Newborn photography is the core of what I do but I’m also a mom and I know what it is like before, during and after childbirth. It’s great to talk about all the sweet baby things like baby photography and newborn essentials and phases but we need to take a moment to talk about some other things as well –
It’s Time We Talk About What Happens After the Baby Arrives
You spend months preparing for the arrival of your sweet newborn. Maybe you’ve been reading birthing books, taking birthing classes, packing the hospital bag, etc. But here’s the hard truth most people won’t tell you: the real work begins after delivery. Postpartum recovery is raw, emotional, messy, and beautiful all at the same time. And while most everything around you focuses on the baby, your body, mind, and inner being are undergoing a transformation maybe no one truly prepared you for.
Let’s dive into it:
1. There’s a Chance You Might Still Look Pregnant (and that’s ok)
You’ve FINALLY given birth. But what is this???? The baby bump… remains??
Yes – Your baby bump might not disappear the moment your baby arrives. Your uterus takes around 6–8 weeks to go back to its normal size. Bloating is another factor and can linger even longer (especially if you’ve had a C-section – oof your legs). Try and be gentle with yourself. Your body is still in a huge transition. The best thing to do is wear comfy clothes and don’t even attempt to wear pre-pregnancy jeans (seriously just don’t)
2. The First Bathroom Trip Is… a Journey
Going to the bathroom post-delivery can be scary. Whether you’ve had a vaginal delivery (maybe with some stitches), a C-section, or both, everything feels beyond beat up, sore, painful, all the words in the dictionary that describe the most uncomfortable feelings. Stool softeners and peri bottles will be a huge help. Don’t forget to take medications like Ibuprofen or Tylenol if you can. And yes, it gets better it just takes a little bit of time and patience.
3. Breastfeeding Isn’t Always Easy (or Natural)
Despite the romanticized images, breastfeeding can be really painful at first. It can take days for your milk to come in ( and in some cases it might not at all). Latching issues, cracked nipples, engorgement – none of this is uncommon. Don’t be afraid to reach out to a lactation consultant and ask questions. You’re not alone.
4. You May Cry a Lot and You May Not Always Know Why
Your hormones are literally completely out of whack. Sleep deprivation kicks in. You’re feeling EVERYTHING. From insane happiness to overwhelming sadness, postpartum emotions swing hard and come for everyone. It’s normal to cry, to have many moments of overwhelming sadness and maybe have no clue why. If you’re feeling off, please be sure to reach out to your doctor, a friend, a family member – do not suffer alone. Postpartum depression and anxiety are very real and treatable.
5. The Loneliness Can Surprise You
Those first few days and weeks can be a bit hectic. Even surrounded by visitors and all the new baby snuggles, you might feel alone and isolated. Your identity has shifted, your body feels like it’s not yours, and you may not be sure where “you” went. These are things that you should definitely talk about. Community- online or offline – matters more than ever.
6. Your Relationships Will Change
Adding a baby in your life redefines your roles as a partner and even as a friend and all other things as well. Resentment, exhaustion, and tons of miscommunication can make things very frustrating. Trying to have grace, as much patience as possible, and regular check-ins with all involved can be super helpful.
7. Healing Takes Time
One day you’ll feel amazing, the next you’ll cry because your pants don’t fit or you watched a sappy commercial and that’s okay. Recovery does not go in a straight line. Be sure to go at your own pace. You are not behind by any means. You are evolving and becoming a bit of a different version of yourself.
A Few Things That Help:
- Mesh underwear & ice packs (yes, seriously)
- Peri bottles for vaginal birth healing (make sure you keep an extra with you when you’re out and about)
- Belly binders (if advised by your doctor) for C-section or core support
- Nutrition & hydration: Nourish your body like it’s still growing a newborn – DRINK WATER!!!
- Gentle movement – don’t overdue but be sure to get some movement in
- Support systems: partner, therapist, doula, or mom groups
Remember…
You are not just surviving- you are healing and evolving after bringing a baby into this world.
If no one has said it yet… You’re doing an incredible job – you got this!!! You are not alone.
www.threejsphotography.com
