As I enter my second pregnancy, I’ve thought so much about postpartum care for mothers. I have photographed newborns for over ten years. This also means I am around a lot of postpartum mothers. I listened to this book – The First Forty Days – on audible a few years ago as I was trying to educate myself on postpartum care. At the time I had no idea I would use the information myself and how helpful it would be.

Two helpful things

Two things I struggled with most being a postpartum mother was what to eat and how to regulate visitors. I had a very long labor that ended in a c-section so my body had a lot of healing to do.

Our church offers meals to families after a new baby and I specifically asked for soups. (largely due to reading this book) Wholesome bone broth is so healing for new mothers and easy on the stomach after a large surgery. A friend also brought protein balls that were amazing to have on hand. Breastfeeding mamas need to eat and drink a lot to keep up with their body’s demands. Being able to grab one or two protein bars was so helpful. (recipe at the bottom)

Welcoming Visitors

The second area I had to regulate was welcoming visitors that wanted to come and see our baby. We waited 13 years t have a baby due to infertility so I wanted the world to come see us! I found out very quickly one of the most effective postpartum care for mothers. Short and helpful visits.

A friend stoped by -she let me know what time to expect her and that she wouldn’t stay long. Bringing bagels and cream cheese, she offered to hold my baby and I went to the kitchen and fixed a quick snack. It was so helpful!

Another friend text me the morning after we got home from the hospital asking me what she could order from the local coffee shop. She brought a sandwich and coffee for the first morning we were home. Again, so helpful! Offering to hold my baby while I ate a nourishing breakfast and then left soon after. Short and sweet visits are the best when you are in the postpartum phase.

Your spouse and family can help you regulate visits as well to take the stress off of you.

You can read more of our son’s journey here: Robert’s birth.

Protein Bars

2 cups of oats, 1 cup peanut butter, 2 tablespoons protein powder, 1/2 cup honey, teaspoon salt

• mix together in a mixer
• press into cookie sheet
• drizzle with chocolate (or just add mini chocolate chips to batter)
• refrigerate and then cut into bars
• will keep in the fridge for 3 weeks

This recipe can be adjusted in many ways. You can add coconut flakes and cranberries. You can also adjust the peanut butter if you want a softer bar. You can cup them into bars or shape them into cookie balls.