The idea of one more visitor can cause anxiety - you don't want to feel like you have to host yet one more person, your home may be a mess, and you are exhausted. We get it.
The first six to eight weeks after giving birth, often referred to as the early postpartum period, is a critical time for mamas and their newborns. During this time, new mamas undergo multiple and sometimes very challenging physical and emotional changes, and they often could really benefit from specialized care to support their transition into motherhood. One valuable resource for postpartum care during these crucial weeks is occupational therapy, and specifically occupational therapy in the home.
Even so, in the overwhelming first several weeks after giving birth, the idea of yet one more visitor can cause anxiety - you don't want to feel like you have to host yet one more person, your home may be a mess, and you are exhausted. We get it. We were there too, and we didn't want to have yet one more guest, the house was a complete disaster, and we were so tired we couldn't see straight. And that's precisely why Medusa Maternal exists - because those initial six to eight weeks are such a whirlwind of emotions, new tasks, sleep deprivation, and wanting to cherish your new baby. We yearned for support that truly GOT us, that comprehended or even anticipated our needs, and how to assist us in learning how to get them met in a way that felt empowering and flexible, sustainable and yet also forgiving.
Maybe the idea of us in your home 1-2 hours a week still feels like a lot. But what if we could be that one more person in your home each week for 6-8 weeks, so that YOU could feel like you have so many areas of life are not only more manageable, but more joyful and even liberating.
1. Personalized Care
Occupational therapists can provide personalized care plans tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of each new mama. This level of individualized attention ensures that the therapy addresses not only the physical but also the equally important emotional and psychological aspects of postpartum recovery.
2. Convenience and Comfort
Home-based occupational therapy eliminates the need for new mamas to travel to a clinic or hospital, which can be challenging during the early weeks of postpartum recovery. Being in the comfort of one's home reduces stress and allows mamas to focus on their well-being and bonding with their newborns. When mama's nervous system is regulated, baby's regulation (and that of other children in the home) can also benefit.
3. Holistic Approach
Occupational therapists take a holistic approach to postpartum care. They assess various aspects of a new mama's life, including her home environment, daily routines, and emotional well-being. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that all relevant factors contributing to postpartum recovery are addressed.
4. Addressing Physical Challenges
The physical changes that occur during pregnancy and childbirth can be demanding. Occupational therapists are trained to address these physical challenges by providing guidance on exercises, posture, and ergonomics. They can also recommend adaptive equipment or modifications to the home environment to enhance comfort and mobility.
5. Emotional Support
The postpartum period is often accompanied by a range of emotions, including anxiety, stress, and postpartum depression. Occupational therapists offer emotional support and coping strategies to help new mamas navigate these feelings and maintain their mental wellbeing.
6. Breastfeeding Support
Occupational therapists can provide valuable guidance and techniques to assist with breastfeeding, which can be a challenging aspect of postpartum care for many new mamas. They can address issues such as proper positioning, latch difficulties, and pain management.
7. Infant Care Education
In addition to caring for the mother, occupational therapists can provide education on infant care and bonding techniques. This helps new mamas build confidence in their parenting skills and fosters a positive mother-infant relationship.
8. Time Efficiency
You are tired. You don't have a lot of free time to be out of the home. Maybe you have other young children who also need your care. Home-based occupational therapy is often more time-efficient than clinic-based therapy. New mamas can schedule sessions that fit into their daily routines, allowing them to optimize their time while receiving essential care. In fact, when we can see you in your home context (mess and all!), we can best understand what how to support you in achieving your wellbeing goals.
9. Continuity of Care
Consistent care during the first 0-8 weeks is crucial for postpartum recovery. Home-based occupational therapy ensures continuity of care, as therapists can follow up with mothers regularly and adjust their treatment plans as needed.
10. Family Involvement
Occupational therapy in the home encourages family involvement, fostering a supportive environment for the new mama and her baby. Partners and other family members can participate in therapy sessions and gain knowledge to better assist the mama during her recovery. This can be especially beneficial for supporting cohesive co-parenting as well as romantic partnership and connection.
Call us. Text us. Reach out. We would really love to support you.
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