Welcoming a baby is one of life’s most beautiful experiences, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially in those early postpartum days. Self-care after birth is crucial for your physical recovery, mental well-being, and ability to nurture your baby. 

If you’re wondering, “How do I take care of myself after giving birth?”, you’re not alone. In this blog, we’ll provide practical tips to help you prioritize yourself during this transformative time. Keep reading to learn more.

Why Self-Care After Birth Matters  

Your body just accomplished an incredible feat—whether you delivered vaginally or via C-section, it needs time to heal. Hormones are shifting, sleep is scarce, and emotions can be all over the place. 

Focusing on self-care helps you recover faster, manage your stress, and show up as the best version of yourself for your baby. By taking care of yourself, you’re also taking care of your little one.  

So, how do you practice self-care after birth? Here are some simple ways that you can look after yourself as you care for your newborn.

1. Rest Whenever You Can

“When can I sleep after giving birth?”

You’ve probably heard the advice, “Sleep when the baby sleeps”. It may seem hard as you adjust to a new schedule, but it’s important to find opportunities to rest whenever you can.

Postpartum recovery demands rest because your body is healing from labor and adjusting to new demands like breastfeeding. If you can’t nap, lie down, put your feet up, and let your body relax.  

How do you rest more after having a baby? Ask your partner, family, or friends to watch the baby for short stretches. If you’re a single mother, try resting during those rare quiet moments—maybe while the baby naps in a safe spot nearby. Rest isn’t just about sleep; it’s about giving your body a break.  

2. Nourish Your Body with Healthy Food 

“What should I eat after birth?” 

Eating well is a huge part of self-care after birth. Your body needs nutrients to heal and produce milk if you’re breastfeeding. Focus on easy, healthy meals—think protein like chicken or beans, whole grains like oatmeal, and fruits and veggies for vitamins. It’s also important to stay hydrated. Keep a water bottle nearby at all times, especially if you’re breastfeeding. 

Here are a few examples of what you should be eating after giving birth[1]:

• Carbohydrates, such as whole wheat bread and pasta, fresh fruit and veggies, and yogurt. This will help you sustain energy and promote physical healing.
• Protein, such as eggs, chicken, lean beef, and nuts. This will help repair your muscles and tissues.
• Iron, such as oatmeal, beans, and lean red meat. This will help you boost your immune system and fight fatigue. 
• Healthy fats, such as avocados and olive oil. This will help your body absorb the nutrients it needs.

If you don’t have time to cook, stock up on pre-made meals like soups and smoothies and keep healthy snacks handy. You could even ask friends and family to drop off meals instead of gifts after the baby arrives.

3. Take Care of Your Physical Recovery  

“How do I heal my body after birth?”

Your body’s been through a lot, so physical self-care is non-negotiable. 

If you had a vaginal delivery, you might be dealing with soreness or stitches. Use a peri bottle for gentle cleansing, sitz baths for pain relief, and ice packs for swelling. 

For C-section recovery, avoid heavy lifting and keep the scar clean at all times. Move gently—short walks can boost circulation without overdoing it. Attend all of your postpartum checkups!  

4. Tend to Your Mental Health  

“How do I handle my emotions after birth?”

Postpartum emotions can feel like a rollercoaster. One minute you’re overjoyed, the next you’re crying or anxious. That’s normal, but self-care includes your mind too.  

Talk to someone you trust—your partner, a parent, a friend, or even a therapist. If you notice signs of postpartum depression, such as intense irritability or trouble bonding with your baby[2], reach out to your doctor. You’re not alone in this.  

 

5. Accept Help

“How do I accept help after giving birth?”

New moms often feel pressure to do it all, but self-care after birth means leaning on your village. Whether it’s someone folding laundry, watching the baby while you shower, or running an errand for you, always say yes to support.  

The easiest way to accept help is to be specific with your requests. For example, you could ask someone, “could you return this Amazon package for me?” or “Can you watch the baby for an hour so I can nap?”. People want to help, sometimes they just need direction.  

6. Carve Out “Me Time” 

“How do I find time for myself after birth?”

Finding time for yourself might sound impossible, but even five minutes counts. Sometimes, self-care after birth means enjoying the little things. Take a warm shower, read a page of a book, or sip some tea in peace.  

How do you squeeze this in? Tag-team with your partner or use baby’s naptime. It’s not selfish—it’s essential for your well-being. 

7. Be Kind to Yourself  

“How do I feel good about myself postpartum?”

Give yourself grace. Your body looks different, your routine’s flipped upside down, and you’re learning as you go. Self-care after birth isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Celebrate small wins, like getting dressed or soothing a crying baby. You’re doing great, even when it doesn’t feel like it.  

Here are a few tips to help you feel better about yourself after birth: 

• Wear clothes that make you feel good. Soft leggings or robes can help you feel more cozy and comfortable and you adjust to your new life.
• Set boundaries. It’s okay to say no if you’re not up for company. You are the baby’s mother and you make the rules.  
• Connect with other moms. Online groups or local meetups can remind you you’re not alone. It’s also a great way to get helpful tips from seasoned moms on how to care for your baby and yourself.

Postpartum Care Services in Denver, Colorado 

Self-care after birth is all about resting, eating well, healing physically, nurturing your mental health, accepting help, finding “me time,” and being gentle with yourself. Start small—pick one thing from this list today—and build from there. You’ve got this.

All that being said, you don’t have to do this alone. Marisol Health provides postpartum care services, so you can get the support you deserve as you raise your baby! 

Give us a call at (303) 731-6130 or request an appointment online to get started. 

Sources

1. American Pregnancy Association. (n.d.). A Faster Postpartum Recovery. https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/first-year-of-life/postpartum-recovery-2/ 
2. Mayo Clinic. (2022, November 24). Postpartum Depression. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/postpartum-depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20376617