As a midwife I put a lot of thought and effort into my pregnancy and birthing experience. My first son was born at home in a birthing pool surrounded by people I loved. But none of my midwifery knowledge prepared me for the first few weeks after having a baby. For me the of pregnancy was very stressful and physically challenging. I had a long labor; every part of my body hurt and physically I felt like a truck had ran over me. I share with you some post partum stress reducing survival tips that made the end of my second pregnancy more enjoyable.

1. Arrange help for the household chores:

Believe me; you will be too exhausted to keep up with everything post partum. Do not be afraid to ask for help during your pregnancy or request maid cleaning gift certificates as a great baby shower gift that can be used after having a baby.

2. Stock your freezer with pre-cooked meals:

New moms get hungry at odd hours and it is not unusual to be too tired to cook.

3. Schedule chiropractic adjustments during the first week post partum:

Pregnancy and childbirth moves many of your pelvic bones out of alignment (even if you have a cesarean section birth). Use the expertise of your chiropractor to realign your pelvis, hips and back. This will definitely reduce post partum stress and expedite your post partum recovery.

4. Have a good supply of large sanitary napkins and adult diapers in your hospital bag and at home.

I am not kidding! After pregnancy new moms will experience very heavy bleeding post partum and regular sanitary towels will not do the job. Most hospitals give new moms cheap sanitary towels post partum. This will also save your bed linen from been destroyed.

5. Sleep when your baby sleeps.

As a new mom post partum be prepared to be exhausted. Take every opportunity to sleep whenever your baby sleeps.

6. Do not be afraid to cry (and do not worry about it).

Pregnancy, childbirth and post partum results in changing levels of hormones. After childbirth there is a rapid decrease in hormones that occurs approximately on the third, fifth and tenth day. These hormone adjustments can be emotionally challenging for the mother. You may cry for no apparent reason so let it out and know this is all part of a normal pregnancy post partum.

7. Supplement with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are breast-feeding safe:

Every organ and system in your body is under a lot of physical stress post partum as they attempt to return to their normal non pregnancy state. High quality vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are safe for breast-feeding will provide the foundation to prevent post partum complications and result in an overall a better pregnancy experience.

Having a new baby is a wonderful time in a womans life. Plan ahead, and think of ways to support yourself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually before you are all consumed with your new baby. I am a great believer in the good internal health of the body for optimum health and prevention of stress, sickness, disease and depression. I highly recommend all pregnant and new moms supplement with high quality vitamins, minerals and antioxidants needed to support the many challenges of pregnancy, birth and motherhood.

Motherhood can be an extraordinary, yet exhausting experience for a woman. Pregnancy has a huge emotional, mental, spiritual, and energetic side to it. The more you understand these aspects the easier and less symptomatic your pregnancy and post partum will be. Learning how to connect with the emotions of your new baby will allow you to enhance your post partum experience and create long term, strong bonding between you and your baby.