In the postpartum period, mothers experience many physical and emotional changes, and it is necessary to prioritize recovery and self-care. In Latin American cultures, the first 40 days after giving birth is known as la cuarentena. During this time, new moms can focus on rest, recovery, and nourishing their babies while receiving support from other women in their community.
Some essential aspects of la cuarentena are support, restrictions with bathing, eating soup, abstaining from sex, and postpartum girdle (faja in Spanish). I can recall my postpartum experience, being reprimanded by the women in my family for bending down to pick something up from the floor, eating certain foods or even leaving my house.
We all know that when mothers take care of themselves, it benefits the entire family. The following are tips so mothers can incorporate rest and recovery into their postpartum experience:
- Ask for help! Historically, there is this idea that women should do it all (superwoman syndrome) with little to no time for herself. Having a support system is crucial for both mental and physical well-being. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it demonstrates strength and resilience.
- Check in with your healthcare providers. Taking care of your medical and mental health needs is crucial for recovery and is an important aspect of self-care. Regular check-ups can reduce complications and detect any issues early.
- Take naps. The postpartum period is demanding and resting can make a world of a difference in a mother’s mood. Resting can also restore their energy and contributes to a more pleasant postpartum experience. I often hear mothers mention the numerous chores they need to tackle once their baby is asleep. However, it is crucial to prioritize rest. A mother taking care of herself during the postpartum period is essential for her health and her baby’s well-being.
Hillary Aponte-Chimelis, LPC, PMH-C, R-PLC
Emotional Compass
4641 Pottsville Pike, suite 101B
Reading, PA 19605
Phone: 484-509-1038
