Postpartum Care
‘Ancient postpartum traditions from throughout the world—while specific to the cultural context in which they come—all share deep common roots. These postpartum traditions all point to the importance of an extended resting period, warmth, nourishing foods, bodywork and community after birth. These commonalities of postpartum traditions throughout the world are not a coincidence—they are rooted in women’s physiologic design.
‘Physiologic Birth’ is understood and defined in the birth community as: “Birth that is powered by the innate human capacity of the woman and the fetus. This birth is more likely to be safe and healthy because there is no unnecessary intervention that disrupts normal physiologic processes.’
The same phenomenon is true for the postpartum period. We have a physiologic design of what our needs are postpartum in order for ‘optimal results’ to be achieved.
The ‘optimal results’ in regards to the postpartum period is not just the survival of Mother and Baby—rather the THRIVING of Mother and Baby.
We have been surviving as Mothers and babies in modern times, but on a whole we have not been thriving. When Mothers thrive, families thrive. When families thrive, communities thrive. When communities thrive, so too does our beautiful Earth. We ‘take care of’ the future generations by properly ‘taking care’ of women during the childbearing continuum.’ via INNATE Traditions
These books offer a wealth of knowledge and practical advice for holistic postpartum care, helping new mothers navigate the challenges and joys of early motherhood.
1. "The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother" by Heng Ou, Amely Greeven, and Marisa Belger*
- This book focuses on the crucial first 40 days postpartum, offering recipes, wellness tips, and insights into the traditions of postpartum care from around the world. It emphasizes the importance of rest, nutrition, and support during the early weeks after childbirth.
- This guide provides practical advice on physical recovery, emotional health, and bonding with the baby. It includes exercises, nutrition tips, and strategies for dealing with common postpartum challenges.
- This book offers a holistic approach to pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care. It includes advice on self-care, mental health, and creating a support system, along with practical tips for the early days of motherhood.
4. "The Positive Birth Book: A New Approach to Pregnancy, Birth and the Early Weeks" by Milli Hill
- While primarily focused on pregnancy and birth, this book also covers the postpartum period, providing information on physical recovery, mental health, and bonding with the baby. It encourages a positive and empowered approach to motherhood.
5. "Mindful Mama: Happy Baby" by Izzy Judd
- This book combines mindfulness practices with practical advice for the postpartum period. It includes tips on dealing with stress, enhancing emotional well-being, and fostering a positive relationship with the baby.