When expecting a baby, many parents-to-be spend a great deal of time thinking about the birth itself. From preferences around pain relief to who’ll be present in the delivery room, birth plans help families feel prepared and in control during a time that can be unpredictable.
However, once the baby arrives, many find that the biggest challenges begin. That’s why more families are now giving thought to a postpartum plan – a simple, realistic guide to help navigate those early days and weeks after birth.
What is a Postpartum Plan?
A postpartum plan is a flexible guide that outlines how you’ll manage your recovery and look after your baby in the first few weeks. It’s not about sticking to a strict routine – instead, it helps you think ahead about the kind of support you might need, your priorities, and how to take care of your wellbeing as a new parent.
Why Plan for the Postpartum Period?
The days after birth can be joyful, exhausting, emotional, and everything in between. Recovery takes time, and caring for a newborn can feel overwhelming at times, especially when sleep is disrupted and hormones are fluctuating.
Having a simple plan in place won’t make everything perfect, but it can make things feel a little more manageable – helping you know where to turn for support and what to expect in those first few weeks.
What to Include in a Postpartum Plan
Here are some helpful areas to consider when creating your plan:
1. Physical Recovery
Every birth is different. Whether you’ve had a vaginal birth or a caesarean section, your body will need time to heal. Think about:
- Who can help with things like meals, housework, or caring for older children?
- What supplies you might need for comfort and hygiene?
- When and where you’ll be able to rest?
2. Feeding Your Baby
Whether you choose to breastfeed, bottle feed, or do a combination of both, the early days often come with a learning curve. It may help to:
- Learn where to get feeding support (your midwife, health visitor, or local support groups).
- Have supplies on hand – whether that’s bottles, a breast pump, or formula.
- Be gentle with yourself as you and your baby figure it out together.
3. Emotional Wellbeing
Many new parents experience a mix of emotions, including moments of feeling low or anxious. This is normal, but it’s important to check in with yourself and talk to someone if you’re struggling. Your partner, friends, GP, or health visitor can all be valuable sources of support.
4. Practical Support
Discuss in advance who’ll be around to help – even if only occasionally. Can your partner take some time off? Do you have friends or family nearby who can pop in with a meal or help with errands?
5. Sleep and Rest
Newborns wake frequently, and sleep deprivation is a common challenge. Think about how you can make space for rest:
- Could you nap during the day?
- Would taking turns at night with your partner help?
- Could someone else look after the baby for an hour while you rest?
6. Keeping Things Simple
Now might not be the time to worry about deep cleaning or staying on top of everything. If possible, prepare a few meals ahead of time or consider accepting help from others. It’s OK to say “yes” when someone offers support – and just as OK to say “no” when you need space.
Birth Plans vs Postpartum Plans – What’s the Difference?
Birth plans are useful, but labour can be unpredictable. The postpartum period, however, lasts longer and comes with its own set of challenges. A postpartum plan doesn’t guarantee a smooth ride, but it can ease the pressure and help you feel more prepared.
Rather than choosing one over the other, think of both plans as part of the same journey. Preparing for both birth and life afterwards gives you a better chance of feeling supported every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
Having a baby is a huge life change, and no plan can cover everything. But taking the time to think through what you might need – and who can help – can make a real difference.
A postpartum plan doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s simply a way of being kind to yourself, acknowledging the challenges, and giving yourself the best chance to recover, bond with your baby, and settle into your new role.
