In cultures around the world, the postpartum period is a time when new mothers are given exceptional care, support, and nourishment. These practices acknowledge the importance of postpartum care and the immense physical and emotional changes that occur after childbirth, emphasizing the mother’s recovery and well-being. Unfortunately, in the traditional Western context, the focus tends to shift rapidly to questions like “Is your baby sleeping through the night?” and “Can you fit back into your jeans yet?” This cultural gap often leaves new mothers feeling isolated and overwhelmed, highlighting the need for quality postpartum help that, in many cases, must be hired at a significant cost.
The Cultural Contrast: Global Postpartum Practices
In many cultures, postpartum care is a communal effort. For example:
- China: The tradition of “sitting the month” (zuo yuezi) involves a month-long period where new mothers rest and recover while family members handle household chores and cooking, providing nutrient-rich foods that aid in recovery.
- India: The postpartum period includes massages, special diets, and support from extended family to help the mother regain her strength.
- Latin America: The concept of “la cuarentena” is a 40-day period where the new mother is relieved of household duties and given specific foods to promote healing and lactation.
These practices are rooted in the understanding that a well-supported mother can better care for her newborn and recover more effectively. However, in the Western world, new mothers often find themselves navigating this challenging period with minimal support, focusing on external expectations rather than their own needs.
The Reality in the Western World
In the West, the postpartum period is frequently marked by a lack of communal support. The pressure to return to pre-pregnancy appearance and routines can be overwhelming. As a result, many mothers turn to professional help to fill the gap left by the absence of traditional community care. However, hiring quality postpartum support can be expensive, often costing $30 or more per hour. Identifying the type of help needed is crucial for new mothers to get the most benefit from these services.
Types of Postpartum Support
- Newborn Care Specialist (NCS) or Hybrid Postpartum Doula/NCS:
- Best for mothers who need help with sleep.
- NCS professionals specialize in newborn care, allowing mothers to rest and recover.
- Lactation Counselor or International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC):
- Ideal for mothers who need lactation support.
- These professionals provide guidance and assistance with breastfeeding, ensuring both mother and baby establish a good feeding routine.
- Postpartum Doula:
- Postpartum doulas offer emotional support and practical assistance, helping new mothers navigate the early days of parenthood.
The Role of Family and Friends
While family and friends can be a valuable source of support, it’s essential for them to understand and respect the new mother’s needs. Too often, well-meaning loved ones may prioritize their desire to bond with the baby over the mother’s need for rest and recovery. This dynamic can lead to frustration and stress for new parents who may feel pressured to accommodate others’ expectations. Effective support from family and friends should be non-judgmental and focused on the mother’s well-being.
Moving Forward: Embracing a New Approach
To better support new mothers, the Western world can learn from global postpartum practices by fostering a culture that prioritizes maternal health and recovery. This shift involves:
- Awareness and Education: Educating families and communities about the importance of postpartum care and how they can support new mothers.
- Accessible Postpartum Services: Advocating for affordable and accessible postpartum support services to ensure all mothers receive the care they need.
- Cultural Change: Promoting a cultural shift that values and respects the postpartum period as a crucial time for maternal recovery and bonding with the newborn.
By embracing these changes, we can create an environment where new mothers feel supported, valued, and empowered during one of the most transformative times of their lives.
