3 Simple Boundaries for a Happier Postpartum
Boundaries are one of the best gifts you can give yourself in postpartum. In a time when everyone has opinions, visitors are eager to drop by, and your energy is running on fumes, setting clear boundaries can help you protect your peace, your rest, and your well-being. The key? Being intentional about what (and who) you allow into your space during this season. Here are three simple but powerful boundaries that can make a huge difference in your postpartum experience.
In this episode, we will cover:
The three essential boundaries that will help protect your energy and well-being during postpartum.
Why establishing boundaries early can prevent overwhelm and promote a healthier recovery.
How to communicate your needs effectively with loved ones so you can create a supportive environment.
… and a whole lot more!
1. Prioritize Rest
Repeat after me: Rest is not a luxury. It’s a necessity. Your body just did the equivalent of running a marathon while simultaneously creating a brand-new human. That deserves some serious recovery time.
Setting the boundary that your rest is a priority means letting people know you are unavailable for anything that takes away from your recovery time. This might mean saying no to unnecessary commitments, limiting social engagements, and carving out time to sleep, nap, or just be still.
Example:
If someone asks, “Can I stop by real quick?” and you know you need rest, your response can be:
"I’d love to see you, but I’m prioritizing rest right now. Let’s find a time when I’m feeling more up for visitors."
Common Mistake to Avoid:
Pushing through exhaustion because you feel like you should be doing more. Newsflash: You are doing enough. Healing and caring for a newborn is more than enough.
2. Limit Visitors
Everyone wants to meet the baby, but that doesn’t mean you need an open-door policy. Too many visitors—especially unannounced ones—can be overwhelming and exhausting when you’re in recovery mode.
Setting a boundary around visitors means being clear on when, how long, and under what conditions people can come over. Keep visits short, and don’t feel guilty about saying no when you need quiet time.
Example:
If someone wants to come over and you’re not up for it, you can say:
"We’re keeping visits really short right now so we can rest and adjust. Let’s plan for a quick 30-minute visit next week!"
Common Mistake to Avoid:
Feeling obligated to host. You do not need to entertain, serve drinks, or make conversation. Your only job is healing and bonding with your baby.
3. Decline Unsolicited Advice
Ah, the postpartum period—the time when everyone suddenly becomes an expert on your baby. From how you’re feeding to how much your baby sleeps (or doesn’t), people love to chime in with advice you didn’t ask for.
Here’s the deal: You are the parent. You get to decide what works for you and your baby. If someone offers advice that doesn’t align with your parenting style or instincts, you can politely shut it down.
Example:
If someone starts offering advice you don’t need, try:
"Thanks for sharing! We’re doing what works best for us." or a simple, "No, thank you!"
Common Mistake to Avoid:
Feeling like you have to explain or justify your choices. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for how you choose to parent.
Actionable Takeaways:
✅ Prioritize Rest – Make rest non-negotiable. Say no when needed, and don’t feel guilty for putting your recovery first.
✅ Limit Visitors – Set expectations around visits and keep them short. Protect your space and your energy.
✅ Decline Unsolicited Advice – Trust your instincts. You know what’s best for you and your baby.
Not sure where to start?
Want more support in navigating postpartum with confidence and peace? Download The New Mom Survival Guide: Preparing for Life with a Newborn—your go-to resource for setting up a strong foundation in early motherhood.
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