An important note

Although it’s useful to know tools you can use to care for yourself, it’s important to not try to handle everything by yourself.

A lot of parents struggle during pregnancy and postpartum. You are not alone.

If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or others, please call your medical care provider or your local emergency number. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline will answer your call at 1-800-273-8255.

Postpartum Support International offers connection to help for those struggling with their mental health. Please call their 24/7 support helpline at 1-800-944-4773 (4PPD) or text 503-894-9453. Check out their other support services at: http://www.postpartum.net/get-help/help-for-moms/

If you are having pain, please contact your medical care provider. Don’t brush it off or push through. You can still be a strong person, and also seek help.

Problems postpartum with pelvic pain, painful intercourse, and incontinence are very common, but they are not something to just put up with. Consult your care provider for referral to a pelvic floor/ women’s health physical therapist, or locate a PT near you at: https://www.womenshealthapta.org/patients/

If your stress comes from caring from a colicky or high-needs baby, The Fussy Baby Network offers a helpline where an infant specialist will answer your call at: (888) 431-2229. Please check out their support services, which include in-home visits in the Chicagoland area, at: https://www.erikson.edu/fussy-baby-network/