Postpartum Period: What to Expect During the Postpartum Period? (Prepa

Postpartum Period: What to Expect During the Postpartum Period? (Preparation Guide)

By Baran Unal

on Nov 30, 2025

The period after a baby is born is the most intense, least discussed, and most challenging phase of the parenting journey. Known colloquially as the postpartum period , it is a transitional time for the mother's physical recovery and for the couple to adapt to new relationship dynamics .

Here are some practical and emotional suggestions to help couples prepare realistically for this period and get through it more easily:

1. Insomnia and Fatigue Management: The New Normal

Chronic insomnia , which often accompanies the birth of a newborn , is a major factor affecting the physical and mental health of couples.

Establish a Sleep Shift System: Couples should establish a "shift system" by sharing sleep hours. For example, the father-to-be could try sleeping during the first half of the night, and the mother during the second half. This ensures that both get several hours of uninterrupted sleep.
Sleeping with the Baby: As soon as the baby falls asleep, the mother should put aside all household chores and focus on resting. Minimizing expectations of housework is essential for healthy rest.
Little Helpers: When the father-to-be takes an active role in tasks like bottle feeding or diaper changing, it significantly lightens the burden on the mother.

2. Relationship Dynamics and Being a Spouse

The baby takes the couple's entire focus upon itself, and the relationship dynamics change rapidly. They can go from being romantic partners to suddenly becoming solely parents.

Keep Communication Open: Honestly express your feelings and needs, even during exhausting moments. Use supportive language instead of blaming each other.
Small Appointments: To keep your relationship alive, create 15-minute "spend time together" rituals each day. Even simple moments like having coffee together or cuddling while watching a movie will strengthen your bond.
Returning to Sexual Life: It's normal for mothers to experience decreased sexual desire after childbirth due to recovery and fatigue . Don't put pressure on them and don't limit intimacy to just sexual intercourse . Simple physical contact, such as hugging and kissing, helps maintain emotional closeness.

3. Emotional Health and Postpartum Depression

Postpartum hormonal drops and sleep deprivation can cause intense emotional fluctuations in mothers.

'Baby Blues' vs. Depression: Emotional sensitivity (baby blues) in the first two weeks after childbirth is normal. However, if this lasts longer than two weeks, or if there is severe anxiety , sadness, or difficulty bonding with the baby, this could be a sign of postpartum depression .
The Prospective Father's Role: The partner should closely monitor the mother's emotional state and take any deep, prolonged mood swings seriously. Professional help should be sought without hesitation if any doubts arise.
Non-Virtual Support: Building a support network, such as with friends, family members, or a therapist, prevents the mother from feeling alone.

4. Nutrition and Physical Recovery

Mothers need the right nutrition for postpartum recovery and breastfeeding.

Easy Meal Planning: Ask friends and family for food support. Keeping healthy , pre-prepared meals in the freezer helps maintain a balanced diet.
Hydration and Supplements: Drinking plenty of water is vital during breastfeeding. Continuing supplements started during pregnancy, such as folic acid , omega-3 (DHA) , and vitamin D , as recommended by your doctor, will support a faster recovery for the mother.

5. Accepting and Prioritizing Support

It's important to relieve the pressure to be a perfect parent during the postpartum period .

Learn to Ask for Help: When guests arrive, make clear requests such as "Don't make coffee, hold the baby for 30 minutes" or "Wash the dishes."
Put Household Chores Second: Be flexible about the clutter of the house for the first few months. Your priority should be resting, caring for the baby, and bonding with your spouse.

Conclusion: The period after a baby is born is a marathon, not a sprint. Sleepless nights and changes in relationship dynamics are temporary. As a couple, be patient, kind, and supportive of each other. Remember, being a good parent starts with being a good spouse!