a mood disorder. Several mamas may develop this common disorder due to feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion.
Depression can make it difficult for you to bond with your baby and may even interfere with your ability to function in your daily life. In severe cases, postpartum depression can even lead to thoughts of self-harm or harm to the baby.
It is important for you to be aware of your mental health during the postpartum period so that you can get the help you may need. Getting help could include therapy, medication, and the support of loved ones, including your partner, friends, and family.
By addressing your mental health issues, you can work towards better emotional well-being for yourself and your baby.
How to Identify Postpartum Depression or Anxiety
Signs and symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety can be subtle and may vary from mama to mama. Some common signs to look for include excessive sadness, racing thoughts, disrupted sleep, difficulty bonding with the baby, and more!
You may feel withdrawn from others, have trouble concentrating, experience mood swings, and feel overwhelming guilt or worthlessness. If you feel a sense of hopelessness, fear, or panic that becomes unmanageable and disrupts your daily life, it may be time to get help.
If you are experiencing symptoms or if your partner notices some of these things, it's important to seek help from a healthcare professional. We recognize how difficult it can be to realize you may need help, but you are not alone. Several mamas are experiencing similar feelings.
At Stork Helpers, we want you to know that we are also here to support you and provide compassionate guidance to help you navigate the challenges you may be facing.
We are a community of understanding mamas ready to rally behind you.
Remember, you don't have to go through this alone.
Postpartum Partner Support
As a partner, there are several simple ways you can provide support during postpartum.
Below, we have outlined some ideas to consider, including emotional support, practical assistance with daily tasks, and quality time together as a couple or as a family unit.
1. Emotional Support:
Compassion during postpartum is crucial for a new mama's mental and emotional well-being. This includes actively listening to her feelings, empathizing with her struggles, and providing reassurance and encouragement.
It also involves being patient and understanding as she navigates the physical and emotional changes that come with childbirth and motherhood.
You can provide a safe and non-judgmental space for her to express her emotions and offer comfort and understanding during this challenging time.
2. Practical Assistance with Daily Task:
Completing tasks is another important way you can support Mama during postpartum. This can include helping with household chores, running errands, or taking care of the baby to allow your partner to rest and recover.
By easing the burden of everyday responsibilities, you can help alleviate Mamas stress giving her time to focus on her well-being.
3. Quality Time Together as a Couple and as a Family Unit:
This is vital for building a strong support system. This can involve bonding with the newborn as a family, engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation, and nurturing your relationship as a couple.
Spending quality time together helps foster a sense of connection, unity, and happiness during the challenging postpartum period.
At Stork Helpers, We Support You
During the postpartum period, your partner's support can be instrumental in your overall physical and emotional well-being.
The presence of a supportive partner can provide much-needed reassurance, help with household tasks, and emotional support during a time of vulnerability and adjustment. However, not all new mamas have reliable or available partners, and that's where Stork Helpers can step in.
At Stork Helpers, we offer professional guidance and support to new mamas during the postpartum period. We can fill the gaps for those who may not have a partner readily available or for those who simply need additional assistance and guidance.
We can provide information to help with newborn care, offer emotional support through the challenges of motherhood, and give mamas the confidence to navigate the early stages of parenthood.
In addition, we can help you combat the “baby blues” by providing you with placenta encapsulation.
If you want to learn more about placenta encapsulation, click here!
It is our goal that each new mama has access to the support they need during this beautiful and chaotic time of their lives. If you would like more support for any reason in Cincinnati or Dayton, click here to reach out to Tamara at Stork Helpers today!
Follow Stork Helpers on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for more tips on postpartum, placenta encapsulation, and pregnancy guidance.
Happy with the difference Stork Helpers made in your pregnancy journey? Leave us a quick five-star review here!
