Before the baby comes:

• Arrange for help for yourself and your family after the birth.
• Arrange for meals to be brought in or prepared by other family members or friends.
• Have meals planned and the pantry/freezer stocked in anticipation so no one has to plan meals and do shopping for a couple weeks. (And get paper plates so no one will have to do dishes either!!)
• Arrange for help with household chores for the first 2 weeks after the birth.
• Ask your friends and extended family to wait for a week or two before they come to visit. (Unless they are willing to bring dinner or help with household chores!)

While you are in the hospital:

• Sleep whenever the baby sleeps.
• Keep your pain level under control.
• Ask your partner or a staff member to limit visitors.
• Turn off the phone ringer.

At home after the baby’s birth:

• Limit visitors. Set “visiting hours.”
• Sleep whenever the baby sleeps.
• It is a good idea to stay in your night clothes—you will lie down more often, and when visitors come over, they won’t stay as long, and will be more likely to offer to help!
• Put a “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door (front or bedroom) when you are resting.
• Ask your partner to keep visitors from disturbing you if you are resting or feeding the baby.
• Keep your baby in bed with you, or in a bassinet/cradle close beside you. (See bed sharing safety checklist.)
• Turn off the phone ringer and let the message machine answer instead. Return phone calls when it is convenient for you.
• Let others take care of meal preparation and housework.
• Encourage family members to hold and care for the baby in between feedings.
• Remember that you will recover and feel “normal” again soon!!