MemorialCare - Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care

PREPARING FOR PARENTHOOD Talk it out. Talk openly about your feelings with your partner or friends.

SPOUSES and PARTNERS

Build healthy habits. Eat healthy foods, exercise, and get plenty of sleep.

Ask for help. Talk with a health professional with specific experience.

Take your time. Ask your employer about available paternity leave.

Adding a new baby to the family affects your sleep, sexual intimacy, time, finances, and so much more. The early postpartum period is also a time of significant transition for spouses and partners as they learn to adapt to the challenges of new parenthood, including: • Caring for and bonding with the new baby • Redefining their relationship with their partner • Adjusting to the new “parent” role in society PROVIDING SUPPORT If your spouse/partner experiences emotional distress or develops a mental health disorder after you gave birth, they will need your support and encouragement. If you believe this person may benefit from additional mental health support after childbirth, contact their health care provider or consider taking them to the closest emergency room if the symptoms are severe.

Note to Spouses and Partners Everyone experiences stress and emotional highs and lows differently. For a better understanding of the specific mental health challenges faced by people who have recently given birth, you are invited to review the information beginning on page 17.

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Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care