The first 2 weeks after birth are a precious time for you and your partner to focus on your new family.

While you'll be able to do little more than nurse and hold the baby, your partners job will be to make sure that you drink enough fluids, eat regular healthy meals and get the rest that you need.

Your partner may want to make arrangements now to take off time from work when the baby is born.

Don't be shy about letting family and friends know how they can help either in the first 2 weeks after the baby is born or perhaps more valuably after your partner returns to work and its just you and the baby for lengthy stretches of time.

It may help to write lists of tasks or shopping needs for any new grandparents who may be visiting in the first few weeks.

Doulas women trained to support the expectant mother during labor and to assist families as they settle in to life with a new baby are also an option and may be covered at least in part by your health insurance. Visiting nurse services are also often covered; check with your medical insurer.

This message is not intended to provide individual medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have about your health or medical condition, your breastfeeding issues and your infant's health. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you have read in our emails, webpages or other electronic communications.

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