We know we need to rest postpartum, but WHY?

You've no doubt heard: “Make sure you rest after birth.” But no one ever really talks about why we need to. Are we talking about lounging on the couch, cuddling with your new baby and people bringing you snacks all the time (yes, please) or something deeper? Spoiler alert: it’s both. Postpartum rest isn’t just about feeling less exhausted right now; it’s about protecting your body and setting yourself up for long-term health—because the future you deserves love too. Remember you are not only recovering from labour and birth itself, but the 9-10 months of pregnancy too!

The wisest women in the world say that the way you care for yourself in that first 40 days postpartum directly impacts your health for the next 40 years. You will find that many traditional cultures all around the world have long upheld the postpartum period as sacred. That’s because ancient wisdom often recognised the mother’s need for community support, nourishment, and rest. 

Let’s look at 3 main reasons why taking it easy after birth is non-negotiable.

1. Postpartum Rest = Menopausal Ease

Here’s the deal: your hormones are in freefall after birth, especially estrogen. This massive shift doesn’t just affect you now—it can have ripple effects into menopause. Skipping rest or pushing through recovery without care can lead to lasting issues that might reappear later—especially around menopause. Studies show that pelvic issues like organ prolapse or incontinence often resurface as hormones shift later in life. So giving your body time to truly heal in the postpartum isn’t just about now—it’s also a way to take care of future you.

2. Letting your uterus heal and strengthen

Let’s give your uterus a round of applause—it went from the size of a pear to holding your baby (and a whole ecosystem of placenta and fluid). That’s roughly 80grams to nearly 5kg! That’s a lot.

Now that your baby’s out in the world, your uterus needs time to shrink back to its original size and regain strength. And it’s not just your uterus, it’s also all of those ligaments holding it up -  They’ve been under pressure for months and softened by the hormone relaxin (which sticks around longer if you’re breastfeeding).

With a bit of TLC and giving yourself time to recover, you’re helping protect against strains and long-term issues! Your uterus will thank you!

3. There’s a Dinner Plate-Sized Wound Inside You

Yep, you read that right. When your placenta detaches, it leaves behind a wound the size of a dinner plate. And just like any major wound, it needs time, rest, and nourishment to heal.

That’s why postpartum bleeding (aka lochia) is a thing. Your body is busy repairing itself, but overdoing it—whether it’s lifting too much or skipping rest—can slow healing and even cause complications. Imagine if this wound was on the outside of your body—no one would think twice about you taking it easy. The same care applies here. Also an important note to add here  - Just when you think you are healed and ready for activities again there is one MAJOR sign to know if you are doing too much - you will start bleeding again! So think - if you’re still bleeding = you should be resting. 

How to Actually Make Rest Happen

Sure, we all know we’re supposed to rest, but life (and visitors) doesn’t always make it easy. Here’s some simple quick tips how to give yourself the best shot at proper recovery: (You can also check out our Postpartum Plan Cheat Sheet here for free.

1. Prep Meals Ahead
   Start doubling up recipes during pregnancy and freezing portions. Even a stash of five or six meals will feel like gold after birth. 
2. Set Boundaries
   Postpartum is your time to rest, heal, and bond with your baby. Say “yes” to help and “no” to anything that feels draining.
3. Build your Village
   Think about who can provide emotional, practical, community, and educational support. It could be family, friends, or even a postpartum doula.
4. Lean on Your Essentials and your resources
   Having the right postpartum products on hand—like  our Revival Kit full of things like; Ice Packs, Perineal Healing Spray and the oh-so-handy Peri Wash Bottle—means you’re ready for anything.

Rest Now, Thrive Later

Postpartum rest isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. It’s your body’s way of saying, “Thank you for carrying this baby. Now let me recover.” By taking the time to slow down, you’re not just nurturing yourself now—you’re paving the way for long-term strength and well-being.

So, take the nap. Ignore the dishes. Use the ice packs. You’ve done enough, mama. And the best part? Future you is going to thank you for it. ❤️