How to Create a Postpartum Plan

I've got a nifty postpartum plan template (plus a sample postpartum plan from my 5th baby!) over in the Resources section of the website. But you've likely got a few questions about how to get started. Here ya go!

When should I start making my Postpartum Plan? 

If you’re already given birth, the time is now. :) Start right where you are. 

If you’re still pregnant, I start in the first trimester (!), with just the very first question: “Who can help me, and what can they help me with?” This is a possibility-focused question. It doesn’t start with what I need, it starts with what’s available to me, what others have offered or I already know they’re willing to give. This is the help that’s already in my corner (read more about grandma tribes and how to build one, here)

How long does the postpartum plan cover?

The short answer: It’s up to you! 

The more helpful answer: Generally, considering the first 6 weeks postpartum is a good time frame, and then perhaps the next 6 weeks after that, taking you through 3 months postpartum. After that point, you may be able to make a plan for the next 3 months rather than the next 6 weeks, because you’ll have some new routines established and hopefully be ready to pick a few things back up. 

Things I’d like someone else to take over: 

These are things that need to get done (whether within the house or family commitments that need to continue) but they can be delegated to someone else.

Things I’m stopping for now:

Not everything makes sense to continue during the first weeks and months of postpartum. Some things need to be paused or ended. The goal is here to think intentionally about what needs to go. You’re not signing on the dotted line, you’re dreaming, brainstorming, considering what you’d like to be done with. Of course, you can change your mind. Of course, you can (and should!) discuss with your spouse. But the bottom line is that some things will not be a good fit early in postpartum. 

Things I’d like to keep doing:

These are things I prefer to do myself because the way they’re done matters a lot OR because I truly enjoy doing them (this is me with grocery shopping! I actually really enjoy it.)

Moments of steadiness:

In her postpartum cookbook Sitting the Month, Clarissa Wei talks about how food and rest don’t make the sleeplessness or hormones or other postpartum challenges go away, but they can provide moments of steadiness amongst the change. What brings you moments of steadiness, that you can intentionally plan for, that help you feel at rest or more like yourself? Specific foods? A short nighttime routine for yourself to wind down? Reading before bed? Magazines at your nursing station? Certain prayer practices? Watching an episode of a new show every night with your husband?

Skills for bigger kids (if relevant): 

Similar to ‘what do I want someone else to take over,’ except for your kids! Even 2 and 3-year-olds can learn to help with basic things, like throwing away the new baby’s diapers or bringing you your water bottle.