This is a guide to help you and your partner get ready for life with your baby. It walks you through the parts of daily life you might not have thought about yet, so you have a plan for each one, before you actually need it. Think of it as setting up your support system in advance, so the fourth trimester feels a little less overwhelming and a lot more doable.
We'll also send a printable PDF version to your inbox, so there's zero pressure to finish this all in one sitting.
This is just for your plan, so we can call it "The ___ Family Postpartum Plan."
Parenting Roles
Who's doing what?
Talking through expectations now saves a lot of frustration later. Be honest here, this is between the two of you.
Family Responsibilities
Who's handling each task?
It may be one of you, both of you, or someone you hire. Nobody has to do it all.
Sleep and Rest
Where will baby sleep, and who's on duty?
Crib in his/her room
In our room, in a crib/co-sleeper/bassinet/Snoo
Co-sleeping in my bed
Mom
Partner
Family Member
Friend
Postpartum Doula
Mom
Partner
Family Member
Friend
Postpartum Doula
Who can help you?
List names and contact info for people you can call on.
Eating Well & Hydration
Let's make sure you're actually eating.
Infant Feeding Support
What's the feeding plan?
Breastfeed on demand
Breastfeed on a schedule
Pump and bottle feed
Formula feed
Combination of breastfeeding & bottle feeding
Offer a pacifier when needed
Local resources
Sibling Care
Taking care of your other kiddos
Pet Care
Don't forget the fur babies
Housekeeping & Other Responsibilities
Who's keeping the house running?
Laundry, dishes, trash, tidying, vacuuming, groceries, errands, thank-you cards, all of it.
Parents' "Me Time"
You still get to be a person, too
Community Support
Your people
Mental Health Support
This part matters just as much
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) affect up to 20% of pregnant people and new parents, and dads can go through it too. Having this list ready means you're not searching for it at 2am when you need it most.
Yes
No
The baby blues
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders
Moving and Getting Outside
Fresh air, easy movement
Time outside doing light exercise does wonders for your mood and your body. Start easy, aim for 30 minutes a day, and try to get outside daily, even if it's just a slow walk.
Cleared
Not yet
Walking outside with the stroller
Swimming
Yoga
Light housework
Gardening
Trips to the store
Visitors
Set your boundaries now
Don't feel bad about this. You might not know the exact right times until baby's here, but it helps to have a starting point you can share with people.
Parental Leave & Returning to Work
Easing back in
Mom
Partner
You're all set
You got this.
Building a postpartum plan is one of the best things you can do to get ready for this next chapter. Flexibility matters too. This is your foundation, feel free to adjust it as you go and shape it around what your family actually needs.
Reach out to us any time
You're heading into something beautiful, with plenty of hard days mixed in. Trust yourselves, and remember, you're stronger than you know. And if you want support along the way, we're here for that.
Buddha Belly Doulas buddhabellybirth.com
hello@buddhabellybirth.com
(727) 489-4750
You're all set