As a mother and the founder of UQ Glam Luxe Gifts, I understand the importance of having a supportive tribe during the postpartum period. I went through a Pospartum journey during a time when there was limited to no human interaction across the globe. It became difficult to find outlets outside of my home. It can be an overwhelming time for new and expectant mothers, and having a support system in place can make all the difference. I love sharing information with new and expectant moms that helped me through pregnancy and postpartum, especially to the outer circle of support. Here are ways in which friends and family can support new moms during their postpartum recovery.

• Offer to help with household chores: New mothers are often exhausted, and having to keep up with household chores can be overwhelming. Offer to help with laundry, cooking, or cleaning. Even small gestures like washing dishes or folding laundry can make a big difference.

• Bring meals or snacks: Providing healthy meals and snacks for new moms is essential for their recovery. Prepare some freezer-friendly meals that can be easily reheated. You can also bring over some healthy snacks like fresh fruit or energy bites to keep mom fueled throughout the day.

• Offer to babysit: Taking care of a newborn is a full-time job, and sometimes new moms just need a break. Offer to babysit for a few hours so she can take a nap or get some self-care time.

• Provide emotional support: The postpartum period can be emotionally challenging for new moms. It’s important to provide emotional support by checking in, offering words of encouragement, and simply being a listening ear.

• Send thoughtful gifts: Send a care package or thoughtful gift to let the new mom know that she’s on your mind. At UQ Glam Luxe Gifts, we offer a variety of gift boxes perfect for new and expectant mothers.

• Attend doctor appointments: Offer to attend doctor appointments with the new mom to provide support and take notes. It can be helpful to have an extra set of ears to remember important information. If this is too personal, then ask if there’s any way you can help. Offer a ride, offer lunch afterwards, offer to watch the other kids. The thoughtfulness alone will be appreciated.

• Help with older siblings: If the new mom has other children, offer to help with drop-offs, pickups, or even taking them out for a fun activity to give mom a break.

As mothers we have to come together, building a community of support, of references, of helping hands. Be a true tribe. Supporting new and expectant mothers during the postpartum period is crucial. It’s such a delicate, sensitive, fragile time filled with so many mental and physical changes. As a tribe, we can help new moms adjust to motherhood and promote a healthy recovery. Let’s show new moms that they are not alone and that we are here to support them every step of the way.