After spending a few days at the maternity ward, we return to our cozy home to find our rhythm with this new life that begins with one more member in the family. During those first days, we live in our own little bubble, surrounded by the familiar environment we know, but with a new routine to establish.
Marie Choquel, a postnatal support specialist and child sleep expert, shares her advice for a gentle transition back home.
Feeling Comfortable
” After childbirth, your body will recover from this “marathon” at its own pace, and you’ll need to be as comfortable as possible while caring for your baby. Getting dressed, let’s be honest, won’t be your top priority and time will be tight. Feeling good in your clothes will be essential. We recommend soft, loose-fitting fabrics that make breastfeeding easier if you wish. Leggings, t-shirts, and shirts adapted to your needs, Jolibump offers a collection specially designed for maternity. All the clothes are made to be worn before, during, and long after pregnancy.
Sleep and Time for Yourself
Regarding your baby’s sleep and yours the rhythm will change day by day. During the first weeks, your baby won’t distinguish between day and night, will often wake more at night than during the day, and will need you to soothe them.
Your baby is discovering this new world and will need time to adjust. The first three months are an extension of your pregnancy; we call it the fourth trimester because this time together is essential for both you and your baby. For sleep, your baby will need to recreate the conditions they had in your womb to feel comfortable and fall asleep peacefully: rocking, white noise, being held snugly, and sucking will help. Your baby will doze off in your arms, during bottle feeding, at the breast, or while being carried—and that’s perfectly okay!
People often say you should nap when your baby naps. If we had unlimited time, I think we’d all do that, but we can’t predict how long baby will sleep or if we’ll be able to put them down. It’s important to delegate or postpone non-urgent tasks (cleaning, dishes, tidying up…) and instead find moments to do what makes you feel good : a bit of relaxation, eating, washing up (which isn’t so easy the first weeks!), taking a nap, calling a loved one… etc.
Take care of yourself and enjoy ! Your priority is your well-being and that of your baby.
A Mother’s Emotions
When you return home, your whole world is turned upside down, your body, your emotions change and fluctuate. You often have many questions and doubts about your abilities. Am I doing this right? Will I manage ? How will I cope when I’m alone ? I’m exhausted, how will I hold on ? It’s easy to feel lonely and isolated, especially when your partner goes back to work. You may be overwhelmed by the baby blues or postpartum depression.
It’s important to know that nowadays a midwife can visit you during the first few days to support you and your baby. Likewise, a doctor or pediatrician will be there to monitor your baby’s health. However, I know this is far from enough, and today professionals are focusing on answering your questions, addressing your uncertainties, and providing the advice and support you need during your maternity leave and postpartum period. We are here to support you so that you can experience these early stages of parenthood with peace of mind. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us.”
Marie Choquel is the founder of Mama & You, a postnatal support specialist and child sleep expert for ages 0 to 5. Find more information on her website and her Instagram account @mama_and.you.
Find your perfect maternity outfit. Discover our full range of sustainable, eco-friendly maternity clothing, designed to be worn before, during, and after pregnancy.