Sometimes, taking the first step to getting help looks like sitting down and figuring out what exactly you need.
Birth Plan
Birth plans are important because they help you communicate your preferences and expectations for labor and delivery to your healthcare team. While the unexpected can always happen, a birth plan can guide your care and ensure that your wishes are considered.
A 2022 study found that implementing a birth plan significantly improved the birthing experience, and yielded improved postpartum depression and PTSD scores. Birth plans are also helpful to:
Clarify Preferences: It allows you to articulate your preferences for things like pain management, who you want present, and any specific procedures you do or don’t want.
Facilitate Communication: It opens a dialogue with your healthcare provider about what you want and helps you understand their approach and any potential limitations.
Reduces Stress: Knowing that your preferences are documented can reduce anxiety and give you a sense of control over the process.
Prepare for the Unexpected: While things may not go exactly as planned, having a birth plan helps ensure that your priorities are considered if changes become necessary.
Involve Your Support System: It helps your support people understand your wishes and advocate for you if needed.
Remember, flexibility is key; a birth plan is a guideline rather than a strict rulebook.
We recommend Earth Mama Organics’ Free Birth Plan.
Postpartum Plan & Assessment
Unfortunately, two-thirds of U.S. pregnancy-related deaths occur during the postpartum period. A postpartum plan and ongoing assessment of stress and confidence levels are crucial for several reasons:
Smooth Transition: The postpartum period can be overwhelming with physical recovery, hormonal changes, and the demands of a newborn. A well-thought-out postpartum plan helps you anticipate and manage these challenges, making the transition smoother.
Mental Health: Monitoring and addressing stress and confidence levels is essential for your mental well-being. Postpartum depression and anxiety are common, and being aware of your emotional state helps you seek support early if needed.
Support System: A postpartum plan can include arrangements for help from family, friends, or professional services. This support is vital for managing daily tasks and taking care of yourself.
Self-Care: Your plan can outline self-care strategies, including rest, nutrition, and activities that help you recharge. Regularly assessing how you’re feeling helps ensure you’re taking the time for self-care and not neglecting your own needs.
Adjusting Expectations: As you experience the realities of postpartum life, your initial plan might need adjustments. Regularly assessing your stress and confidence levels helps you make necessary changes to your plan and expectations.
Bonding and Adjustment: Understanding your emotional state and seeking help when needed can positively impact your ability to bond with your baby and adjust to your new role.
Overall, a postpartum plan combined with ongoing self-assessment ensures that you’re better prepared to handle the complexities of the postpartum period and maintain your well-being. Check out our recommendations below:
Earth Mama Organics - Postpartum Lying-In Plan
Postpartum Progress - New Mom Mental Health Checklist (English)
Postpartum Progress - New Mom Mental Health Checklist (Spanish)
