The First 40 Days

The postpartum period, also known as the fourth trimester or first 40 days, is marked by significant shifts of the body, of the mind and of the self. It is a critically important, transitional time that should focus exclusively on the healing and rejuvenation of the mother and her bonding with her new baby. Research continually tells us that this first 40 days after birth has lifelong health impacts if neglected. The mother’s well-being directly affects the health of her children, her family and her community. A strong postpartum support network, including family, friends and healthcare professionals is key to the overall health and well-being of a mother and her baby and family.

Many cultures throughout the world have ancient traditions and  postpartum customs that are deeply rooted in caring for new mothers. These traditions include ceremonies, nourishing diets, isolation, rest, daily massages, herbal baths, and other practices that aid in care and recovery. And while specific to the cultural context in which they come, all share deep common roots all pointing to the importance of the 5 universal guiding principles of postpartum- extended rest, nourishing food, loving touch, companionship (the village) and time in nature.

The Western culture is not designed to honor this time immediately after birth. It focuses most all of its attention on childbirth and so little on the crucial time after birth. Birthing people are not educated on how to care for themselves or even their babies. We have lost our “village” and such care is deemed taboo and a luxury, while “bouncing back” physically and emotionally and returning to work and their regular lifestyles within a couple of weeks is a sign of strength and independence. It’s in this solitary environment that lacks nurture, sisterhood and tender care where postnatal depletion, depression and anxiety manifests.

Typically, a birthing person is discharged from the hospital within 24 to 48 hours after a vaginal birth, or 2 to 4 days after a cesarean section. With limited knowledge and tools, they must take measures to create their own sanctuaries of relaxation and restoration and be responsible for their own healing, while simultaneously learning to care for their new baby. Most birthing people suffer in silence and don’t get the resources and care that they need.

To improve the experience of new mothers and birthing people, we need to reclaim our village, leaning on each other for friendship, care, nourishment and some reprieve from the demands of motherhood.