WHAT NO ONE PREPARES YOU FOR After Birth AND HOW TO GET AHEAD OF IT

Giving birth is a monumental event.

- Shari Stamps

Whether your experience is full of euphoria, exhaustion, or a bit of both, everyone talks about the baby registry — but not enough people talk about what happens to you after delivery. Despite all the prenatal checklists and baby gear must-haves, postpartum recovery is one of the most overlooked aspects of childbirth preparation. Here's what no one prepares you for after birth, and more importantly, how to get ahead of it.

1 You Might End Up in the ER After Birth:

One of the harshest realities many new parents face is the possibility of an unexpected postpartum emergency. From hemorrhaging and blood clots to intense pelvic pain and high blood pressure, complications can arise long after you're discharged from the hospital. It's essential to recognize that postpartum symptoms can shift quickly from normal to urgent.

How to Get Ahead:

• Learn what red flags to look for postpartum: heavy bleeding, chest pain, extreme swelling, high fever, or vision changes.

• Keep your postpartum paperwork handy and your doctor's number saved in your phone.