Preparing for the Postpartum Journey: What Every Family Should Know

When it comes to birth, most parents spend months preparing—reading books, attending classes, and getting mentally ready for the big day. But what about after the baby arrives? The postpartum stage is just as important, yet it often slips under the radar. Many families assume everything will naturally fall into place, only to discover that recovery and adjusting to life with a newborn requires a thoughtful plan and plenty of support.

That’s why during prenatal visits, we encourage families to create a postpartum plan. Think of it as your roadmap for those early weeks at home—a guide to help you and your loved ones navigate boundaries, expectations, and support needs. A good plan can include:

• Who will visit in the hospital or birthing space?

• When (and how long) will visitors be welcome once you’re home?

• What roles will family and friends play in supporting your recovery?

• How will you set boundaries so your new family can bond in peace?

Pro tip: Don’t assume people know how to help—ask! Many loved ones want to support you but just aren’t sure how.

Once baby arrives, the spotlight shifts to recovery. Moms need time, rest, and nurturing care—but let’s not forget dads and partners. Their active participation in the first two weeks can make a huge difference, helping with bonding, setting routines, and giving mom the space she needs to heal. For dads who feel unsure, a Daddy Boot Camp can be a game-changer—teaching simple caregiving skills and boosting confidence.

Across cultures, postpartum looks very different. Some communities emphasize rest, food, and family care before moms even think about returning to “normal.” Indigenous and communal practices remind us that caring for new families isn’t a solo act—it’s a community effort. In the U.S., where independence is often valued over collective care, there’s so much we can learn by reflecting on these traditions and building more supportive postpartum experiences.

Here are a few practical questions to discuss when shaping your own plan:

1. Who’s in charge of cleaning the home?

2. Who’s cooking meals? (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

3. Who will handle grocery shopping?

4. Who can run errands if needed?

5. If mom isn’t feeling well, who helps with feedings?

6. Who is welcome in the home, and for how long?

7. Aside from family, who will play an important role in recovery?

At the end of the day, remember this: postpartum is a season for healing, bonding, and adjusting as a family. Create space to rest, connect, and truly soak in these early days. With the right support and boundaries in place, you can move through this transition with more peace, balance, and joy.

You say prepare for Postpartum

Most individuals dedicate ample time to preparing for childbirth, recognizing the mental readiness required. Yet, postpartum, a crucial but often overlooked stage, is frequently underprepared for. Assumptions of ample support and ideal outcomes prevail, without thorough communication. Addressing this, during prenatal visits, families are prompted to create a postpartum plan, a vital discussion with partners and family. It encompasses essential aspects like defining boundaries, involvement of family and friends during birth and postpartum, birthing room guests, visitation timing, and defining support roles. This structured postpartum package aids families in navigating this transitional phase comfortably.

Upon returning home with the newborn, the focus shifts to recovery for both parents. While mothers’ needs are more apparent, fathers play a significant role in postpartum care. Encouraging fathers to partake actively for at least two weeks post-birth ensures family bonding, routine establishment, and support for the mother’s recovery.

For fathers seeking guidance, a Daddy boot camp serves as a valuable resource covering basic caregiving skills. Embracing diverse cultural practices, particularly those emphasizing communal support, can enrich the postpartum experience. Acknowledging the benefits of collective care in Indigenous communities, where postpartum care is prioritized over a swift return to normalcy, sheds light on alternative approaches.

In the United States, cultural diversity is abundant, offering opportunities for mutual learning and growth. However, a tendency to prioritize individual autonomy over communal support can hinder postpartum experiences. Reflecting on varied cultural postpartum practices can provide valuable insights for enhancing the overall postpartum journey.

 In the United States, cultural diversity is abundant, offering opportunities for mutual learning and growth. However, a tendency to prioritize individual autonomy over communal support can hinder postpartum experiences. Reflecting on varied cultural postpartum practices can provide valuable insights for enhancing the overall postpartum journey. another. Here are a few things to consider.

