The Postnatal Plan
No matter if you had one or not, almost everyone has heard about the „birth plan“. But what happens when the baby is here? As much as we like to plan our birth we often tend to forget about the after. The time when sh*t well and truly hits the fan: the postnatal period. When several days merge into one, no one knows what clothes are clean and nappies are scattered through the whole house. It’s a trying time, physically and emotionally. So why not plan ahead? Planning your postnatal period can not just set expectations and save you from disappointment but also guarantee you the help you need.
But hat goes on your postnatal plan? That’s really up to you! Whatever you need goes. Some topics are more a mental preparation while others are worth a written note- but here’s a rough layout of what people typically find helpful:
Support networks. rather than hoping that people will just show up, make sure to communicate and ask if they would be willing to help and at what capacity. Ask what they would be comfortable doing. This can be light household chores such as washing, preparing meals, taking older children to the park, grocery shopping, school runs, taking the dog for a walk or even just holding baby so mum can have a shower.
Be clear about visitors. Some people want to stay in their bubble for as long as possible, others happily welcome the whole neighborhood as soon as baby is home. For some it might need a bit more planning - especially if siblings are involved. Think about who you want to come over first and how often you are willing to have visitors.
Meals. While getting to know your baby, meal planning and cooking is often the last thing on your list. Nutrition is important, especially after birth, so living off toast and chocolate is - let’s say- not ideal. Plan ahead and freeze some meals, build a freezer stash or ask friends & family if they would be able to drop off some fresh meals. alternatively order from meal prep companies such as hello fresh or gousto.
Feeding plan. if you plan on breastfeeding, have a look at resources around you. breastfeeding can be tricky and looking for help while living in the postnatal haze can easily be overwhelming. Look for IBCLC’s, breastfeeding counsellors or breastfeeding cafe’s in your area and note them on your plan. That way all that is left to do is contacting them when you need help.
If you plan on bottle feeding, think about a feeding, cleaning and sterilizing schedule. Will the feeding be shared with someone else? You could also plan on a rota for night and day feedings between you and your partner.
self care. This one is a hard one but it is SO important. Set away some time for yourself, that can be a nice shower, a nap, an uninterrupted meal. whatever rocks your boat. let someone take the baby for a walk so you can REALLY be focused on yourself.
Emotional wellbeing and support. have a look around what baby groups are available in your area. Try to meet and connect with mums-to-be that have a similar due date like yours. Those 4:00 am text messages while you are both awake for the 10th feed of the night just hit different. Postpartum can feel very lonely and isolating and having someone who goes through the same phases as you is incredibly comforting.
Appointments. this is especially important if you are planning on an elective caesarean since you won’t be able to drive a car for 6 weeks after. Plan who can drive you to and from all necessary appointments, and who is available for ad hoc driving if something comes up.
Understand hormonal changes. A lot is happening after birth and its not always easy to digest. be aware of the massive hormonal changes and make yourself familiar with the baby blues and postnatal depression so you know the signs and how to get help. Another good way to work through your birth is to book a birth de-brief whenever you are ready.
Ready to write your postnatal plan? I created a handy planner for you to download here so you can write down everything you need and start planning!