View the labor and birth as a passage into a new role rather than as an ordeal. The first few weeks after the birth need to be cherished. This baby will never be new again so take time to cherish him/her. Times of transition require special attention so people can move confidently into their new roles. As a woman realizes she needs help, she should be viewed as wise, not weak. The new mother needs to be nurtured so she can mother well. Her reality needs to be honored and her intuition respected. She needs a supportive network of people to cradle her.

Physical care and support is essential. You'll need thesefor many weeks following birth. As more research is completed, the concept of the "postpartum" period is expanding to include the first year following the birth. The woman who does too much too soon is more at risk for infection, excessive bleeding and depression.

Prepare for ongoing changes of parenthood. Avoid putting time limits on yourself. Each woman heals (emotionally and physically) and deals with the new role of motherhood at her own rate. You may feel "tied down". Things that used to be so easy, like running out to do an errand or shopping for groceries may become amazingly complex. In time you will again regain your energy level and feeling of competence, you will have a desire to make love and once again feel like a member of society.

And always remember: FATIGUE makes everything worse!

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