The weeks after birth are a time of recovery as well as of caring for a new baby. Recovery looks different for everyone, and this checklist is general: use it to start conversations with your own midwife, doctor or hospital, not to replace them.
Questions to ask your care team before the birth
- What will the hospital or birth center provide for me and for the baby, and what should I bring?
- What should I expect in the first days and weeks, and who do I call with questions at night?
- When is my first follow-up appointment?
- Which comfort or pain-relief measures do you recommend for my situation, and are there medicines I should or should not use?
- If I plan to breastfeed or use formula, where can I get help in the first week?
Comforts many people consider
Ask your care team which of these make sense for you. You may not need all of them.
- Soft, loose, comfortable clothing and underwear that you do not mind replacing.
- Whatever pads and perineal or incision care supplies your provider recommends.
- A large water bottle and easy snacks within reach of where you will feed the baby.
- Pillows or a nursing pillow if they help you sit comfortably.
- A small basket or cart you can move between rooms with the things you use most.
Our Postpartum Prioritizer helps you rank what feels heaviest and see a general list of comforts to consider.
Food, fluids and rest
MedlinePlus notes that rest is an important part of recovery. Meals that are already made help: freeze a few portions before the birth, or ask friends and family to bring food. Our guide to meal prep for busy parents has ideas.
Line up support
- Decide who can help with meals, laundry, older children and errands in the first weeks.
- Write down a few phone numbers: your clinician’s out-of-hours line, your baby’s pediatrician and a friend you can call.
- Plan for visitors. It is fine to ask them to help, or to wait.
Your mood matters too
Feeling tearful or overwhelmed in the first days is common. If low mood, anxiety or hopeless feelings are severe, or last longer than about two weeks, talk to a health professional. The NIMH notes that perinatal depression can be treated. In the United States, the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is free, confidential and open 24/7: call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262).
Sources and further reading
This article is general information, not medical advice. It does not replace guidance from your doctor, midwife, pediatrician or other qualified professional. Read our health information disclaimer.
