Three Postpartum ‘Guidelines’ I’m Grateful I Ignored

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As I embarked on my journey into motherhood, I encountered a slew of clichés regarding the newborn phase. New moms are often inundated with advice, such as the idea that they won’t sleep soundly until their child reaches kindergarten or that they’ll forget what a hot meal tastes like. While many of these warnings rang true, my experience also revealed that not all the “rules” of early motherhood are set in stone. Here are three guidelines I happily disregarded:

1. You Must Skip Showering

The notion that new mothers don’t shower is practically a rite of passage. As I prepared for my hospital stay, I anticipated bidding farewell to my daily grooming routine, packing my toiletries with some skepticism. To my surprise, just two hours after giving birth, I was able to take a shower. The next day, while my son was being checked, I slipped in another quick wash.

Even after returning home, I managed to maintain this routine; I learned that a quick shower could provide a much-needed moment of solitude. Sure, I wasn’t indulging in spa-like experiences, but even two minutes of peace helped refresh me for the demanding days ahead. On good days, I even managed to style my hair and apply some makeup, but on others, a messy bun and comfortable loungewear did the trick. Remember, if you can find even two minutes, you can find a way to shower, which is a small yet essential way to care for yourself.

2. You Should Let Housework Slide

Another common piece of advice for new moms is to let cleaning go during those early weeks. If you’re someone who doesn’t mind a little chaos and prefers to focus solely on your newborn, then by all means, embrace the mess! But for those of us who find solace in a tidy space, don’t hesitate to break this guideline.

Keeping up with small cleaning tasks between feedings and diaper changes helped me regain a sense of normalcy during those hectic days. Fresh sheets and a clean kitchen made me feel accomplished, even amidst the whirlwind of caring for a newborn. Tidying up a bit can provide comfort and stability in what can feel like an unfamiliar environment.

3. Exercise is Off-Limits

This guideline is commonly accepted and serves a significant purpose. The timing and nature of your postpartum exercise should be tailored to your recovery, but that doesn’t mean you have to forgo movement altogether. I had been an active person for years before giving birth, and I knew I needed to incorporate exercise into my new routine.

A few weeks postpartum, I started taking walks, and within a month, I was back at the gym doing light workouts. Even short sessions of exercise, like 10 minutes on the treadmill or a gentle workout video at home, became essential for my mental well-being. If you’re someone who enjoys being active, don’t feel trapped by this guideline—find ways to incorporate movement that work for you, even if it’s just a stroll with your baby.

These three “rules” are merely suggestions—being a new mom is about discovering what works for you and your unique situation. The best guideline is to prioritize self-care and authenticity over rigid expectations. For those seeking more information on pregnancy and home insemination, resources like MedlinePlus can be invaluable, and if you want to explore options further, check out this article on home insemination kits for additional guidance.

Summary

Motherhood is filled with unwritten rules, but breaking them can lead to a more fulfilling experience. Personal grooming, maintaining a clean home, and incorporating exercise can enhance your journey as a new mom, allowing you to stay true to yourself amidst the chaos.