1. Who is cleaning the residence?
2. Who is cooking breakfast, Lunch and dinner?
3. Who will grocery shop?
4. Who will run errands?
5. If mom isn't feeling well who will help her with feedings?
6.Who is allowed in the home, when and how long?
7. Aside from the family who will be important to recovery?

Here are a few points to keep in mind. While we all have family and friends, it's essential not to assume they will automatically help. Instead, it's okay to inquire about what they are willing to assist with during the postpartum phase. After discussing the essentials, think about who you are comfortable having around your family and when. 

Remember, as a new family, it's crucial to allow time for bonding.

Homebirth facts

Many beautiful Mommies ask me my opinion on whether they should have a homebirth or not. I am all for a beautiful birth. I do believe you should consider everything to make sure the decision your making is what is best and safe for you and baby. Here are my thoughts on Homebirth with some facts that can be helpful.

Bringing a new life into the world is an awe-inspiring experience. For many mothers, the idea of giving birth at home is an attractive option. Homebirth is a safe and natural alternative to a hospital birth. It provides expectant mothers with a comfortable, familiar environment to give birth in. Let's take a look at some facts about homebirth.

Firstly, it is important to note that homebirth is not for everyone. Women with high-risk pregnancies should give birth in a hospital, where they can receive the appropriate level of care. However, studies have shown that for low-risk pregnancies, homebirth can be just as safe as a hospital birth. In fact, homebirth may even be safer for some women, as there is less risk of infection and unnecessary medical interventions.

Another great benefit of homebirth is the level of control it gives the mother. In a hospital setting, the mother may feel like a passive observer in her own birth experience. At home, the mother can decide who will be present, what kind of atmosphere she wants, and what kind of pain relief she prefers. This level of control can help the mother feel more relaxed and confident during the birth process.

Finally, homebirth can be a much more cost-effective option than a hospital birth. Hospital births can be expensive, and even with insurance, the costs can quickly add up. Homebirth, on the other hand, is often much more affordable. Additionally, many midwives who provide homebirth services offer payment plans and other options to make the process more accessible for all families.

In conclusion, homebirth can be a safe, empowering, and cost-effective option for low-risk pregnancies. If you are considering homebirth, it is important to do your research and find a qualified midwife who can provide you with the care and support you need. With the right preparation and support, a homebirth can be a beautiful and memorable experience for both mother and child.

If you are looking to hire a doula you can visit our website.

Peaceful Birthing Doula

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Myth busting on Preparing for Birth and natural induction. Does it work??? How?

Myth Busting 

I am not a Dr. I am not suggesting for you to go against Dr. orders or suggestions. I am supplying you with information that will help you make an inform decision. I believe for every medical intervention there is a natural way. We must remember pharmaceutical drugs originated from somewhere. Before there was big pharma there was the Herbalist and Healer in the villages and towns. God created all things for us to use in some capacity. 

Over the years as a practicing Doula, Massage therapist, placenta encapsulation and Women's Health and Wellness herbalist, I have had many clients ask questions about preparing for labor and birth; or how to avoid medical induction. As I have supported more families, I have noticed consistently there has been some things that has stood out in terms of have a successful experience in natural induction.

Today’s blog will be about 2 common natural labor prep/induction methods. 

Myth or fact: For generations Midwives and village medicine people have advised women to consume many things like foods, fruits and herbs?  FACT

There are a couple natural induction methods that stood out to me. To date they are currently used and have been found by many women to be effective.  The big question is what the science behind it is and does it truly work. If you are pregnant this is about more than getting this baby out. Lol! though I know that is the end game, it is about understanding what this is doing to you and your body. Women have for generations been advised by people on what to do. Some are not qualified to offer advise but it doesn't necessarily stop them. So, lets figure this thing out.

 Finally, her are your answers. Also, you will find listed below references to all information provided. 

Have you been told about the benefits of Dates and Red raspberry leaf tea? If not let’s change that now. 

Dates 

If you have a sweet tooth, then this is the fruit for you. The date originates from the Date Palm Tree. Dates are a natural form of sugar. Dried dates are the better option over any chocolate or ice cream fix you may be looking for. Something to remember. when you are craving something it typically means your body is looking for the healthier version of that craving. Example: If your craving chocolate, your body is probably craving magnesium. 

