Helping Partners
Written by Ali Sugarman, Birth and Postpartum Doula, Family Chef and Sanctuary Operations Team Member
Partners, this blog is for you! First of all, we see you. We see that having a new baby can be challenging- you probably feel the pressure to provide for your family in every way possible; financially and emotionally being the big ones. It can be so hard with lack of sleep, lack of connection with your loved one, and your baby probably is very attached to mom or the primary caregiver right now. It can be confusing and hard to know if you’re doing enough or even HOW to support newborn life. Here are a few ideas for you!
Change the diapers: We know that both parties are probably losing sleep with a newborn- while one partner feeds the babe, which is a full time job in and of itself, the other can be in charge of diaper changes.
Meal prep: Food is one of the most important things in the postpartum period. Making sure you and your partner are well nourished is one of the easiest ways to keep energy levels up and it’s great for gut/brain health as well! Setting aside one day a week to do meal prep can be extremely helpful.
Offer to take baby for a walk so your partner can rest/shower: This is a wonderful way to get some time outside, all while moving your body and bonding with your baby. If babe has some trouble settling, try using a carrier instead of a stroller. Hearing your heartbeat can be soothing to them, and they will begin to recognize that you are a safe support system.
Take time to communicate with your partner: Check in with them to see how they are feeling in this new season of life, and communicate how you are feeling as well. Communication takes practice, and the more you make dedicated time to do this, the easier it will become when things seem stressful or chaotic.
We know it takes a lot to run a household, provide for your family, AND be a present partner for your child. You are doing a great job! Both partners are probably dedicating 110% to maintaining sanity, and it’s exhausting. Make sure to take time for yourself- nourish yourself with good food, move your body, and spend time doing things you love. It may not feel or look like life pre-baby, but things will smooth out and you’ll find your flow.
