Your support

changes everything.

And, feel free to visit our page for the Mama's to better understand what they're navigating.

Our best tip: Enthusiastically take on the roles of Chief Diaper, Transportation, & Swaddle Officer.

It is painful for her to bend over and lift the baby during those first 2-3 weeks. Simply healing and recovering will take every ounce of her energy (especially if breastfeeding/pumping), so taking diapers off her mental radar is a HUGE HELP.

If breastfeeding, get up and bring the baby to her and put the baby back afterward -- that simple task feels like an insurmountable mountain to her right now, but it is relatively easy for you. Enjoy feeling like a superhero -- we know she is yours right now ;)

While you are in the hospital, ask the nurses for their tips on diapering, burping, and swaddling, (they love showing their skills!) and practice a lot while you are there. You can teach your partner your pro-tips once she is more mobile.

HELPFUL INFORMATION

FOR PARTNERS:

Partner

During pregnancy or

first year post-partum...

10% of dads experience post-partum depression

18% develop a clinically significant anxiety* disorder

(Source: Postpartum International)

*Including generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder

While we have you...

how are you doing?

Are you struggling with what you witnessed?
- It can be a stressful situation and hard to see your partner go through pain. So it's good to be aware that partners can get PTSD too.

Help is available for dads & partners, and there are communities and "chats for dads" events that meet monthly online as a very approachable format.

HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR

FRIENDS & FAMILY:

What NOT to say to a mom who has had a c-section
- (Pro-tip, it's easiest just to listen, no need to say something to make her feel better. Just listen.)

If you've been through it, let her know.
- She may feel more comfortable sharing things that are on her mind.
- Give her space to share HER experience with someone who understands.

Check in on the partner. They may feel a little (extremely) shellshocked from seeing their loved one go through the surgery, being thrust into the main care-giving role for both the baby and their partner, and not used to asking for help.
- Please be aware that post-partum depression and clinical anxiety also happen to Dads, and it isn't something that someone should just "tough it out".
- If you think someone is struggling, check out the resources we referenced above in the Partner section and encourage them to see a medical professional.

Friends and family