SO, WHAT DOES POSTPARTUM MEAN?

Even though the word “postpartum” is often associated with postpartum depression, postpartum simply means “after birth”. This also includes the time following a miscarriage, stillbirth, or other birth loss/release. People who have had an abortion have a postpartum phase too (even though our culture does not acknowledge this at all). The root word “Partum” comes from partus which means "a bearing, a bringing forth." During the postpartum window the birther is bringing forth a new version of of themselves. We can also look at it this way: once a person gives birth or experiences a birth release or loss they are ALWAYS POSTPARTUM. I am not saying they are always experiencing postpartum depression-they are always “after birth.” It is a BEFORE AND AFTER moment in time. A HUGE passage. One that deserves recognition, honor, and loving tenderness.

The immediate postpartum phase often refers the first six weeks & in many traditions it is typically a window from the first 20-40 days (and sometimes longer!). This is the optimal window for healing the body, and also when the need for rest, emotional support, and fortifying foods is at its utmost importance. Traditional Chinese Medicine emphasizes the importance of receiving this care even more when a person is experiencing a birth loss vs. a full term birth. Whether a person is bringing a child to full term or not, anyone that has become pregnant deserves a postpartum window of receiving nurturing and compassionate support!
The World Health Organization describes the postnatal period as the most critical and yet the most neglected phase in the lives of birthers and babies. This is a tragedy and it is a symptom of a lack of cultural awareness and understanding that having SOCIAL SUPPORT during this sensitive time is the no 1way to prevent perinatal mood disorders. #drswetabajaj #breastfeeding #ammadudu #notoformula #firstfortydays #newmommy #postpartumcare