Dates are packed with Folate. this is great because it can reduce the chances of birth defects. Iron is great for preventing anemia, Vitamin K great to give you and baby strong bones and Potassium helps to relax the blood vessels and lower blood pressure. It is also known for giving a very fatigued pregnant Mommy some much need energy. 

Researchers discovered that the women who ate six dates a day for 4 weeks had a shorter first stage of labor, a higher cervical dilatation, and more had intact membranes upon arrival at the hospital. (In other words, their cervix was riper for giving birth.) (Healthline.com) 

Now remember most are consuming Dates in a dried state. Dried Dates like all fruit can increase your caloric intake and are high in sugar. So, you need to be careful if you are a diabetic or have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes. You must stay safe and monitor your consumption of dates and limit them to no more than 6 daily. 

Don't worry there are other options if this one doesn't fit you. 

I have experienced many Beautiful Mommies sit around and pop these sweet things with fingers crossed hoping to help have a beautiful intervention free birth with little discomfort.

Red Raspberry Leaf Tea

We also, have Red Raspberry leaf tea. This is delicious and very helpful for many reasons. Whether you’re pregnant attempting to get the party started by naturally inducing your labor or you are simply looking to have a healthy womb, this tea can help. Ok let’s get into the beauty of Red Raspberry leaf tea.

 Red Raspberry leaf tea is an AMAZING herb. This beauty is considered a woman's herb. PLEASE DO NOT consume during the 1st trimester in large amounts. If you do please no more than one cup daily. Red can help men as well. Their benefit is to increase fertility. Red Raspberry leaf tea also is known as Rubus Idaeus she is a volatile oil this means she is aromatic, she is also an antiseptic, anti-microbial this all means she can help fight off infections. She is also known for use of Urinary tract infections. Red can stimulate nerve ending to relieve stress. She is also a Tannin. Tannins can bind proteins that are present in the skin and mucous membrane. This protein is Albumin. Tannins treat irritation, inflammation. She is also filled with Polyphenols; she can help cells from being damaged.  

Wow!! I feel like I said a mouth full. There is more. Raspberry leaves contain fragarine, a plant compound that helps tone and tighten muscles in the Pelvic area, including the walls of your uterus, this can help make delivery easier and may reduce the menstrual cramping caused by the spasms of these muscles.

Red contains Vitamin B (Folate), C - ascorbic acid, is necessary for the growth, development and repair of all body tissues. It's involved in many body functions, including formation of collagen, absorption of iron, the immune system, wound healing, and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth, Potassium, magnesium- reduces blood pressure, improve mood, reduce anxiety, reduce blood sugar, reduce risk if heart disease and improve migraine recovery, zinc-may effectively reduce inflammation, boost immune health, reduce your risk of age-related diseases, speed wound healing and improve acne symptoms. Phosphorus- build strong teeth, manage how your body stores and uses energy, reduce muscle pain after exercise, filter out waste in your kidneys, grow, maintain, and repair tissue and cells, produce DNA and RNA — the body's genetic building blocks, Iron -prevent anemia, including general energy and focus, gastrointestinal processes, the immune system, and the regulation of body temperature, Calcium is required for vascular contraction and vasodilation, muscle function, nerve transmission, intracellular signaling and hormonal secretion, and antioxidants.

While red raspberry leaf tea is typically recommended for the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, some women use Red to help with nausea and vomiting in the first trimester as well. The American Pregnancy Association also states that drinking the tea may reduce the need for interventions during childbirth. It also helps to bring down the placenta and help produce breastmilk. It can stop diarrhea and hemorrhaging.

Research suggests that the most optimal time to start drinking red raspberry leaf tea is at 32 weeks gestation. One study showed that taking 2.4 mg per day of red raspberry leaf in tablet form appears to be safe. As a tea, 1–3 cups per day are appropriate (Healthline.com) It’s recommended to limit your intake to 1 cup per day if you choose to consume it earlier in pregnancy. (Healthline.com)

Like all things you should consume it in moderation. However, if your experiencing any side effects after drinking the tea please stop consuming this Beauty. Everything isn't for everyone. If you experience Braxton Hicks contractions during pregnancy or have spotting in the second or third trimesters, you should also discontinue use.

