Congratulations on your new baby! While the focus is often on your beautiful newborn, it's important to remember that you're going through a major transition, too. The first week postpartum is an intense period of adjustment, recovery, and, let’s be honest, a bit of a rollercoaster. Here’s what to expect during those first seven days and how to take care of yourself while caring for your newborn.
Your Body is in Recovery Mode
After delivery, your body is working hard to heal and adjust. Whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section, there’s no denying that your body has gone through a significant event. Here’s what you can expect:
Bleeding (Lochia)
You’ll experience heavy bleeding similar to a very heavy period, especially in the first few days. This is your body’s way of shedding the lining of your uterus. To manage this, it’s helpful to have heavy-duty pads on hand. Disposable underwear, like Hazel’s High & Dry Briefs, are a lifesaver – they’re comfortable, convenient, and take the worry out of leaks.
Cramping
You might feel cramping as your uterus begins to shrink back to its pre-pregnancy size. These cramps, known as “afterpains,” can be especially noticeable during breastfeeding.
So, What Even Is It?
The pelvic floor is a diamond-shape (how apropos) group of muscles that sits at the base of your pelvis where the bladder, rectum, and uterus come together – like a sling supporting those organs!
Swelling
Swelling in your legs and feet is common, especially if you received IV fluids during labor. Elevating your feet and staying hydrated can help ease the swelling.
Emotional Ups and Downs
Your hormones are in flux, and that can lead to a whirlwind of emotions. One moment you may feel elated, the next, overwhelmed. This is completely normal. The “baby blues” can affect up to 80% of new mothers and it usually peaks around the third or fourth day postpartum.
“I remember this day vividly. It was right around the time my milk came in. My friend had warned me this was the worst day for her. So as my husband held me, I was sobbing and shaking and saying.. I made it to the next phase… It was a complete out-of-body experience. 1 or 2 days later, I was fine!” - Aubrey, Hazel Co-Founder
“For my second, everything was going great with the baby and my physical recovery but I just felt off. My toddler was driving me nuts (much much more than usual). I didn’t know what would happen if I said ‘I think I have postpartum depression’ out loud. You know what?! Nothing bad happened! I sent my doc a message and got some help.” - Melissa, Co-Founder Villie
Baby blues goes away, but if you are still feeling off after a few days check out Postpartum Support International, this org has a free hotline (and textline!)
Stay Connected
Talk about how you’re feeling with someone you trust, whether it’s your partner, a friend, or a healthcare provider. If you’re feeling more than just a little down, don’t hesitate to seek help—postpartum depression is common, and support is available.
Take a Breath of Fresh Air
You should not be moving around much in this first week. It’s seriously a great time to go nowhere. But never underestimate the power of fresh air. So open a window, or sit on a balcony or a porch.
Know When You Need Professional Help
If your thoughts don’t feel right, or just off in a way you can’t articulate, reach out to your doctor or call the Postpartum Support International hotline at 1-800-944-4773. They’ll know how to listen and help.
Feeding Your Baby Is Hard—But It Gets Easier
Feeding your newborn is one of the biggest challenges in the first week, whether you’re breastfeeding, formula feeding, or doing a combination of both. This first week, babies need to eat around the clock every 2-3 hours. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Breastfeeding
It might take a few days for your milk to come in. During this time, your baby is getting colostrum, a nutrient-rich “first milk.” Latching can be tricky, so don’t hesitate to ask for help from a lactation consultant. These visits are usually covered by insurance so ask your pediatrician, OB and local mom friends (or group) for recommendations. One good resource if you just want to read is KellyMom.
Formula Feeding
If you’re formula feeding, it’s about finding the right formula and getting into a feeding routine that works for you and your baby. Learn more here.
Combo Feeding
Well this one is easy - it’s when you do any combination of both breastfeeding and bottle feeding. Learn more here.
Self-Care is Baby Care
Taking care of yourself is essential. Recruit others to take care of you too. This first week is not just about the baby. You are special too.
Get Rest
“Sleep when the baby sleeps” is a common piece of advice, but it’s pretty silly and not always doable. The first week often feels like a blur of feedings, diaper changes, and trying to catch a few moments of rest. Prioritize sleep whenever you can and don’t hesitate to ask for help.
“Hey, can you hold the baby while I go take a shower and a nap?”
Set Up a Support System
Whether it's family, friends, or a postpartum doula, don’t hesitate to lean on your village for meals, household chores, or even just holding the baby while you take a nap. Support makes a world of difference. Here are 50+ ways you can ask for help.
Start a Baby Page by Villie
Villie is on a mission to help you create a village around your baby. Think of it as an easy way to communicate with your loved ones, privately share your photos, registries and events and you can ask for help. Oh, and there are games! Check it out, it’s free!
Self-Care Essentials
Your recovery is just as important as your baby’s care. Here are a few tips to help you feel more like yourself during this time:
Disposable Underwear
As mentioned earlier, disposable and leakproof underwear like Hazel's High & Dry Briefs are a postpartum must-have. They’re designed for both comfort and convenience, giving you one less thing to worry about in those first few days.
Perineal Care
If you had a vaginal delivery, you may experience soreness or stitches. Use a peri bottle with warm water to clean the area after using the bathroom, and consider using witch hazel pads to soothe any discomfort.
C-Section Care
If you had a c-section, you’re probably numb and starting to feel sore. Check out a belly binder to help you feel snug and supported.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Keep water and healthy snacks nearby, especially if you’re breastfeeding, as you’ll likely feel hungrier than usual. And keep those snacks near where you feed.
Eat warm foods like oatmeal, slow cooked meat and lasagne or sign up for a service like Chiyo.
Welcome to the Mom Club!
Postpartum, especially the first week, is a time of immense change, and it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions. Take care of yourself, lean on your support system, and equip yourself with essentials. Focus on your recovery while bonding with your new baby—you’re doing an amazing job.