7 Raw Truths About Postpartum from a Family Photographer

The first weeks postpartum can feel like navigating uncharted waters, and honestly, you don’t know what you don’t know until you’re in it. The glossy Instagram posts about newborn life might have you expecting magical moments 24/7, but I’m here to share what nobody talks about—the real, raw, unfiltered side of postpartum life.

Sure, there are beautiful moments (and plenty of them!), but there are also challenges that don’t get enough attention. This post is like a chat with your best friend who tells it like it is, helping you prepare for what’s ahead.

My Postpartum Experience with Baby Lake

After Lake was born, I was overwhelmed in ways I didn’t expect. The love I felt for him was immediate, but so was the exhaustion. The first night home, I remember sitting in bed, holding him, and wondering how I was ever going to function on such little sleep. I had read all the books, but nothing prepared me for how deeply I would feel so much love for him!

One of the biggest surprises? How much my body still was changing in new ways. I was navigating bleeding, sore muscles, and the realization that healing is just as important as taking care of a newborn.

Through it all, I learned so much that I wish someone had told me. So, if you’re preparing for postpartum life, here are eight things you should know.

1. The First Bowel Movement Can Be Terrifying

Yep, we’re starting strong here. Nobody told me that the first bowel movement after giving birth could feel so daunting. It might sound like TMI, but trust me, this is the stuff you want to know about ahead of time.

Here’s how to make it easier:

• Take stool softeners. Your nurse or doctor will likely recommend them, and they’re not kidding. Don’t skip this. I requested a stool softener right after giving birth because I forgot mine at home in our rush to get to the hospital. If you’re reading this now – add them to your hospital bag, right now!
• Stay hydrated. Stock up on water and maybe even prune juice if you’re feeling bold.
• Breathe. Seriously, take it slow. You’ve got this.

Pro tip? Bring up those concerns during your postpartum check-up if you feel like things aren’t quite right.

2. Postpartum Bleeding Can Last for Weeks

After skipping your period for nine months, it comes back with a vengeance. Postpartum bleeding, also called lochia, can last up to six weeks. It’s heavier than your usual period, especially in the beginning, so stock up on heavy-duty pads.

My bleeding only last 2 weeks, but it was intense and sometimes full of larger clots. I did call the nurse at the hospital to confirm everything was alright and yes, small blood clots are ok and completely normal.

Here’s what else I learned about postpartum bleeding:

• It can change colors. At first, it will be bright red, then turn to a lighter pink or brownish color.
• Keep track of your flow and talk to your doctor if you’re concerned. If the bleeding is heavy or doesn’t seem normal, don’t hesitate to ask for help.
• Don’t use tampons, as they can increase the risk of infection. Stick with pads until your postpartum check-up.

3. Breastfeeding Isn’t Always “Natural”

Breastfeeding might be natural, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy—at least at first. I wasn’t prepared for how sore, cracked, and yes, even bloody my nipples got those first few days. Related read: I wrote about my experience with painful breastfeeding in the early weeks on my lifestyle blog, here. 

Here’s what helped me survive those early weeks:

• Nipple cream: I love everything by Earth Mama. The organic nipple butter, the diaper balm, and the unscented baby lotion are my favorites!
• Nursing pads: Trust me, you’ll need them, breastfeeding or not.
• Lactation consultant: If things aren’t working, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help.

No shame in doing what’s right for YOU—whether that’s breastfeeding, formula feeding, or something in between.

4. The Emotional Rollercoaster Is Intense

Everyone says becoming a mom is magical, but they rarely mention the emotional overwhelm that can come with it. One moment you’re crying tears of joy while holding your baby, and the next you’re bawling because you’re exhausted and unsure if you’re doing anything right.

What you’re feeling might be “baby blues,” which are common, but if the sadness or anxiety feels unmanageable, it could be postpartum depression. Seek out help immediately if this resonates with you—your mental health matters as much as your baby’s well-being.

5. Perineal Care Is Essential

If you had a vaginal delivery, especially one involving a tear or an episiotomy, perineal care is going to be your best friend. It’s not glamorous, but it’s necessary for recovery.

Essentials for healing:

• Ice packs (I used these for the first two days PP and then I switched to Witch Hazel Pads)
• Witch Hazel Perineal Cooling Pad Liners (I preferred these over ice packs for the rest of my PP recovery)
• Sitz Baths

Take it slow—your body just did something incredible, and healing takes time.

6. Postpartum Hair Loss Is Normal

This one caught me totally off guard. A couple of months into postpartum life, I started shedding what felt like all my hair. It’s scary, but it’s also temporary.

Why you lose hair after giving birth:

• During pregnancy, hormone changes mean you lose less hair. Postpartum? Your hormones rebalance, and all that hair starts to shed.

What helps:

• Gentle hair care products (keep it simple for now).
• Balanced meals with hair-healthy nutrients, like biotin, zinc, and protein.
• Loose hairstyles to avoid stress on your scalp.

Your hair will grow back—promise!

7. It’s OK to Ask for Help

Repeat after me: I don’t have to do it all by myself. You just brought a human into the world—the last thing you need to do is play Supermom. Ask for help! Whether it’s your partner, a friend, family member, or even a hired postpartum doula, leaning on others is not a sign of weakness.

Your people want to help, so ask them to:

• Hold the baby while you shower.
• Drop off meals.
• Lend an ear during those late-night rants.

At the End of the Day, You’re Not Alone

Postpartum life is a mix of highs and lows, but it’s also a season of growth and transformation. It’s OK to cry, laugh, and feel overwhelmed—all in the same hour. If you’re reading this while preparing for your baby’s arrival, know that you’ve got support and resources to lean on. And if you’re already in the thick of it, keep going—you’re doing great!

If you’d like more support, whether it’s finding a postpartum doula or capturing the beauty of your growing family, reach out. I’d love to help you document this amazing (and sometimes messy) chapter of life.

Since becoming a mom, my love for photographing families, babies, and motherhood moments has only grown. I get it now in a way I didn’t before—how quickly the newborn days fade, how fast the tiny hands grow, how much we cherish the photos that prove we were there. Mamas, step into the frame. You’ll never regret it!

Now booking family sessions—and more than happy to chat all things postpartum with new moms!