Navigating Postpartum Life: 10 Must-Know Tips from your Surprise Newborn Photographer

Ready for some real talk about postpartum life?

I’m not here to sugarcoat things or give you the glossy Instagram version of motherhood. Nope. In this post, I’m dishing the honest, unfiltered truth about what to expect after giving birth—the stuff that somehow never makes it into the hospital discharge packet.

Buckle up, because we’re about to get real, raw, and maybe even a little bit TMI. But hey—that’s what friends (and your favorite Surprise newborn photographer) are for, right?

The First Bowel Movement = Terrifying

No one talks about this, but they should. That first postpartum poop can feel scarier than labor itself. Stool softeners, plenty of water, and even prune juice are your best friends here. If you had a c-section, it can feel even more intimidating, so be gentle with yourself.

Tip: Mayo Clinic postpartum recovery guide has some solid advice on what’s normal and what’s not.

Night Sweats Are Real (and Rude)

Your body has been holding onto extra fluid for months, and now it’s basically saying, “Bye, Felicia.” That means waking up drenched in sweat at 2 a.m.—as if you weren’t already up feeding your baby. Thanks, body.

Lightweight PJs, breathable bedding, and drinking water during the day can help.

Pro tip: keep an extra set of sheets nearby so you can do a quick switcheroo in the middle of the night (your future self will thank you).

Postpartum Bleeding = Aunt Flo’s Comeback Tour

You skipped your period for nine months, but now it’s back with a vengeance. Stock up on heavy-duty pads (tampons are a no-go for now). Or, if you're wanting to feel a little less bulky, period underwear is a great option too!

If you’re not sure what’s normal, a postpartum doula can be an amazing resource. Here in the Phoenix area, check out Modern Mama Doula for support.

Breastfeeding Isn’t Always “Natural”

Listen, I thought breastfeeding was going to feel like a scene out of a Hallmark movie. Instead, it felt more like a deleted scene from Survivor.

Cracked nipples, sore breasts, leaking milk—it’s a lot. Stock up on nipple cream and nursing pads ASAP. These reusable ones on Amazon have 31,000 reviews and almost 5 stars!

If you’re wondering if it’s time to get professional help with breastfeeding and where to find breastfeeding resources in Surprise, click here to read my post about mastering the art of breastfeeding.

Baby Blues vs. Postpartum Depression

Not every mom feels blissed-out after birth. The emotional rollercoaster is real. Baby blues are common, but if the sadness lingers or worsens, it might be postpartum depression—and that is 100% something to get help for. And it is OK to ask for help!

Resource: Postpartum Support International Arizona

Perineum Care = DIY Spa (Sort Of)

If you had a tear or episiotomy, healing can be rough. Ice packs, witch hazel pads, and sitz baths are lifesavers.

Want to take it up a notch? Try DIY padsicles (pads soaked in witch hazel + aloe + lavender, then frozen). They’re basically the postpartum version of a spa day—minus the cucumber water.

Click the image below to download your free recipe card for these life changing postpartum padsicles.

Postpartum Hair Loss = “Why Is My Shower Drain Clogged?”

Around three months postpartum, you might start shedding like crazy. Don’t panic—it’s normal, and your hair will grow back. In the meantime, use gentle hair products and avoid tight hairstyles.

Feeling Overwhelmed Is Normal

Let’s be real: keeping a tiny human alive is a big deal. Feeling overwhelmed doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re human.

Ask for help. Seriously. Whether it’s a friend holding the baby while you shower or a meal train set up by family, accept the help offered. You’re not supposed to do this alone.

Pop Culture Truth Bomb

Hollywood makes it look like moms “bounce back” overnight (looking at you, Kardashians), but in real life, recovery takes weeks, months, or even years—and that’s perfectly okay.

Motherhood isn’t about bouncing back. It’s about moving forward—with strength, grace, and maybe some messy buns and Target runs along the way.

Bonus Tip: Capture These Moments

If you’re still pregnant and reading this—first off, go you for being so prepared! And second, now is the perfect time to start thinking about newborn photos.

As a Surprise newborn photographer, I specialize in bringing posed, studio-style newborn sessions right into your home. No packing up the baby gear, no stress—just beautiful, snuggly memories captured in your own space.

Check out my newborn portfolio here.

Final Thoughts from this Surprise Newborn Photographer

Postpartum life is messy, beautiful, exhausting, and nothing like the movies. But you’re stronger than you think, and you don’t have to do this alone.

Bookmark this post, lean on your people, and remember—whether it’s night sweats, sore nipples, or just needing someone to say, “You’re doing amazing,”—you’ve got this.

And if you want to freeze these newborn days in time, I’d love to help. Reach out to your local Surprise newborn photographer (hi, that’s me!), and let’s capture those fleeting newborn moments!

Looking for more help with getting prepared for baby's arrival? Click here to learn about the extra trimester of pregnancy that nobody talks about!

*Just so you know: Many of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy through them—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for the support!