Ideas for postpartum:

Not everyone will struggle with the postpartum blues, but everyone should prepare for it. Most of the time depression sets in within 4 weeks of delivery, if it is going to be an issue at all. The symptoms are similar to major depression episodes: agitation, irritability, decreased appetite, difficulty concentrating, feeling withdrawn, isolated or guilty, low energy, lack of pleasure in joyous activities, lethargy, trouble sleeping and negative feelings toward the baby. Do not worry, this is all normal. If this condition sets in, you must remember that you are a wonderful mother. But, rather than wait to treat this after the fact when it is more difficult, every new mother should prepare ahead of time for the postpartum weeks.

• Meditation
• Therapy
• Breastfeeding
• Daily exercise
• Sleep when the baby sleeps
• Eat a balanced, nutritious diet and drink water
• Herbal remedies: St John’s Wort (Hypericum), Motherwort (Leonorus), Passionflower (Passiflora), Lemon Balm (Melissa), Hops (Humulus), Ginseng, Skullcap (Scutellaria)
• B vitamins and bee pollen can help with energy

BUT, the absolute best approach I have seen to postpartum blues and fatigue is placental encapsulation. Believe it or not, your placenta can be consumed and doing just that may be the most beneficial thing you do for yourself postpartum. The best way to preserve your placenta as a medicine for future use is to dry it, grind it into a powder and to encapsulate it. Luckily, companies around Portland offer this service so you don’t have to do the dirty work yourself.

Using your placenta as medicine has many health benefits. Originally an ancient Chinese medicine technique, this remedy can help rebuild your blood, balance your hormones and replenish your energy. The mothers I have worked with have all reported positive experiences with this treatment. I highly recommend you consider adding this to your birth plan. Consult our resource directory for a list of local companies who will guide you on this path.