Graterford Newborn Photographer
Are you ready for some candid, unfiltered insights about postpartum life? Your Graterford Newborn Photographer has got you 😉
Even though I haven’t given birth myself, working as a Graterford Newborn Photographer, I’ve had the privilege of hearing countless honest, real experiences from new moms—giving me a front-row seat to the lesser-discussed aspects of life after delivery.
Brace yourself, as we dive into the raw, and maybe even a little TMI, but isn’t that what true friendship is all about? 😉
Ripping off the band aid with things to know number one…
1. This is one most moms aren’t thinking about that is… the first bowel movement after giving birth can be scary and painful. (not photograph worthy)
Let’s face it—nobody wants to talk about bowel movements. But as a Graterford Newborn Photographer who’s spent countless hours chatting with new moms, I’ve got to keep it real with you. Despite the “social norms,” it’s so important to know what to expect after giving birth.
The first postpartum poop? Yeah… it can be scary and even painful. Stool softeners can help ease the process by softening your stool and preventing constipation. And don’t forget to drink plenty of fluids—water, prune juice, or anything hydrating—to keep things moving.
After talking with so many moms, I’ve learned that taking care of this early on can make a huge difference in how comfortable and confident you feel. Trust me, it’s worth prioritizing.
We’re friends here, so I’m spilling all the tea—even the TMI stuff. Even if you’ve had a c-section, you’ll still need to get things loosened up. You actually use your abdominal muscles a lot more than you think when it’s time to go number two.
2. Postpartum bleeding can be heavy and last for up to six weeks.
You got to skip out on your period for 9 months but, now it’s back with a vengeance!
Time to stock up on heavy-duty pads and avoid tampons.
Share information about local resources for moms postpartum like a postpartum doula who can answer questions about what’s normal and when it’s time to see a doctor or their midwife.
3. You might experience night sweats as your body gets rid of the excess fluid from pregnancy.
I knew about this but honestly had no idea why! Night sweats can be surprising and uncomfortable, but they’re a normal part of the postpartum experience.
Your body has been holding onto extra fluid during pregnancy, and after giving birth, it needs to get rid of them. This can lead to sweating during the night, which can be uncomfortable and even wake you up.
I suggest keeping a fan close by so you can quickly turn it on when you feel sweaty. Here is a fan with a remote so you don’t even have to get out of bed to turn it on!
As a Graterford Newborn Photographer, I’ve talked to so many new moms who were caught off guard by this. One way to deal with night sweats is to wear lightweight pajamas and use breathable bedding (here are my favorite lightweight pajamas). Also, once again, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
4. Your nipples will hurt, crack and bleed.
Breastfeeding is natural right? I think we all can agree it is – but what doesn’t feel natural is how much it might hurt those first couple of days and how much nipple cream you’re going to blow through in 24 hours!
Your breasts might leak milk and be sore, even if you’re not breastfeeding. Nursing pads + nipple cream are a lifesaver.
Lactation Specialist: If you’re wondering if it’s time to get professional help with breastfeeding and where to find breastfeeding resources in Graterford,
Click here to read 6 Places to Find Breastfeeding Support and Help.
5. It’s common to feel sad in the first few days after giving birth.
Everyone says becoming a mom is the best feeling ever, right?
Not for everyone, and that’s ok!!
The first few days after giving birth can be an emotional rollercoaster, and it’s common to feel a range of emotions, from joy to anxiety to sadness.
These feelings are often referred to as “baby blues” and are a normal part of the postpartum experience.
BUT, if these feelings persist or get worse, it’s important to seek help from a healthcare provider. Postpartum depression is a serious condition that affects many new moms, and it’s important to get the support you need to feel better.
I have put together a guide you can download and have with you so you do not need to root through google for help.
6. It’s important to take care of your perineum if you had a tear or episiotomy. Ice packs, witch hazel pads, and sitz baths can provide relief.
If you had a tear or episiotomy during delivery, it’s important to take care of your perineum as it heals. This can be a painful and uncomfortable process, but there are things you can do to make it easier.
You can use ice packs, witch hazel pads, or sitz baths to reduce swelling and pain.
Padsicles are a popular DIY solution for postpartum relief. They are essentially frozen pads that are infused with soothing ingredients like witch hazel, aloe vera, and lavender oil. Click here for a step by step how to make padsicles!
Other ways to alleviate pain may include, using a donut pillow or taking warm baths. Ask moms around you the way they found best to recover. Remember to find support from your village.
7. You might think you’re going bald with all the hair loss.
I’ve heard from clients and friends that they lost clumps of hair those first few days and weeks postpartum. I’m sure that’s a little scary!
You might be alarmed to see a lot of hair falling out after having a baby!
But don’t worry, postpartum hair loss is actually quite common and temporary for many new mothers. This happens because during pregnancy, hormonal changes cause hair to enter a resting phase, leading to less shedding.
After giving birth, your hormone levels start to return to normal, and your hair begins to shed the extra strands it held onto during pregnancy.
Postpartum hair loss usually starts a few months after delivery and can last for several months.
To minimize the effects, try using gentle hair care products, avoiding tight hairstyles, and maintaining a balanced diet. Rest assured, your hair will gradually return to its normal growth cycle, and the shedding should slow down.
As a Graterford newborn photographer I include professional hair for my session. Giving all of my mamas confidence and peace of mind that despite what stage of postpartum they are in they can feel comfortable.
8. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed and to ask for help.
Listen mama, it’s totally okay to feel overwhelmed after bringing a new human into the world.
After all, you’re doing one of the most important jobs ever!
So, if you need help, don’t be afraid to reach out to others around you.
Seriously, nobody expects you to be Supermom.
Your friends, family, and healthcare providers are there for you, just waiting to lend a hand or a listening ear. Whether you need advice on how to soothe a fussy baby, some company during those late-night feedings, or just someone to hold the baby while you take a much-deserved shower, PLEASE reach out.
Remember, asking for help doesn’t make you weak—it makes you wise!
Go ahead and read that again!!
Asking for help doesn’t make you weak—it makes you wise!
Because taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your little one.
You got this mama! Join in on our local Facebook Mom group! Meet new moms, learn tips, laugh at the silly kid stories, and feel understood. Become part of something sweet and much needed.
Now you’re in the know about some of the less glamorous, but oh-so-real parts of postpartum life.
But remember, you’re not alone in this and it’s totally ok to lean on others when you need to!! Even your Graterford Newborn Photographer 😉
