Building Your Support Network

The Essential Professional Support Network Every New Mum Needs in the Early Postpartum Period

The early postpartum period can be both exhilarating and challenging for new parents as they navigate the joys and demands of caring for their newborns. Having a strong network of clinical and holistic support is essential during this transformative time, providing guidance, reassurance, and expert care to help new mums thrive. Let's explore the essential elements of clinical support that every new mom should have in her corner during the early postpartum period.

Maternal and Infant Health General Practitioner (GP):
A maternal and infant health GP specialises in providing comprehensive care for new mothers and their babies. These healthcare professionals offer a range of services, including postpartum check-ups, vaccinations, developmental assessments, and ongoing support for maternal and infant health. You can see Ilumina’s recommended maternal and infant health GP’s here.

Lactation Consultant (IBCLC):
Breastfeeding is a skill that requires support and guidance, especially in the early postpartum period. An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can offer expert advice on breastfeeding techniques, latch issues, milk supply concerns, and managing common breastfeeding challenges such as engorgement or mastitis. At Ilumina, our clinicians are IBCLC’s or working towards this accreditation. You can also see our recommended IBCLC’s here.

Women's Health Physiotherapist:
A women's health physiotherapist specialises in addressing musculoskeletal issues and pelvic floor dysfunction that may arise during the postpartum period. From assisting with postpartum recovery exercises to providing guidance on pelvic floor rehabilitation and core strengthening, a women's health physiotherapist can help new moms regain strength, mobility, and comfort after childbirth.

Emotional Support:
Having access to emotional and psychological counselling support is crucial for addressing any concerns you may have regarding low mood or feelings of anxiousness in the postpartum period. A counsellor or psychologist specialising in perinatal mental health can provide therapy, support, and coping strategies to help new moms navigate the emotional challenges of motherhood. See our recommendations here.

Postpartum Doula:
A postpartum doula offers practical and emotional support to new mums and their families during the early postpartum period. From assisting with newborn care and household tasks to providing breastfeeding support and emotional encouragement, a postpartum doula can help ease the transition into parenthood. Their presence can provide much-needed reassurance and relief for new moms as they adjust to life with a newborn. We have curated a network of postpartum doulas, see here.

Building a robust network of clinical support is essential for every new mum as she navigates the early postpartum period. From lactation consultants to maternal and infant health GPs, women's health physiotherapists, emotional counsellors, and postpartum doulas, having access to expert care and guidance ensures that new mums receive the support they need to thrive.