When we talk about motherhood, we often picture adorable baby clothes, heart-melting first smiles, and everyone checking in on the baby. But let’s pause—who’s checking in on the mother?
Because here’s the truth: maternal health matters just as much. Behind those baby milestones is a woman who’s healing, adjusting, and quietly carrying a lot.
On this National Safe Motherhood Day, let’s shift the focus and have an honest, empowering conversation about something so many new mothers experience—yet rarely speak about out loud: postpartum depletion.
What Is Postpartum Depletion
It’s more than just “feeling tired.”
Postpartum depletion is the physical and emotional drain many moms experience after childbirth. It shows up as:
Exhaustion that doesn’t go away with sleep
Brain fog and memory lapses
Mood swings or emotional overwhelm
Physical symptoms like body aches or hair thinning
It can be caused by a mix of hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and the sheer energy it takes to care for a newborn while your own body is still recovering.
The problem? Many moms accept it as “normal” and suffer in silence. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Why Addressing Postpartum Depletion Matters ?
Experts agree—postpartum depletion is not just a phase, and it shouldn’t be brushed off.
According to Dr. Jyoti Kapoor, psychiatrist and wellness expert,
“Postpartum fatigue can make it difficult for mothers to perform daily activities or care for their newborns effectively. Hormonal shifts after childbirth can leave women feeling drained both physically and emotionally.”
Recognizing the signs early and offering proper support can make a world of difference—for the mother, and for her family.
How to Rebuild
Here’s what actually helps, according to experts (and real moms):
1. Refuel Your Body, Kindly
Post-birth recovery needs nutrients, not just calories. Replenish with:
Iron-rich foods (spinach, lentils, meats)
Omega-3s (walnuts, flaxseed, fish)
Whole grains, veggies, fruits, and plenty of water
2. Smart Supplements
After consulting your doctor, consider:
Vitamin D and B-complex
Iron or calcium, if blood loss was high
Omega-3s for brain + mood support
3. Sleep in Sips
No, we won’t say “sleep when the baby sleeps”—but even a 20-minute rest or a proper wind-down at night can help your body recover.
4. Gentle Movement
Even light stretching, postnatal yoga, or walking around the block can boost circulation and lighten your mood.
Finding the ‘You’ in the Everyday
You’re not just a mother—you’re still “you”.
And sometimes, the most healing thing you can do is something that brings you joy.
So go ahead:
Play your favorite playlist while folding baby clothes
Watch a reel, movie, series that makes you laugh
Paint your nails, water your plants, or journal your thoughts
Call a friend—not for advice, just for connection
These small joys aren’t “extras.” They’re your fuel. Your daily dose of “you”. And that’s just as important as vitamins.
Postpartum depletion doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human. Healing takes time, care, and support. Let’s normalize that.
On this National Safe Motherhood Day, let’s promise this:
To check in on the mother, not just the baby
To offer help before she asks
And to remind every new mom that her well-being matters—deeply, truly, and completely
Here’s to healthier beginnings, and to a future where every mother feels seen, heard, and supported.
