Creating a Postpartum Plan Before Baby Arrives: Why It Matters More Than You Think

When we think of birth prep, most of us picture the hospital bag, the birth playlist, or maybe the contractions timer. But what about the after? The truth is, the postpartum period — also known as the fourth trimester — deserves just as much attention as labor. A postpartum plan helps you feel more supported, less overwhelmed, and more empowered in those first weeks with your baby.

What Is a Postpartum Plan?

A postpartum plan is a written guide that outlines your needs, preferences, and support systems after birth. It’s like a birth plan — but for the recovery and bonding period that follows.

It covers:

• Who’s helping and how

• Feeding goals and challenges

• Household responsibilities

• Emotional and mental health support

• Rest, meals, and boundaries with visitors

Why It Matters

• Reduces stress: You don’t have to figure everything out on the fly.

• Improves communication: Partners and support people know how to help.

• Prioritizes your healing: You can’t pour from an empty cup.

• Builds a village: You clarify who’s available and what they can do.

What to Include in Your Postpartum Plan

1. Physical Recovery Support
Plan for rest, padsicles, cesarean healing, and pain management. Who will care for the baby while you shower, nap, or eat?

2. Infant Feeding
Do you want to breastfeed, bottle feed, or combo feed? Who can support you if you need help?

3. Emotional & Mental Health
Identify trusted people to talk to. Include resources like a postpartum therapist, support groups, or your doula.

4. Household Responsibilities
Decide in advance who will cook, clean, do laundry, or care for other kids/pets.

5. Visitors & Boundaries
Who is welcome, when, and for how long? Do you want guests to bring meals or limit contact?

6. Professional Support
List your postpartum doula, lactation consultant, OB/midwife, pediatrician, and others you may call on.

Your postpartum plan doesn’t need to be perfect — just intentional. It’s okay to change it as you go. What matters most is knowing you don’t have to do this alone. At Nuevas Raíces Doula, we’re here to help you build the village you need.