erin nuckols shares her suggestions for a successful postpartum period. she is a new mama, an excellent communicator, and also part of the roanoke doula collective. her strategy for navigating the 4th trimester was fresh on her mind because she recently had her first baby. in her free time, erin enjoys visiting with loved ones, hiking/walking in nature, gardening, and making food. now, i am eager to taste this food she speaks of…..
erin, as a new mom yourself, what are some things you did to prepare for postpartum?
communication was key. i mean really really talking and thinking deeply about what we wanted 4th trimester to look like and being very intent in preparing. i tried to think of all the things i knew were important to me (ie. following a traditional lying in time of 40 days, minimizing non-family or stressful visitors) and things i could be flexible about or let go of (ie. regular house work like sweeping, dusting, etc.)
it was most important to our family to talk about how to preserve me and my partner’s mental health in the days and weeks postpartum.
what was the best thing you did for yourself?
ask for what i need, ask for support, and give myself time. the hormonal fluctuations paired with lack of sleep were so intense. we had talked so much that when i was having a hormonal response, i was able to name it and receive a loving, gentle reaction from my support people. i didn’t need to explain.
what one piece of advice would you suggest for pregnant moms and the 4th trimester?
create a loving, nurturing bubble around yourself, your new babe, and your home. only invite those who can provide zero chaotic energy and no judgment into the space. hold your home in this tranquil space for as long as possible. verbalize your needs and then let people who love you meet those needs as best they can.
if there was a wish list for postpartum support, what would your suggestions include?
loving hands; open ears, arms, shoulders; and warm, nourishing soul food.
erin has just had a baby and will be on a break until july.
roanoke doula collective: erin nuckols (970) 218 – 8013 email: en@lunarelm.com
for more reading on this topic from new moms, colleen, shares her suggestions and how she prepares for postpartum.