I get excited every time I discuss beautiful herbs so if it was to much information I apologize. I hope you find this information helpful.

If your in need of a Doula or Placenta Encapsulator or Women’s Health and Wellness Herbalist please do not hesitate to call or email.

references 

www.healthline.com › health › pregnancy › dates-during-pregnancy

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21280989

https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-eating-dates-to-start-labor

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/red-raspberry-leaf-tea

Peaceful Birthing Doula

Educate, Encourage, Empower and Serving Women

http://www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

peacefulbirthingdoula@gmail.com

(630)481-6079

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Seeding and Feeding starts your legacy

Seeding and Feeding starts your legacy

We are such an Amazing creation with an AMAZING Creator. There are so many reasons for this comment. However, today my reason is Microbiome. You say "what are microbiome"?  

Microbiome are microorganisms in a particular environment (including the body or a part of the body)."we depend on a vast army of microbes to stay alive: a microbiome that protects us against germs, breaks down food to release energy, and produces vitamins"

 We all have trillions of microbiomes in our body however the amazing part of this is that it is our generational genetic make up. You pass this down to your family line after birth. Women give birth to their babies and the most amazing thing happens. The microbial transfer starts once the amniotic sac ruptures. Microbial are organisms  set your baby gut and  immune system.

 Do not mistaken this for GBS. What is GBS you ask?  Group B streptococcus (GBS) is a type of bacterial infection that can be found in a pregnant woman’s vagina or rectum. This bacteria is normally found in the vagina and/or rectum of about 25% of all healthy adult women. Women who test positive for GBS are said to be colonized. A mother can pass GBS to her baby during delivery. This is a very serious issue. However I am not able to go into more detail at the time.

Imagine this, you have passed down generations of bacteria that establishes your child gut and immune system. This exposure happens like a fine tuned machine. This exchange happens only once. Your pregnancy is one experience that is beyond any one persons comprehension. You were able to carry another human being. Wow! You feel this human growing, moving and interacting with you. I was in awe of this experience.

 As a mother you consider the legacy you strive to build for your child and never in a million years could you imagine that you are passing down to your child trillions of your Mother, Grand Mother, Great Grand Mother and so on and so on microbiome. Your baby original contact happens when the sac ruptures then baby passes through the canal and out the vagina. This is when baby comes in contact with vaginal bacteria after your gut bacteria. Now we happen to poop on the table because we use the same muscles to push that's when we defecate. Pooping during birth will be discussed in another Blog at a later date. If there is any poop on or near your child as it exits your baby come in contact with more microbials and then finally you do skin to skin and initiate the feeding process. You are not just feeding your little one. These organisms perform important functions that include digesting unused nutrients, producing vitamins, stimulating normal immune development, countering harmful bacteria and fostering maturation of the gut.

 Can you believe this? Now consider this your breast milk is more special than you know? Your milk provides sugary food for the microbial. We all know bacteria love sugar. However, this sugar is good and so is this bacteria. This a part of the maturation of the gut. As you feed the bacteria you create a environment where the bacteria grow and there for create a good bacteria haven. 

  The other amazing thing is that this exchange happens in a particular order so that each phase prepares the microbial for the next phase. I can barely contain myself A.M.A.Z.ING... 

  Now for the Mom who is told that you have to have a C-section no worries. You can create a microbial exchange. There is something that some Dr. will do call Seeding. Seeding is when the Dr. will expose baby to your microbials. The most wonderful thing for woman who would love to pass their legacy on. 

 For those who elect to have a C-section it is definitely your choice but understand the convenience you create is more than just a quick birth.  Many studies have suggested that the trillions of micro-organisms that are in our human body influence our present and future health and may account for the rising serious medical conditions now plaguing Americans, youth and elderly.

