As both a healthcare provider and a mother, I’ve always been struck by how little attention the postpartum phase receives. While there’s ample support for women during pregnancy, the transition to motherhood often lacks the ongoing care and attention it deserves. Following the birth of their baby, mothers are typically left with just a single six-week checkup, despite facing significant hormonal fluctuations and physical exhaustion as they navigate caring for their newborn. This lack of sustained support during this time has never sat well with me.

The postpartum period poses undeniable challenges, both physically, mentally, and emotionally for many women. What if there was a different way to approach this critical time? Picture a world where new mothers receive personalized care plans tailored to their individual needs, encompassing everything from nutrient assessments to mental health resources. By looking at postpartum care through a functional medicine lens we can help new mothers thrive during this often challenging time.

Here’s my recommended approach to postpartum care from a functional medicine perspective:

1. Baseline Nutrient Panel: At six weeks postpartum, conduct a general nutrient panel including Iron levels, Vitamin D, B12/Folate, and Magnesium.  
2. Thyroid Evaluation: Perform a general thyroid evaluation at six weeks postpartum.
3. Microbiome Support: Discuss plans to support healthy microbiome rebalancing, particularly if the woman received antibiotics during pregnancy or childbirth.
4. Hormone Rebalancing: Explore safe methods to support hormone rebalancing and consider hormone testing as needed.
5. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Refer to a pelvic floor physical therapist to develop a comprehensive recovery plan.
6. Postpartum Nutrition Plan: Create a postpartum nutrition plan that includes adequate nutrients, healthy fats, and protein to support healing, rebuilding, and breast milk production if the woman is breastfeeding.
7. Mental Health Resources: Review available mental health resources and provide referrals as needed.
8. Physical Activity Guidance: Provide guidance on safe physical activity and exercises that can help new mothers regain strength and energy. This can include gentle exercises and gradually progressing to more intensive workouts as appropriate.
9. Sleep and Rest Support: Offer strategies to improve sleep quality and ensure adequate rest, recognizing the challenges new mothers face with disrupted sleep patterns.
10. Emotional and Social Support: Encourage new mothers to build a support network, including family, friends, and support groups. Highlight the importance of seeking emotional support during this time.
11. Lactation Support: Provide access to lactation consultants who can assist with breastfeeding challenges and ensure the mother and baby are thriving.
12. Partner Involvement: Discuss the role of partners in supporting postpartum recovery and encourage their involvement in the care process.
13. Individualized Care Plans and Monthly Check-ins: Tailor care plans to the specific needs of each woman, recognizing that every postpartum experience is unique. Ideally, I recommend women have a provider they meet with once monthly for at least 6 months postpartum to check in and address any issues that have emerged.

Addressing postpartum care from a functional medicine framework can provide a more holistic and comprehensive approach, ensuring that new mothers receive the support they need in various aspects of their health and well-being. If you have recently had a baby and are seeking more support, I highly recommend working with a local Functional Medicine or Naturopathic Doctor in your area. Use this link to find a Functional Medicine Practitioner in your area.

To best serve new mamas, at Lumina Holistic Health, we offer fully virtual care so that you can receive the support and care you need without having to leave the comfort of your own home. If you are interested in learning more about the care we offer, use this link to book a complimentary discovery call.