For mothers
Caring for yourself after birth
Recovery, rest and asking for help: a reminder that looking after yourself is part of looking after your baby.
The weeks after birth are a time of enormous change. Your body is recovering, your sleep is broken and your days revolve around a new little person. Looking after yourself is not a luxury — it is part of caring for your baby.
Rest and recovery
Sleep when you can, keep visits short, and let others take on cooking and housework. Gentle walks can lift your mood; wait for your postnatal check before returning to more strenuous exercise.
Eat and drink well
Regular, balanced meals and plenty of fluids help your energy levels — especially if you are breastfeeding. Keep easy, nourishing snacks within reach.
Your feelings matter
Feeling tearful or overwhelmed in the first days — the “baby blues” — is common and usually passes within two weeks. If low mood, anxiety or a sense of not coping lasts longer or feels intense, please talk to your doctor, midwife or health visitor. Postnatal depression is common and treatable, and asking for help is a sign of strength.
