8 Professionals Every New Mom Should Have on Speed Dial for Postpartum Support
Becoming a mom is a life-changing journey filled with beautiful moments and unexpected challenges. While your OB is an essential part of your pregnancy and delivery experience, the postpartum period often requires a broader village of support. These professionals can make a world of difference in your recovery, confidence, and overall well-being as you navigate life with a new baby.
Here are eight providers you should consider having on your postpartum team that I recommend contacting BEFORE you deliver your baby (but if you are reading this as a new mom, don’t worry, it’s not too late!)
1. Mental Health Providers
Postpartum emotions can be overwhelming and unpredictable: Is this normal? Or could it be postpartum anxiety or depression?
A therapist or psychiatric provider specializing in postpartum mental health can help you make sense of your feelings, provide coping strategies, and prescribe medication if needed. They support you in finding balance, regaining confidence, setting boundaries, communicating your needs to your partner, and feeling like yourself again. Seeking help early can prevent small struggles from becoming more significant obstacles.
2. Acupuncturist
Your body’s been through so much—and it’s asking for restoration.
Acupuncture is an excellent resource for calming your nervous system, balancing hormones, and easing physical postpartum symptoms like back pain or poor sleep. Many moms find it helps improve their energy and provides a sense of calm they didn’t realize they were missing. It’s also a rare, uninterrupted, quiet hour for you.
3. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist
How often do we hear about postpartum recovery for your pelvic health? Not enough.
Pregnancy and delivery—vaginal or C-section—can affect your pelvic floor. A pelvic PT specializes in helping you recover from common issues like pain, bladder leakage, and diastasis recti. They’ll guide you through exercises and strategies to restore strength and function so you can feel strong and supported. It’s one of those things you don’t realize how much you need until you’ve done it.
4. Nutritionist
Eating well after delivery is about more than losing the “baby weight.”
A nutritionist can help you focus on fueling your body for healing, breastfeeding (if that’s your choice), and maintaining energy levels during sleepless nights. Proper nutrition is key in stabilizing your mood and supporting your overall health during postpartum recovery.
5. Postpartum Doula
The ultimate support system for your transition to motherhood.
A postpartum doula provides hands-on help with newborn care, emotional support, and practical advice during those overwhelming early days. Whether it’s preparing meals, teaching baby-care techniques, or simply listening when you need to vent, their presence can make a huge difference in your confidence as a mom.
6. Night Nurse or Sleep Consultant
Because rest isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Sleep deprivation is one of the hardest parts of postpartum life. A night nurse can care for your baby during the night, giving you the rest you need. If that’s not an option, a sleep consultant can help you create a customized sleep plan to promote better rest for you and your baby.
7. Massage Therapist
Your body deserves care after the hard work it’s done.
Postpartum massage can ease muscle tension, promote relaxation, and even improve circulation to support healing. It’s also an opportunity to reconnect with your body in a positive and nurturing way, which can be profoundly healing after pregnancy and birth.
8. Lactation Consultant
Breastfeeding isn’t always “natural,” and that’s okay.
A lactation consultant is an invaluable resource if you’re struggling with breastfeeding. They can help with latching issues, milk supply concerns, or even transitioning to bottle feeding if that’s what works best for you. Their goal is to support you in reaching your feeding goals, whatever they may be.
Final Thoughts
Accepting help & support as a mom is a challenge, AND it’s the best thing you can do for you. Moms need to be cared for. Moms need to be held. And moms need a moment for themselves.
Motherhood is hard, and it’s okay to ask for help. Building a network of support tailored to your needs can be a game changer. Whether you’re struggling with physical recovery, emotional overwhelm, or need a helping hand, these professionals are here to lift you up. You deserve to feel supported, strong, and empowered in this new chapter.
Remember, asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s one of the strongest things a mom can do.
Do you have a postpartum plan? Which professionals will you include in your village? Let us know in the comments, or share this post with someone who might need these resources!
With love,
Kim