I had no idea that the postpartum phase was more than sleepless nights and taking care of a newborn. Assuming I would bounce back to my pre-baby self with little effort or recovery time, I ignored anything related to postpartum. I was not at all prepared for how depleted I felt, both emotionally and physically. During my second pregnancy, I read a big stack of postpartum books and made some changes. This time, I prioritized a slow postpartum recovery. So far, my physical and mental health have noticeably benefited from this gentler approach.
In the United States, the postpartum period is largely ignored. New moms are rushed back to the workplace, household chores, and family responsibilities. This largely ignores the toll of 9 months of pregnancy, the effects of labor and delivery, and the exhaustion of caring for a newborn around the clock. Postpartum rest and recovery must be a priority. The 7 postpartum books listed below were incredibly helpful in planning my recovery period. Even more notable, I was also motivated to ask for (and accept) help and prioritize rest to fully recover.
7 Postpartum Books to Read
1. The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother by Heng Ou, Amely Greeven, & Marisa Belger
The First Forty Days reminds readers that those 40 days postpartum are an essential time for nourishing mothers. This collection of healing recipes for the new mom is also a guide to slowing down and prioritizing postpartum recovery. It was refreshing to read a book that recognizes the massive feat of pregnancy and birth. And the necessity of prioritizing recovery and self-care. Specifically, I loved the focus on staying warm postpartum. No one warned me about postpartum chills. I felt much better after following the book’s advice to bundle up, drink tea, and eat warming foods.
2. To Have and To Hold by Molly Millwood
To Have and To Hold is an exploration of the transition into motherhood and how this new role can disrupt all other identities and relationships. Millwood voices the feelings moms are often ashamed of sharing aloud and pairs these feelings with data-driven research. This is an essential postpartum read for rediscovering identity, navigating relationship shifts, and confronting mom guilt.
3. The Postnatal Depletion Cure by Dr. Oscar Serrallach
Before reading The Postnatal Depletion Cure, I had no idea how pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding disrupt the balance of nutrients in the body. This is an essential guide to rebuilding your body during the postpartum period. I learned so much about how to ensure I am meeting all of my new nutritional needs. I also had no idea how to advocate for my postpartum health and recovery during doctor’s visits. This book gave me a place to start in learning more about exactly what my body needed to recover. My biggest takeaway was the impact these deficiencies can have on postpartum mental health.
4. The Fourth Trimester by Kimberly Ann Johnson
Life postpartum comes with an enormous physical, emotional, and mental adjustment. The Fourth Trimester shares advice for navigating this overwhelming chapter. You’ll find tips for arranging your home, restorative practices, holistic approaches, and conflicting emotions. The many personal stories throughout the book are also terrific.
5. Nurture by Erica Chidi
Nurture was one of my favorite pregnancy books, but it also has a great section on the importance of postpartum recovery. The book covers specific postpartum topics including baby massage, breastfeeding, self-care tips, healthy eating, and what to expect. Some symptoms, like night sweats, I only found out were normal by reading this book. Even more importantly, the author encourages new moms to listen to their bodies, take care of themselves, and ask for help. I specifically loved the sections on mental health and grieving missed experiences as a new mom.
6. Touched Out by Amanda Montei
Touched Out by Amanda Montei is an excellent exploration of motherhood, consent, and caregiving. It’s heavier than the other recommended books and brings up many very real issues women and mothers are currently facing. But it’s an important look at the culture surrounding motherhood in America. If you’re feeling depleted, exhausted, and touched out as a new mom, this book may give you the solace you need.
7. Mamaste by Lori Bregman
Mamaste by Lori Bregman is all about finding balance in your new identity as a mama. I love that Bregman recognizes the many different parenting styles that match certain personality types. It’s an important reminder to be yourself as a new mom, rather than try to fit a certain mold. Especially, with the constant pressure social media places on moms. Mamaste is a super quick, fun read packed with quizzes, affirmations, yoga poses, and fun suggestions to connect with your new identity as a mom.
Would you add any postpartum books to this list? Share your recommendations in comments!
P.S. Five resources for your postpartum support team and how to make mom friends as a new mom.
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