When you get home from the hospital, you will spend your days and nights tending to your baby’s needs. It may seem selfish to think of yourself; by doing so, you’ll actually be doing a favor for your baby and your whole family. Here are some suggestions for taking care of the caregiver.

• If you’re breastfeeding, make sure you get an extra 500 calories a day. Eat lots of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and protein sources to ensure you’re getting the proper nutrients for you and your baby. Treat yourself to a dessert occasionally.
• Rest or do something relaxing when your baby naps. Don’t use this time to catch up on housework or tackle any new projects. Unplug the phone and tape a do not disturb note to your front door if necessary.
• Accept and encourage gifts of meals and food.
• Ask a close relative or hire a doula to help with housework, meal preparation, and entertainment of older children during the first several weeks.
• As you feel stronger and get a doctor’s approval, begin to exercise. Taking stroller walks with your baby will benefit both of you.
• Keep your baby close-by at night and/or breastfeed while lying on your side in bed so that nighttime feedings are as non-disruptive as possible.
• Let someone else do heavy housework or lifting for the first six to eight weeks while your body slowly returns to normal.
• Drink plenty of water and juice to maintain your milk supply and help get rid of excess weight. Avoid caffeine and alcohol because it can get into your milk supply and interfere with sleep.
• Call the doctor if you have excessive bleeding, any foul-smelling discharge, fever, diarrhea/vomiting, or symptoms of postpartum depression.
• Don’t feel obligated to entertain visitors or send out those thank you notes until you are feeling up to it.

Taking care of yourself is crucial to maintaining an adequate milk supply and having the energy to care for your family. The first weeks and months after having a new baby can be very difficult, both physically and mentally. Making sure you get the proper nutrition, rest, and medical attention will help you survive these trying times.