The postpartum phase is often a mystery to those not experiencing it. It’s even a mystery to me at times, because each postpartum experience is different! I think we focus a lot of energy on the physical needs of a postpartum mother. These are absolutely, 100%, without-a-doubt important. Bring her a meal, and nourish her soul too, right?
But, there are other needs that we often forget. Here’s an infographic we created to help remind us of these other needs as we interact with postpartum mothers. Use it as a guide as you prepare to visit a new mother:
Mom physically needs wholesome food. Bring a meal that’s warm and nutritious.
Mom emotionally needs openness and vulnerability. Ask her how she’s doing in a way that’s genuine. And if she seems open to it, be inquisitive to the challenges or concerns she alludes to.
Mom mentally needs quiet and stillness. Take your bells off before you go in, use a soft voice and maintain a peaceful presence.
Mom spiritually needs acknowledgement. Affirm everything she says and – if you feel comfortable – tell her how amazing you think she is for doing all she’s done: labor, childbirth, taking care of a newborn.
The list could go on and on. I think if we all used ideas like this when visiting postpartum mothers, we could forge strong connections and leave mothers feeling refreshing and nurtured, instead of depleted after hosting guests mostly interested in holding the new baby. Onward, support people! Go out there and bless new mothers everywhere.
How does Marabou support women?
We live in culture where “bouncing back” is more valued than proper rest. As admirable as it may be for a sports star to get back on the field, the same rules don’t apply to postpartum recovery. The traditional resting period has been stolen from women through pressure to get back to their job or simply through lack of presence.
Grandmas, sisters and best friends who otherwise would have been there to help a woman transition into motherhood often live too far away to be of any help. Household chores and caring for older children inevitably fall on the mom. But she just delivered a new life! She needs rest.
Marabou Services is a unique gift registry which provides services instead of stuff. Most mom’s get too many onesies, too many baby blankets and not enough helping hands. Break out of a destructive cultural norm and start a Marabou registry today.
With a Marabou registry you can sing up for any service which will benefit you or someone you know during the postpartum recovery period.
Postpartum doulas for a first time mom
House cleanings for moms of multiples
Childcare for moms with older children!
Once your registry is created, add it to any other registry or post it to your Facebook and ask friends and family contribute to your postpartum service, rather than buying you more stuff.
More and more moms find they have to figure out postpartum alone. Is it any wonder why PMDs are on the rise? Or women are embittered by the journey of motherhood? We can change that by giving the gift of peace.
