A new mom holds her newborn baby. Postpartum doula support can help ease the transition into motherhood.

You may have heard of creating a birth plan, but what about a postpartum plan? Part of looking ahead to the days, weeks, and months after welcoming your baby can be identifying professionals who can support you during that period. While every family’s needs are unique, here are some general recommendations for resources to consider. In St. Louis, we are fortunate to have many outstanding providers who specialize in working with postpartum moms and newborns. I love giving personalized recommendations, so please reach out if you’d like any referrals!

Professionals to Consider for Your Postpartum Support Team

Postpartum Doula

Of course, my first recommendation is for a postpartum doula! A postpartum doula is like a trusted friend who is there to provide practical, informational, and emotional support during the postpartum period. We offer guidance on newborn care, help with household tasks, provide breastfeeding support, and lend a listening ear when you need to talk about your feelings and concerns. Having a postpartum doula by your side can ease the transition into motherhood and help you feel confident in your new role.

Pediatrician

A supportive, attentive pediatrician can make a world of difference. You’ll be making frequent visits to the pediatrician in the first few months, and this creates an opportunity to develop a relationship with your baby’s doctor. It’s key to find a pediatrician who can take the time to listen to your questions and concerns, and is also looking out for you as a parent as well as your baby. Pediatricians see new parents more frequently than your OBGYN and should be conducting important screenings for postpartum depression, and be ready to make referrals as needed.

Mental Health Therapist

The postpartum period can bring about a range of emotions, from joy and fulfillment to anxiety and sadness. Having a mental health therapist on your support team can be a crucial lifeline. They can help you navigate the emotional challenges of parenthood, provide coping strategies, and offer a safe space to talk about your feelings. Also, couple dynamics inevitably change with the addition of a new baby, so seeing a couples therapist prior to and after birth can strengthen your relationship and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist

Pregnancy and childbirth can take a toll on your pelvic floor muscles. A pelvic floor physical therapist specializes in assessing and treating issues related to the pelvic floor, such as incontinence or pelvic pain. They can design a personalized plan to help you regain strength and function, ensuring that you recover fully and comfortably after giving birth. Some physical therapists can even come to your house, which is such a huge help in those early weeks when leaving the house with a newborn feels so daunting.

Parent educator

In Missouri, we have an amazing program called Parents as Teachers. This resource is operated within individual school districts, and offers free parenting coaches from pregnancy through age 3 of your child’s life. Your parent educator will visit your home and offer information and ideas for your child’s stage of life. Some Parents as Teachers programs also offer group workshops, playgroups, and special events. Learn more about Parents as Teachers and sign up today to get started with this fantastic organization.

Lactation Consultant

Breastfeeding can be one of the most beautiful and challenging aspects of early motherhood. A lactation consultant is an essential member of your support team who can offer expert guidance and troubleshooting when it comes to breastfeeding. Lactation consultants are available in the hospital, and I recommend requesting to see one on each day of your hospital stay, even if things are off to a good start. Once you’re home, lactation consultants can address any breastfeeding difficulties, conduct a weighted feed to measure milk transfer, and ensure that both you and your baby are thriving in your breastfeeding journey.

Chiropractor

Chiropractic care during the postpartum period can be incredibly beneficial. Pregnancy can lead to changes in your posture and spine alignment, which can result in discomfort and pain. A chiropractor can help realign your body, alleviate pain, and improve overall wellness, allowing you to enjoy the early days of motherhood without physical limitations. Some chiropractors are also trained to adjust newborns and infants, which can positively impact breastfeeding, sleep, and much more.

Massage Therapist

The stresses of pregnancy, childbirth, and caring for a newborn can take a toll on your body and mind. A massage therapist can provide much-needed relaxation and relief from tension. Regular massages can improve your mood, reduce stress, and promote better sleep, all of which are essential for your postpartum well-being. Massage therapists trained in postpartum massage often welcome you to bring your baby to your appointments if that makes it easier to find time to add this service to your schedule.

Building the perfect postpartum support team is a thoughtful and proactive step towards ensuring a smoother transition into parenthood. Each member of your team plays a unique and vital role in your well-being, addressing various physical, emotional, and logistical aspects of the postpartum period. With the right support, you can embrace the joys of the newborn period while confidently navigating the challenges that may arise.

Of course, your support team should be tailored to your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Don't hesitate to reach out to professionals in these fields early in your pregnancy to start building your team. By doing so, you'll be better prepared to embrace the transformative journey of motherhood with confidence, resilience, and a strong support system by your side.