It’s typical for pregnant women to make plans for how they will deliver and care for their newborns. Toward the end of pregnancy, many can answer questions like whether they plan to breastfeed or how long they will take maternity leave. But questions about postpartum recovery, such as what physical changes to expect after birth or where to turn for breastfeeding support, are often much harder to answer.
This imbalance reflects a broader cultural tendency to prioritize newborn needs over maternal recovery. As a result, many women enter the postpartum period unprepared for the physical, emotional, and mental demands of recovery. This early postpartum window, often referred to as the “first 42 days,” is a critical time for healing and long-term well-being.
Why Postpartum Preparedness is Important
Research shows that many women feel unprepared for the physical and emotional challenges of postpartum recovery, highlighting the need for better education and planning.1
Aeroflow Breastpump’s recent survey about postpartum recovery highlighted women’s lack of education and resources for postpartum life.1 In this survey of 394 U.S. mothers, nearly half reported feeling unprepared for what to expect and how to care for their bodies during the first six postpartum weeks. Additionally, two-thirds shared that the postpartum period was more difficult than they had anticipated.
Postpartum struggles were common and included difficulties with breastfeeding (66%), postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety (48%), lack of social support or feelings of isolation (39%), newborn care (28%), and complications or concerns related to postpartum healing (24%). Overall, 90% of respondents felt that the current system for educating mothers about postpartum recovery and available resources needs improvement.
The first 42 days represent a period of significant physical, mental, and emotional transition for new mothers. For this reason, women benefit from understanding what to expect during this time, including the following:
- Physical changes, which may include uterine cramping, vaginal and rectal soreness or pain, breast pain, edema or swelling of the extremities, and bladder control issues. Hormonal shifts after birth can also lead to night sweats that interfere with sleep.
- C-section recovery, which carries risks such as wound healing concerns and infection.
- Breastfeeding-related challenges, including engorgement, latching difficulties, and uterine cramping due to hormones released during lactation. These challenges can also contribute to increased stress and anxiety.
- Emotional and mood changes related to hormonal shifts. The “baby blues” typically begin within the first three to four days after delivery and resolve by the end of the second postpartum week. Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or stress that begin later than two weeks postpartum may signal a postpartum mental health disorder such as depression or anxiety.
Related: C-Section Recovery: Week-by-Week Guide for Healing After Birth
How to Prepare for the Postpartum Period
Pregnant women must learn about resources to help them heal and recover from childbirth. This is evidenced by additional findings in Aeroflow’s survey, which demonstrate that over 75% of new mothers reported not being given any information or guidance about medical devices that may aid in recovery. In addition, 25% reported not having access to the necessary care to address their struggles during their postpartum recoveries.1
Preparation for a mother’s recovery during the first 42 days may include the following:
Stock Up on Supplies
Preparing postpartum recovery supplies ahead of time can help ease the transition after birth. These include pads, peri bottles, Sitz bath basins, stool softeners, comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, and breastfeeding supplies (such as breast pads, lanolin cream, nursing bras, nursing pillows, and a breast pump, if needed). Medical devices that can help with recovery include FDA-approved postpartum recovery support garments.
Related: Postpartum Essentials: What You Really Need for Mom and Baby
Educate Yourself About Physical Changes
Learning to distinguish between expected postpartum changes and concerning symptoms can help mothers seek care when it’s truly needed. Concerning symptoms that require medical attention, such as contacting an OB/GYN or midwife, include passing large blood clots (golf ball size or larger), soaking through a thick pad in less than one hour, developing a fever, experiencing worsening leg swelling, or feeling that you may be struggling with a postpartum mental health concern.
Arrange for Plenty of Help
Arrange for help during the postpartum period in advance. This can include asking friends and loved ones to prepare meals, help with housework, laundry, and yard work, and assist with childcare. Postpartum doulas can also be an excellent source of support and assistance with newborn care and household tasks, allowing new moms to get some rest.
Plan to Give Yourself Grace
Make sure to have realistic expectations for recovery and newborn care. And be gentle with yourself if newborn care, breastfeeding, weight loss, or plans to be productive on maternity leave do not go as planned or desired.
Sign Up for Support Groups
Learn about resources for moms. These include support groups for new mothers (in-person and online), lactation and breastfeeding support resources, researching counselors and therapists specializing in maternal mental health, postpartum recovery programs, books, and exploring websites focused on postpartum recovery, new motherhood, and the first 42 days.
Don’t Forget to Schedule Self-Care
Recognizing the importance of making time for “postpartum self-care.” Taking small, frequent breaks for activities such as walking, reading, getting outside, or taking a bath can significantly impact mothers’ overall health, well-being, and postpartum recovery journeys.
The first 42 days after birth represent one of the most significant transitions in a woman’s life. This period is critical for physical recovery, emotional adjustment, and overall healing following childbirth.
Preparing for this transition during pregnancy helps ensure that mothers have the resources and support in place to prioritize rest, recovery, and well-being, along with the care of their babies.
