By: Lisa Hartman
As a seasoned mother of two and a lactation consultant, my top recommendation for expectant parents is to prioritize postpartum support. The reality is, the postpartum phase can be far more challenging than many mothers anticipate. Unfortunately, too often, expectant parents focus on creating the ideal birth plan or setting up a beautiful nursery, neglecting the crucial preparations needed for the postpartum period.
I strongly encourage mothers to consider hiring a postpartum doula or baby nurse if possible, or to enlist a trusted family member to help during this time. It’s essential for new mothers to secure as much maternity leave as they can and advocate for paternity leave for their partners. If breastfeeding is in the plans, having a reliable lactation consultant’s contact number on hand is vital, as many new moms require assistance or reassurance in that area.
This guidance isn’t just friendly advice; research supports the idea that these actions significantly enhance the likelihood of a positive postpartum experience. For instance, taking maternity leave for more than a few weeks can improve breastfeeding success rates and reduce the risk of postpartum depression. Paternity leave not only aids mothers with immediate baby care and household tasks but also fosters ongoing involvement from fathers in family responsibilities.
While it may seem obvious, studies show that having access to a lactation consultant can significantly improve the initiation and duration of breastfeeding. Additionally, a strong support network of family and friends can greatly aid recovery—both physically and emotionally—after childbirth, lessening the likelihood of postpartum mood disorders.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that not every mother can access these resources. Life circumstances may prevent some from implementing this advice. Many women are unable to take maternity leave, and when they do, it often amounts to little more than a few weeks—sometimes with uncertain pay. Paternity leave is even scarcer, with most fathers receiving only a few days off, if any.
Postpartum doulas and baby nurses, while incredibly valuable, can be quite expensive, as can many lactation consultants. While some mothers have family support, many do not, leading to a harsh reality: not all mothers can experience the postpartum period filled with love, support, and nourishing meals.
This disparity is fundamentally unjust. The ability to enjoy a supportive postpartum experience should not be a privilege reserved for a select few. It’s not due to a lack of effort or requests for help; it stems from a systemic failure to support new mothers adequately. In many European countries, services like postpartum assistance, counseling, and lactation support are readily available at no cost. In contrast, in America, these essential services are not guaranteed, forcing mothers to seek them out independently. If a new mother can only secure a week or two of maternity leave? Unfortunately, that’s just how it is. Recovering from a C-section and needing help? Without family nearby or funds to hire assistance, many are left to manage alone.
We must strive for better, ensuring that postpartum support and resources are accessible to all women, not just the fortunate few. Every mother deserves to transition into motherhood with the necessary help and compassion to feel healthy and happy.
If you’re interested in learning more about navigating your journey, explore additional resources like Progyny’s blog and consider useful tools like fertility supplements from Make a Mom, as they can provide valuable assistance.
In summary, the postpartum experience should be a universal right rather than a privilege. Access to support and resources is essential for all mothers, and we must advocate for a system that provides this for everyone.