The days and weeks after your baby is born are called the postpartum period.
After childbirth, your body will start to heal and go through many changes as it recovers. Some of these changes happen over several weeks. Rest whenever you can, ask for help from friends and family, and eat well.
How does postpartum affect your mood?
It’s common to feel a range of emotions at this time. Your focus may change. You may feel that you don’t have the time or energy for other things or people. You may also feel sad. Talk to your PCP or doula if you feel sad for more than a few weeks.
Doulas can help you:
- Get physical, emotional, and other support that is not medical
- Get health education
- Talk about your health care with your providers
How to Get a Doula
You can now get support from a doula (birth worker) at no cost. Doulas support people before, during, and after pregnancy. You can get doula care up to one year after the end of your pregnancy. Ask your PCP about doula care or find a doula at or sfhp.org. You can get this service at no cost if you are an SFHP Medi-Cal member.
Learn more about postpartum care at sfhp.org/wellness. Find more info on postpartum depression at mmhla.org/fact-sheets.