  Researchers believe a disruption in one or more of these phases can lead to serious, health problems. One thing they mentioned was gut maturation is impaired or delayed, some experts believe undigested proteins could leak into the bloodstream and trigger an allergy or gluten intolerance, or an impaired immune system could result in an autoimmune disorder like Type 1 diabetes, juvenile arthritis or multiple sclerosis.

 Can you believe this all from a bacterial change or lack of exchange.

When I gave birth to my precious daughter I never consider that my birthing experience was more than I knew. I passed not just my bacteria but My Mothers, My deceased Grand Mother and Great Grand Mother bacteria. I miss them so much and to know that I am carrying them with me and not just in memory and I have passed it on to my daughter this has given me great joy and comfort. 

 So, Beautiful Woman and Mommies I hope you are excited for your part in legacy building in your family. 

I hope this is helpful and give you useful information. If you are informed you need a c-section please ask your Provider about seeding. If you are electing a c-section I hope this has given you useful information to create a stabilized gut and immune system

 Do not miss understand I am not judging anyone. Your birth is your birth. Be proud of it.

I hope you serve you soon.

Peaceful Birthing Doula

Educate, Encourage, Empower and Serving Women

http://www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

peacefulbirthingdoula@gmail.com

(630)481-6079

Schedule: https://squareup.com/appointments/book/7V52CNRZR2T3Z/peaceful-birthing-doula-addison-il

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Doula Dad?

DOULA DAD? 

Can it be  such a thing? 

I am asked pretty often by Expecting fathers "Why do we need a doula"? I have to remind them there is more to being a doula than standing in the room. Having a doula present is invaluable. The misunderstanding is they believe the Nurse, Physician or Midwife will be able to help them in all situations. You have to understand if your not the only patient in labor their time is divided between all patients. The staff are really clinicians. Their goal is to make sure you and baby are healthy not to make sure your baby isn't sunnyside up, in a funky position that is stalling labor or your anxious about something.  As Your Doula we offer so much to the birth not just telling a mom to breath. Consider this for me. We offer comfort measures, affirming, we also assist mom during labor. We can pick up on if labor has changed course. We fight for a little time to allow your body to respond to changes made. Dad, this doesn't take away from your love and affection. We as doulas acknowledge it, value it and we tap into it when is necessary.

Dad, when you have a doula you have a team member. You know your wife better than anyone. The Doula will rely on this knowledge. We Doulas are their to support, encourage, advocate and create an environment that is best for you and your family as you welcome your little bundle of joy. You will not be left out; this will allow you to experience the birth instead of working during the birth. It can be hard work trying to remember did I give her water? Did she change positions? does baby like this position? What to do to offer her comfort?Why do they want to break her water? There is a lot more to being a doula than people know. We know how things are going while your beautiful wife is laboring. We know when to suggest she should get in to the shower etc.

Doulas do more than rub your feet and back. We don't just sit at your wife bed side. I make sure every Family has what is best. If your wife isn't comfortable with having an IV, If its not medically necessary I will  provide you all with the information to make sure she doesn't have the IV. You don't want to do your vaccine at hospital you would like your family physician to handle this, I am there to remind the staff of this plan. You want a delayed cord clamp. I am not caught in the moment I am their repeating "delayed cord clamp" until they acknowledge what I have said.  I am there to make sure you are able to benefit from ever right and joy in birth.

You should never have to be concern about anything. The Doula will make sure you are updated and informed when it is necessary. Why worry? Why not enjoy the best day of your life. Birth is an experience for you and your family enjoy it and allow the doula to support you.

Peaceful Birthing Doula is a company that Educate, Encourage, Serve and Support families in Labor, Birth and Postpartum recovery. Do not be concerned about a Doula taking a moment from you. Allow her to support you both. Enjoy and experience that you can never take back you Childs Birth.


Please do not hesitate to call or email me for any questions.

Tunisia Macklin,

Peaceful Birthing Doula

Educate, Encourage, Empower and Serving Women

http://www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

peacefulbirthingdoula@gmail.com

(630)481-6079

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