Why Emotional Preparation for Postpartum Matters
You’ve probably heard all about the registry must-haves, the birth plan options, and the ten thousand different ways to swaddle a baby. But what about preparing emotionally for postpartum?
Spoiler alert: Emotional prep is just as important (if not more) than packing your hospital bag. And no, it’s not about pretending everything’s going to be sunshine and sleepy snuggles. It’s about getting real with yourself before baby arrives—so when those big feelings hit (and they will), you’re not blindsided.
Let’s walk through five powerful ways to prepare emotionally before your baby is born—because taking care of you is part of taking care of baby.
In this episode, we will cover:
Why emotional readiness is just as important as physical preparation before baby arrives.
The key steps you can take now to mentally and emotionally prepare for the changes ahead.
How emotional preparation can help you navigate the highs and lows of new motherhood with confidence.
… and a whole lot more!
1. Acknowledge Your Emotions Ahead of Time
Here’s the truth no one puts on a baby shower card: feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just off in postpartum is totally normal. You are not broken or doing it wrong. You’re human. And your hormones are throwing an absolute rager.
One of the most powerful things you can do is start checking in with yourself now. How are you feeling today? What’s stressing you out? What usually helps you feel more grounded? When you reflect on your emotions ahead of time, you can start to recognize patterns and triggers—so when they pop up later, they won’t feel quite so scary.
Pro tip: Start journaling once a week. Nothing fancy, just brain-dump your thoughts. You’ll be amazed what comes up when you give yourself space to process.
2. Set Realistic Expectations for Yourself
Postpartum is not the time to be Superwoman. Or Supermom. Or Super-Anything, really.
One of the best gifts you can give yourself is the freedom to not have it all together. Sit down and ask yourself: What do I actually expect of myself in those first weeks? Am I giving myself space to heal, rest, and just be with my baby?
Then—here’s the kicker—talk about it with your partner. What kind of support will you need? Who’s in charge of meals, laundry, or just keeping you fed and hydrated like a houseplant with anxiety? What’s not realistic to expect from yourself right away?
Write it down. Revisit it later. Give yourself permission to edit the list as you go.
3. Build Your Support System Early
Look, motherhood can feel lonely even when you’re never alone. So before you’re knee-deep in diapers and wondering what day it is, build your emotional village.
This might mean lining up a therapist, joining a new parent support group, or even following accounts that normalize the messy, beautiful chaos of postpartum life. If you’re someone who thrives with structure, make a list of go-to people or resources you can lean on when you’re running low on energy, sleep, or serotonin.
Support doesn’t always show up at your door with a casserole—sometimes, you have to send the invite first.
4. Prepare for Postpartum Emotional Shifts
Here’s your friendly reminder that hormones are wild. Like, “first 10 minutes of Inside Out” wild. You might cry over a sandwich. You might feel euphoric, anxious, weepy, numb, or all of the above—in one day.
Learning about postpartum mental health before you’re in the thick of it can help you recognize when your emotional shifts are within the normal range and when it’s time to get extra support. (And yes, getting support is a strength, not a weakness.)
Consider taking a postpartum prep class that includes mental health, not just baby care. Because the more you know, the more power you have to take care of yourself well.
5. Reclaim Your Identity
Motherhood changes you—but it doesn’t erase you.
One of the most overlooked parts of postpartum prep is figuring out how to stay you while stepping into this new role. So take time now to ask: What makes me feel like myself? What hobbies, rituals, or relationships help me feel grounded?
Maybe it’s a solo Target run with a coffee in hand, or book club with your friends, or blasting early 2000s jams on a walk. Whatever fills your cup, name it. Guard it. And remind yourself: You’re still YOU. You’re just evolving. Like a really cool Pokémon.
You deserve to feel emotionally supported—before baby arrives.
Preparing for postpartum isn’t just about making sure the baby has the right onesies. It’s about making sure you have the emotional tools, support, and self-awareness to navigate this season with grace (and probably a little chaos, too).
So take the time to do the emotional prep now. Future you will be so glad you did.
Resources Mentioned in the Podcast
Want a little help getting started?
Download The New Mom Reset: Simple Steps to Feel Like Yourself Again —a free guide to help you reconnect with you in the thick of new motherhood.
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