Dear Aunty Tina, What can I do to prepare for the first month after giving birth?
Each birth is unique and so is the recovery period immediately following baby’s arrival. It is physical, spiritual, and hard work. It is good to create a support team ahead of time and have some postpartum preparedness. Delegate your friends, family, and community in preparing meals, house chores, and childcare if there are other children. Eat quality food, always have a drink handy, continue to take prenatal vitamins, and sleep when the baby sleeps. All these things along with light exercise will contribute greatly to hormonal balance and your healing.
Life demands will be exhausting at times, and can affect your outlook on your role as a mother and partner. Be aware that some mood changes happen with hormonal flux, so do not hesitate to talk someone. If these symptoms last longer than a day or two, speak with a doctor or counselor, as it could be a sign of postpartum depression.
