Maternal Health in the US: Alarming Statistics and the Need for Postpartum Preparation
If you're planning to have a baby and feel nervous about life as a new mom, don't let anyone make you feel like planning for postpartum is unnecessary.
Oftentimes when I ask a pregnant mama if she feels ready for her fourth trimester, she’ll say something along the lines of, “I’m as ready as I can be, I guess.”
But this isn’t true! We can be better prepared for our postpartum experiences. We do not need to struggle.
I've seen so many women struggle with postpartum depression or anxiety, who have felt lost and alone during what should be one of the most awe-inspiring times of their lives.
Postpartum is a critical time that deserves our attention and planning. It's essential to prepare for the support we'll need, whether it comes from loved ones or professionals. Especially if you choose to embrace more natural parenting concepts, you may find it challenging to do so in a society where these practices are not the norm. This can lead to feelings of isolation, self-doubt, and a lack of support, making it even more crucial to have a postpartum plan in place that incorporates these preferences and provides adequate support.
Lanisoh conducted a study and the results were alarming:
88% of women reported feeling unprepared for motherhood
95% reported feeling unsupported after they had their baby
71% felt they were not prepared for breastfeeding
66% were not prepared to deal with mental health issues
65% were surprised by the lack of sleep
64% were surprised by the physical pain or recovery related to childbirth
57% were unprepared for changes in their relationship
39% were unprepared for caring for their baby
89% did not plan at all for postpartum recovery
90% would encourage other women to spend more time preparing for postpartum
77% say their care providers didn't prepare them adequately for their postpartum
42% say they felt unsupported by their care provider
72% of women return to work after having a baby, yet the United States is the only developed nation that doesn't have a guaranteed paid parental leave policy
You CAN be better prepared for your fourth trimester.
To help you be better prepared, I've created a free guide called "Thriving Through the Fourth: A Guide to Planning for Your Postpartum Experience." In it, you'll find practical tips and strategies to help you avoid becoming a statistic and instead thrive during your postpartum journey.
Remember, your postpartum experience matters. You deserve to be valued, prioritized, and cared for. Don't let anyone dismiss it as unimportant or unnecessary. Grab my guide and take the first step towards a more prepared and empowered postpartum experience.
