Real parents tell us the truth about their postpartum experiences.

Home truths, ugly truths, honest truths and naked truths. The truth is that after 50 years of supporting parents all around the world, we’ve learned everyone’s everyday is different. And that’s okay.

Danielle

“The truth is that the postpartum period is not spoken about enough. The fourth trimester as it’s now known is a lot! After the birth of my first baby, I can remember thinking ‘wow, what is this?’, it really hit me like a tonne of bricks.

I think that preparing while you’re pregnant is key and really pays off once baby arrives. I always advise friends who are expecting to really prepare for that time in advance. You can prep meals and keep them in the freezer, arrange what support you’re going to have around you, and mentally prepare to feel overwhelmed and tired.

It’s a real season of change, and post-labour you need to be kind to yourself and know that it’s going to take time for you to find your new groove and daily rhythm.

For some, postpartum is just really tough, I’ve had friends who have experience depression. Some have sought help, and others haven’t, and I can see the difference. So, my advice is to always seek help if you feel low and overwhelmed.

On the flip side, it’s also a joyous time filled with learning, bonding and the realisation that you’ve got a beautiful little person in your life now who wasn’t here before!

I think the term ‘baby bubble’ is pretty accurate. You’re in awe of what’s just happened and what’s ahead. If you don’t want to go out and see people and just want to stay in with your baby, that’s okay. Take time to find your feet and enjoy those early days because you won’t ever get them back.

If you’re not ready for visitors, just let people know and they will understand. There’ll be plenty of time for coffee catch ups and playdates in the near future!”