Maternity week is a special, but also intensive period. Your body is recovering from childbirth, your baby has to get used to the world and there is a lot on your mind. During these days, rest is not a luxury, but rather a necessity. Yet many mothers find it difficult to really rest. In this blog you will read why rest in the maternity week is so important and how you can ensure it.

Why is rest so important?

Recover your body and prevent complications
Whether you've had a vaginal birth or a cesarean, your body needs time to recover. Your uterus shrinks, your hormones change, and you may have stitches that need to heal. Taking adequate rest will help your body recover better and faster. Also, doing too much again too soon can lead to complications such as post-bleeding, elevated blood pressure and infections. Especially with a cesarean section, adequate rest is important to promote scar repair and prevent overexertion.

Breastfeeding and rest go hand in hand
Rest and relaxation help with breastfeeding production. Stress and fatigue can actually have a negative impact on milk production. By lying down regularly and relaxing properly, you give your body a chance to produce enough milk.

Mental well-being
The maternity period can be emotionally demanding. For example, you may feel somewhat insecure and tired, and sometimes become a bit emotional. By taking rest and incorporating moments of relaxation, you reduce the risk of overstimulation and mood swings.

So how do you ensure adequate rest?

Accept help
Let the maternity nurse, your partner and any family members help you with household chores and caring for your baby. You don't have to do everything yourself!

Keep visits limited
It is tempting to receive many maternity visits, but this can also be quite exhausting. Plan visits deliberately and have the courage to say no if it becomes too much.

Rest when baby sleeps
"Sleep when baby sleeps" sounds cliché, but it really helps. Even a short rest can work wonders. We recommend this tip to both parents, of course; these are tough days for partners, too.

Stay in bed or on the couch
For the first few days, it's best to lie down as much as possible. This helps your body recover and prevents you from overexerting yourself too quickly.

Listen to your body
Do you feel dizzy, extremely tired or in pain? These are signs that you are doing too much. Listen to your body and take extra rest when necessary.