Things I Wish I Knew About Postpartum

No one really talks about what happens after the baby arrives. We prep for labor. We decorate the nursery. We pack the hospital bag. But the postpartum period? That’s a whole different world—and I wish I had known what to expect. Here are the things I wish someone had sat me down and gently told me after I became a mom.

1. The Real Job Just Started

By the end of the third trimester, I was so ready to have my baby. I could barely walk without waddling, sleep was a joke, and every little movement felt like it might be the one. I thought, “Once the baby is here, I’ll finally feel better.” But what no one tells you? The real challenge begins when baby comes out. It’s a 24/7 job—nonstop feedings, diaper changes, cluster feeding at midnight, and all the in-between moments of “am I doing this right?” For new moms with no experience, the learning curve is steep, and the training? Practically on the job. You’re healing, you’re figuring out how to care for a newborn, and you’re doing it all on little to no sleep. It’s intense—and totally normal to feel overwhelmed.

2. The Reality of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is beautiful, but it can also be really hard. I had this image in my head that it would be the most natural thing in the world. But in reality? It came with cracked nipples, latching struggles, and so much second-guessing. The truth is: most moms face challenges. Don’t be hard on yourself. Seek out lactation support, give yourself grace, and be open to what works for you. Whether you nurse, pump, combo feed, or use formula—you’re feeding your baby with love. That’s what matters most.

3. No Time to Sleep

Sleep? What’s that? Unless you have a unicorn baby, expect to be up every 2–3 hours. And if you do get a 4-hour stretch, it might feel like you won the lottery. The real kicker? Even when baby sleeps, you might be washing bottles, pumping, or trying to squeeze in a shower. It’s not just sleep deprivation—it’s no sleep at all. You’ll feel like a zombie, and that’s okay. Try to create a strategy with your partner or family. Alternate shifts if you can. Let go of the laundry. Sleep when the baby sleeps—even if it’s just 30 minutes. This phase is exhausting, but it does pass.

4. Your Body Doesn’t Go Back to Pre-Pregnancy Immediately… Or Ever

I naively thought my belly would flatten right after birth. Instead, I looked about six months pregnant for weeks. No one told me that’s normal. Your body just spent nine months growing a human. It won’t “bounce back” in a few weeks. And honestly? It might never look exactly like it did before—and that’s okay. Some things will shift permanently. Muscles stretched, organs moved, hormones changed everything. And a little human was born through you. Don’t let social media steal your joy. The real gift isn’t the snapback—it’s the baby in your arms. Focus on bonding. Soak in the snuggles. Your worth isn’t measured by your waistline.

5. Postpartum Depression Is Real

The hormone crash after birth is intense. Add in no sleep, a crying baby, physical healing, and a million new responsibilities—it’s no wonder so many moms feel overwhelmed. For some, it’s the “baby blues.” For others, it’s deeper—postpartum depression or anxiety. It doesn’t mean you don’t love your baby. And it doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means your body and mind are trying to adjust to a massive life shift. Please don’t keep it all inside. Talk to your partner, a friend, your doctor. Get help if you need it. It’s good for you and your baby. And remember: you’re not alone.

6. Prioritizing Nutrition and Hydration

I always heard that moms need to eat well—but I didn’t fully understand how hard that would be when you have zero hands free. Add in the demands of breastfeeding and pumping, and you quickly realize how important hydration is, too. Plan ahead if you can. Make freezer meals during your third trimester. Accept those “can I bring you dinner?” offers. Keep snacks and water bottles in every room. You need fuel to heal and to care for your little one. It’s not selfish—it’s essential.

7. The Importance of Pelvic Floor Exercises

After birth, I didn’t even know where my pelvic floor was. But trust me, your body will let you know it needs some love. Pelvic floor muscles go through a lot during pregnancy and delivery. Strengthening them with simple Kegel exercises can help with bladder control, core strength, and overall recovery. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t be shy—see a pelvic floor therapist. Your future self will thank you.

8. The Importance of Mom Support Groups

One of the most comforting things I discovered during the postpartum phase? Other moms who get it. Whether it’s your BFFs who also have little ones, new mom friends from a birth class, or even the mama you met at a breastfeeding support group—having a circle of women who are walking through the same season can make a world of difference. Many hospitals and local clinics offer postpartum meetups, lactation support groups, or new mom coffee chats. These spaces are more than just a chance to talk about nursing or diaper rash—they’re lifelines. You can vent, laugh, cry, share tips, and realize you’re not alone in this beautiful chaos. Motherhood can feel isolating, especially in the early weeks. Surrounding yourself with others who understand the sleepless nights, the self-doubt, and the tiny triumphs can be incredibly healing.

Final Thoughts

Postpartum is raw, messy, beautiful, and hard. It’s a season of healing, of learning, of letting go—and of slowly stepping into a new version of yourself. You don’t have to do it perfectly. You just have to keep showing up, one sleepy, love-filled day at a time. You’ve got this, mama.