Caring for mothers postpartum

In a recent Instagram post I was talking about the importance of caring for new mothers and their need to be held - a need that is equal to, if not more important than, the need of holding the new baby.​

No matter how much preparation you have done, giving birth is a life-altering experience in every way possible. And however ‘easy’ or ‘difficult’ the birthing process was, there is trauma involved - to the physical body definitely, but also mentally and emotionally. 
When a new mother feels supported they receive a boost of oxytocin - a hormone that plays a major role in social bonding, childbirth, and in postpartum. This can help with the production of breastmilk, reducing stress, and increasing the bond with baby. There is anthropological evidence supporting levels of oxytocin are much higher in women who live in close proximity to family or who are closely connected to their community. For many of us, this is no longer the case. Families are separated by great distances and we are so ‘busy’ with our day-to-day lives that we have lost all sense of ‘community’. 

So, how can we begin to bring this much needed love and care to new mothers? 
Here’s a list of simple ways to begin fostering a sense of connection and community, and to give lots of love to new mamas.


FOOD

It can be extremely challenging to feed yourself and your family in the immediate postpartum. Bringing nourishing food can be the greatest gift!
Check in with the family to see if there are any food preferences or avoidances. A cooler can be left outside the family’s door so as not to disturb mama and babe during meal delivery.

-bring a meal (or 2 or 3) 
-organize a meal train-this will allow family and friends to deliver meals on a schedule
-gift certificates for local restaurants or food box delivery services 
-pick up and deliver some groceries
-don’t forget snacks and treats!


HOUSEHOLD

Are their other children in the home? Pets? They might not be getting the full attention that they are used to and could use some love too!

-offer to take older children on excursions - the park, a play centre, a movie etc
-if school-aged, help getting kids to and from school
-organize play dates
-pet the cat (if they’re into that), take the dog for a walk, and check if they need food too!
-summer - cut the grass, winter - shovel the snow
-help with laundry, dishes, and other light housecleaning


SELF-CARE
The birther has just been through a physically/mentally/emotionally draining experience. They need time to rest in order to recover. 

-offer to watch baby so mama can have a shower or bath
-watch baby so mama can have a much needed nap
-foot rubs and head massages can be deeply relaxing
-gifts of massage (bonus if the therapist does home visits)
-make endless cups of tea and give her space to talk about her experience (and just listen!)


As you can see from the above lists, it is the simple, small things that can make a huge difference for a new mama and her family. These are just a few ideas, maybe you can think of others that would be helpful, or things specific to the new mamas in your life. 
Whatever you are able to contribute would be much appreciated, I assure you. 

This is a sacred time, let’s start treating it as such. 
xox
Wise Roots Therapies, January 12 2020