Are you ready for some candid, unfiltered insights about postpartum life?
Even though I haven’t given birth myself, I’ve gathered the honest, real experiences of new moms to share the lesser-discussed aspects of life after delivery.
Brace yourself, as we dive into the raw, and maybe even a little TMI. Isn’t that what true friendship is all about? 😉
1. That first bowel movement after giving birth…
This is one most moms aren’t expecting and that is… the first bowel movement after giving birth can be scary and painful.
Let’s face it, nobody wants to talk about bowel movements, but it’s important to prepare for it after giving birth.
Stool softeners can make the process easier by softening the stool and preventing constipation. It’s also important to drink plenty of fluids, such as water or prune juice, to keep your body hydrated and to help with bowel movements.
Personal tip from moms: “We’re friends here so there’s no such thing as TMI, right? Honestly, I was not expecting this one, especially after having a c-section. Do not skip the stool softeners, my friend. Colace was my best friend for a few days.”
2. Night sweats are real.
You might experience night sweats as your body gets rid of the excess fluid from pregnancy.
Your body has been holding onto extra fluid during pregnancy, and after giving birth, it needs to get rid of it. This can lead to sweating during the night, which can be uncomfortable and even wake you up.
One way to deal with night sweats is to wear lightweight pajamas and use breathable bedding. Also, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
Tip: Keep a fan nearby (bonus: it doubles as white noise if baby is co-sleeping). Some moms even keep an extra set of sheets by the bed for quick middle-of-the-night changes.
3. Postpartum bleeding is heavy.
You got to skip out on your period for 9 months and now it’s back with a vengeance!
Postpartum bleeding can be heavy and last for up to six weeks. Time to stock up on heavy-duty pads and avoid tampons.
Local support: If you’re unsure what’s normal, a postpartum doula or your midwife can be a great resource. Many doulas in [YOUR CITY] also offer text support for questions in those first weeks. Do not hesitate to reach out.
4. Your nipples may hurt (a lot).
Breastfeeding is natural, right? That’s what I was told, but I was never told how much it might hurt those first couple of days and how much nipple cream I’d blow through in 24 hours!
Your breasts might leak milk and be sore, even if you’re not breastfeeding. Nursing pads and nipple cream are lifesavers.
Personal tip from moms: “Lansinoh pads and Earth Mama nipple butter saved me in those first weeks.”
👉 If you’re wondering if it’s time to get professional help with breastfeeding and where to find local resources in [YOUR CITY], check out my post: [Insert blog title from Month 2].
5. Baby blues are normal, but watch for more.
Everyone says becoming a mom is the best feeling ever, right?
Not for everyone, and that’s ok!!
The first few days after giving birth can be an emotional rollercoaster. These feelings are often referred to as “baby blues” and are a normal part of the postpartum experience.
Important note: If these feelings persist or get worse, it could be postpartum depression. Please do not hesitate to reach out for help.
Local resources in Inland Empire:
- Redlands Community Hospital – Comprehensive Perinatal Services Program (CPSP)
- This clinic provides pregnancy-related support, including Medi-Cal assistance, childbirth and breastfeeding education, plus pre‑ and postpartum counseling services. Baby Babushka Midwifery+12Find Help+12Yelp+12Psychology Today+6Redlands Community Hospital+6Find Help+6
- San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health – Outpatient Mental Health Services (Redlands)
- Offers perinatal mental health counseling, individual/group therapy, case management, and psycho‑educational workshops tailored for the postpartum period. Located at 1030 Nevada St, Redlands, CA 92374, phone: (909) 792‑0747. MHN
- Lisa Kirkland, LMFT – Traumatic Birth & Postpartum Support Group (Redlands)
- A group hosted locally by a licensed therapist specializing in perinatal mental health. Provides a safe space for those processing difficult or traumatic birth experiences. Meetings currently marked as TBA—call (909) 245‑6613 for details. Riverside University Health System+15Psychology Today+15DoulaMatch+15
6. Perineum care is no joke.
If you had a tear or episiotomy during delivery, it’s important to take care of your perineum as it heals.
You can use ice packs, witch hazel pads, or sitz baths to reduce swelling and pain. Padsicles (DIY frozen pads with witch hazel, aloe, and lavender) are a game-changer.
Extra tip: A donut pillow can make sitting so much easier. And a peri bottle? Do not even think about skipping it. It will be your best friend.
And please remember: if I hear one more person on social media say “bounce back after birth,” I might lose it. It’s okay if healing takes months or even years. That is normal.
7. Postpartum hair loss will freak you out.
You might think you’re going bald with all the hair loss.
Moms often share that they lose clumps of hair those first few months postpartum. It’s shocking, but it’s also normal.
This happens because during pregnancy, your hormones kept your hair from shedding. After birth, your body resets, and suddenly all that extra hair falls out.
Tips: Use a gentle brush, avoid tight ponytails, and keep up with your nutrition. In Redlands, some hair salons even specialize in postpartum hair treatments. It is worth checking out if you want a little self-care.
8. It’s okay to ask for help.
Listen, it’s totally okay to feel overwhelmed after bringing a new human into the world.
Seriously, nobody expects you to be Supermom.
Your friends, family, and healthcare providers are there for you, waiting to lend a hand or a listening ear. Whether you need someone to hold the baby while you shower or just company during a late-night feed, please reach out.
Words of encouragement from moms: “I thought I had to do everything myself. When I finally asked my sister to come over, I realized how much lighter I felt. Please do not wait as long as I did to ask for help.”
Final Thoughts
Now you’re in the know about some of the less glamorous but oh-so-real parts of postpartum life.
Remember, you’re not alone in this, and it’s totally ok to lean on others when you need to.
Preparing for Baby?
If you’re reading this while pregnant, check out some of my Inland Empire Newborn Photography Sessions as you prepare for the arrival of your new baby!
