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Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional and therefore cannot prescribe, treat, or diagnose. I’m a mom and health coach sharing my knowledge and experiences for educational purposes. This does not take the place of any professional medical advice.
The prescribed rest and gradual re-mobilization of the 555 Rule serve as a guarded roadmap to your body’s recovery. This structured approach minimizes the risks of postpartum complications by allowing your tissues to heal without interference.
Knowing that these 15 days are dedicated to your healing fosters a sense of peace and control amid the whirlwind of new responsibilities.
The special time you have with your newborn thanks to the 555 Rule, which promotes lots of contact and uninterrupted feeding sessions, is truly unbeatable for building that early bond. These moments marinated in the skin-to-skin presence with your child build the foundation for a lifelong connection.
During the first five days, sleeping as much as possible is non-negotiable. The sleep may still be fragmented by feedings, and that’s okay. Every additional hour spent in bed aids your recovery.
In the second segment, continuing to nap and sleep whenever your baby does remains imperative. (To a point – if you’re not tired enough to sleep and would rather get in some binge watching, I totally support that.) And in the final five days, as you ease into day activities, continue to prioritize rest, especially during the afternoons.
In the initial days, focus on easy-to-eat, nutrient-dense foods. Sit-down meals may feel like a luxury, so prepare snacks and have them within easy reach. (P.S. I have a list of 35 One Handed Snacks for Breastfeeding Moms here.)
Throughout the 15 days, maintain hydration and consume meals designed to sustain your recovery. Remember, you’re still eating for two, so ensure that each morsel that enters your body has the potential to nourish you and your baby. This juice (code SHAREYL for 10% off) was also huge in my recovery, and I continue drinking it to this day.
In the moments when the baby is not actively needing you, turn your attention to self-care. It doesn’t need to be elaborate—simple postpartum baths, deep breathing exercises, or applying nipple butter and shields to nursing nipples constitute self-care.
Being gentle with yourself physically and emotionally will better equip you for challenges you face ahead.
The transition into motherhood is one of the most profound shifts in a woman’s life. Remember, every experienced mother was once a first-timer in the days of her own postpartum phase. Seek comfort in knowing that you are not alone in your questions and uncertainties.
Some common challenges first-time mothers face are the feelings of isolation, difficulty breastfeeding, and an overwhelming amount of (sometimes unsolicited) advice. Combat isolation by keeping lines of communication open with friends, family, or support groups. For breastfeeding, seek help from a lactation consultant or join a breastfeeding support group. My doula also recommended this book to me, which I found to be helpful.
Regarding advice, remember that you have the right to choose what is best for you and your baby. Mom gut is real. The best guidance comes from instinct, support, and sources you trust.
Warmest wishes sent to you during this precious time. And if you’re looking for more tips like this, I’d love to see you in my Facebook group.
xo, Mary