5 Reasons Why Every First-Time Mom Needs a Postpartum Plan
Have you ever stopped to think about what happens after you bring your little one home? Sure, you’ve probably nailed down the nursery, picked out your birth plan, and bought all the cute baby clothes (that will likely be covered in spit-up). But here’s the thing: The postpartum period can be just as important as the pregnancy itself—if not more. And yet, it's often overlooked.
As a first-time mom, you might be thinking, “I’ll just figure it out when the time comes,” or, “How bad can it be?” But trust me, preparing for postpartum is just as essential as preparing for baby’s arrival. That’s why I’m here to share five solid reasons why every first-time mom needs a postpartum plan. I promise this isn’t just another item to add to your to-do list. This kind of plan helps you thrive, not just survive, as you adjust to the new (and often overwhelming) life ahead.
In this episode, we will cover:
The top reasons why every first-time mom needs to prioritize postpartum planning.
Why having a postpartum plan can make a world of difference in your recovery and well-being.
How preparing for postpartum in advance can help you avoid overwhelm and burnout.
… and a whole lot more!
If you’re ready to take control of your postpartum recovery and set yourself up for success, then this episode is for you!
1. Your Physical Recovery Needs Attention
It’s tempting to pour all your energy into baby care, but don’t forget: your recovery matters too. Your body has just been through an incredible (and intense) journey, and it needs time, care, and attention to heal. Whether it’s addressing pelvic floor health, healing from a C-section, or catching up on much-needed rest, focusing on your recovery helps you feel stronger and more capable of taking on postpartum life.
Common Mistake: Skipping self-care essentials like scheduling pelvic floor therapy or visiting a chiropractor, which can delay recovery and increase discomfort.
Actionable Tip: Before your baby arrives, schedule postpartum appointments like pelvic floor therapy, chiropractic care, and follow-ups with your OB/GYN. Consider hiring a postpartum doula to help ease the physical and mental load of those early weeks.
2. Postpartum Mental Health Is Real, and It’s Okay to Need Help
Motherhood comes with emotional highs and lows, and sometimes those feelings can catch you off guard. While it’s normal to experience some shifts, don’t ignore signs of deeper struggles like postpartum anxiety (PPA) or depression (PPD). Being proactive about your mental health before your baby arrives can make all the difference in how supported you feel.
Common Mistake: Believing feelings of stress or sadness are “just part of motherhood” and not seeking help, which can lead to more serious struggles.
Actionable Tip: Compile a list of mental health resources, including therapists, support groups, or counselors, and plan for regular check-ins. Identify signs that you may need extra support—like feeling disconnected or overwhelmed—and share them with your partner or trusted friend.
3. Preparing Your Environment and Support System Helps Reduce Stress
Bringing your baby home should feel like a celebration, not a source of stress. But walking into a messy house or an unprepared support system can be overwhelming. Having your environment and support network ready ahead of time will help ease the transition.
Common Mistake: Underestimating the power of preparation—whether it’s having meals ready, a clean space, or clear expectations for help. Without it, exhaustion and frustration can creep in quickly.
Actionable Tip: Plan for postpartum by prepping freezer meals, setting up a rotating cleaning schedule, and lining up support from family or friends for baby care. Clearly communicate your needs—like meal drop-offs or laundry help—so you don’t feel like you’re doing it all alone.
4. A Postpartum Plan Helps You Set Realistic Expectations
It’s easy to imagine postpartum as picture-perfect, full of snuggles and peaceful moments, but reality often looks different. Babies can be unpredictable, and challenges like breastfeeding struggles or sleepless nights are common. Setting realistic expectations can prevent disappointment and help you feel more prepared when things don’t go according to plan.
Common Mistake: Setting the bar too high or expecting perfection, which can lead to guilt or feeling like you’re failing.
Actionable Tip: Give yourself grace and allow room for imperfection. Anticipate potential challenges—like latching difficulties or sleep disruptions—and plan for solutions, like consulting a lactation expert or creating a flexible schedule.
5. It’s Not Just About the Baby—It’s About You Too
Here’s a truth that often gets overlooked: You are more than just a mom. It’s easy to get caught up in your baby’s needs and forget your own, but taking care of yourself is not selfish—it’s essential. A mom who feels nourished, supported, and rested is better able to show up for her baby, her partner, and herself.
Common Mistake: Putting yourself last, which can lead to burnout, resentment, or feeling like you’ve lost yourself in motherhood.
Actionable Tip: Include your own needs in your postpartum plan, like scheduling regular “me time” or asking for help when you need it. This could mean enjoying a hobby, taking a weekly walk, or simply soaking in a quiet moment with a cup of coffee.
Your Next Step: Make a Postpartum Plan That’s All About YOU
You’ve got a lot on your plate right now—and it’s easy to feel like there’s always one more thing to add to your to-do list. But trust me, creating a postpartum plan is one of those tasks that will pay off in ways you can’t fully appreciate until you’ve had your baby and the reality of postpartum sets in.
You don’t have to do this alone, and you don’t have to figure it out when the baby arrives. By taking charge now, you’ll be setting yourself up for a smoother transition into motherhood, one where you feel empowered, confident, and—most importantly—supported.
Ready to take this a step further? Get my eBook, THE NEW MOM BLUEPRINT: TAKING CHARGE OF YOUR WELL-BEING, to help you get clear on your priorities and take charge of life with a newborn that feels aligned with you.
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