Hey mama,
We spend so much time preparing for birth—reading the books, packing the bags, taking the classes—but what about after the baby arrives?
That window of time after birth, often called the fourth trimester, is tender, raw, and transformative. And yet, it’s the part we plan for the least.
But here’s what I want you to know:
You don’t have to just “get through” postpartum. You deserve to be held, nourished, and supported as you heal and adjust to this new season of life.
Let’s talk about what postpartum planning really looks like—and how to set yourself up for more peace, rest, and support when baby is here.
What Is the Fourth Trimester?
The fourth trimester refers to the first 12 weeks after birth. It’s a sacred window of time where:
- Your body is recovering from pregnancy and birth
- Your hormones are shifting dramatically
- You’re bonding with and feeding your baby around the clock
- Your identity is evolving in deep and unexpected ways
This isn’t just recovery—it’s rebirth.
And just like you wouldn’t enter labor without a plan, the same care should go into preparing for postpartum.
What Most New Moms Wish They’d Known
So many of my clients have said:
- “I had no idea how intense the recovery would be.”
- “I thought I’d feel like myself after a couple weeks.”
- “I planned so much for birth, but nothing for the days after.”
This is why postpartum planning matters.
It’s not about controlling every detail. It’s about creating a soft landing so you can heal, connect, and breathe.
What to Include in Your Postpartum Plan
Here are some essential things to think about before baby arrives:
✧ Support System
- Who can come help during the first few weeks?
- Do you want visitors—or quiet bonding time?
- Would a postpartum doula be helpful?
✧ Rest & Recovery
- Plan for the first 40 days as a time of rest, warmth, and slow healing
- Set up a cozy nursing/baby care station
- Prep your bedroom and bathroom with supplies: pads, peri bottle, nipple balm, extra snacks, etc.
✧ Nourishment
- Prepare freezer meals or arrange a meal train
- Stock up on nourishing, living foods: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, etc.
- Keep snacks and a water bottle nearby at all times
✧ Emotional Support
- Know the signs of baby blues vs. postpartum depression/anxiety
- Schedule check-ins with your partner or a trusted friend
- Line up a therapist or counselor if needed
✧ Feeding Support
- If you plan to breastfeed, connect with a lactation consultant ahead of time
- Create a plan for bottle-feeding if that’s your choice
- Remember: fed is best, and you matter too
✧ Household Logistics
- Delegate cleaning, errands, and other tasks for the first few weeks
- Set up auto-pay on bills if needed
- Give yourself permission to let go of perfection
What I Offer as a Postpartum Doula
When you hire me through Labor of Love, here’s what postpartum support can look like:
- 4-hour day or night shifts tailored to your needs
- Help with feeding, newborn care, and emotional check-ins
- Support for older siblings
- Light meal prep and household help so you can rest
- Birth story processing and gentle emotional support
- Guidance with babywearing, sleeping, and self-care practices
This isn’t just “extra help”—it’s holistic, intentional care so you don’t have to do this alone.
How to Prepare Now
You can:
- Book a Free Postpartum Consult to see how I can support your family
- Start having honest conversations with your partner and circle of support
And remember: you don’t have to wait until you’re struggling to ask for help.
A Final Word from My Heart to Yours
You are not expected to bounce back. You are not supposed to do it all. You are not meant to pour from an empty cup.
You are meant to be held.
Plan now for the kind of care you would give a friend—because you are worthy of that same softness.
With love,
Jamie
Labor of Love for Birth & Beyond
