Content created in partnership with Clinicians
The days, weeks and months after giving birth are a time that imprints on all mothers differently. Some experience what’s often referred to as the newborn love bubble, while others remember nothing but the sleepless nights and milk-stained maternity bras.
The post-pregnancy period is characterised by the challenging yet beautiful process of recovery and adjustment, where new mothers must manage both the physical discomforts of childbirth and the demands of caring for a newborn.
Sleep deprivation, new routines, and the emotional weight of nurturing a tiny human can significantly impact mood, energy levels, and overall wellbeing. During this time, the body’s nutritional needs remain high, especially for those who are breastfeeding, as mothers must nourish both themselves and their baby.
While many supplements on the market cater to general postpartum needs or aim to support breast milk production, they often overlook the importance of supporting mental and emotional health during this time of transition, both immediately post-birth and the months beyond.
Whether you’re a brand new mother or further into your parenting journey, supporting your mood, sleep and energy levels is essential. Here, Clinicians naturopath Jane Cronin answers often-asked questions around post-pregnancy and offers a holistic approach to wellness during this transformative period.
What does the term postpartum refer to?
The term "postpartum" generally refers to the first six weeks after a baby is born. However, when looking at support for mood, energy and sleep we know this extends well beyond the immediate postpartum period. During this time, mothers undergo significant physical, emotional, and hormonal changes while adapting to their new role. Often, a mother’s wellbeing is overshadowed by the demands of caring for a newborn, yet this period is crucial for both her and her baby's health. Proper care ensures a smoother transition into motherhood and sets the foundation for a healthy family dynamic.
What are some of the changes that our bodies go through at this time?
After childbirth, a mother's body needs time to heal, whether from a vaginal delivery or a C-section. Without proper care, complications like infections or delayed healing can occur. Breastfeeding mothers may experience sore nipples or mastitis, making self-care essential. Good nutrition supports milk production, ensuring both mother and baby get the necessary nutrients. Hormonal changes, including a drop in progesterone, can trigger mood swings, often known as the "baby blues." Energy levels may also drop due to sleep deprivation and nutritional deficiencies, such as low B vitamins and iron.
Are there tweaks we can make to our lives that may help us find this period easier?
Small, manageable changes can make the postpartum period more positive. Focus on simple daily goals, like taking a shower or going for a short walk. Getting outside boosts vitamin D levels, improving mood and health. Natural light exposure helps regulate sleep, which is crucial when nighttime feedings disrupt rest. Gentle exercise, like walking or postpartum yoga, can improve mood and energy, but it's important to initially prioritise healing. Building a support network with other parents or friends and asking for help can reduce stress and prevent burnout.
What are some supportive ingredients and nutrition tips?
During pregnancy, women focus on nutrition to support their baby, but similar care is needed postpartum, especially when breastfeeding. Even those not breastfeeding need nutrients for recovery, energy and emotional health. Clinicians Post Pregnancy Mood & Sleep is designed to support new and not-so-new mums with key nutrients and mood and sleep supporting herbs such as chamomile and lavender.
New research shows lavender is a herb that can support low mood and traditionally it has been used for calming the nervous system and soothing the stomach. Chamomile has long been used by many cultures to support a nervous stomach and bloating, and has also been shown to soothe teething babies and trapped gas, which is a common gripe among newborns. The latest research on postpartum women shows it supports emotional calm, positive mood and sleep quality.
Clinicians Post Pregnancy Mood & Sleep also contains magnesium, an important nutrient supporting healthy sleep patterns. This is a key for the postpartum period as sufficient magnesium levels support normal mood.
Proper nutrition remains vital post-pregnancy; increasing omega-3 intake supports mood and brain function for both mother and baby, so up your intake of good fats such as fish, nuts, seeds and avocado. Additional support from a supplement such as Clinicians Vegan Omega 3 Algae may also be beneficial. Remember, hydration is essential too.
Click here to submit a question and enter the draw to be in to win a Free Consultation with Clinicians Naturopath Jane Cronin and 6 months' worth of recommended Clinicians supplements.
Visit clinicians.co.nz to find out more about their research based range of sleep products, or book a free consultation with one of their naturopaths.
Always read the label. Use as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional. Dietary supplements are not a replacement for a balanced diet. Douglas Pharmaceuticals, Auckland. TAPS MR10918.
