By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Staff Writer
tmcqueen@afro.com
The AFRO recently spoke with several experts and mothers about the importance of adequate postpartum care and tips for Black moms preparing for and navigating the postpartum period.
Postpartum care can be crucial for the mental, emotional and physical wellness of mothers and their babies. Improper care can lead to long-term mental health problems, missed or delayed diagnoses and maternal mortality.
“When Black mothers complain, they are viewed as being difficult or their concerns are dismissed,” said Dr. Tomeka Roberts, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist. “That’s why it is so important to have a diverse set of providers available that can understand the cultural needs.”
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), Black women are about three times more likely to die during or after childbirth than their White counterparts.
“A person’s mental health affects their physical health and ability to care for others, so as a new mother, it is especially important to prioritize mental health,” said Joy Twesigye, the vice president of Health Strategy at Colorado Access, a non-profit health care plan for Colorado residents.
Roberts laid out how postpartum can impact mothers and the difference between “baby blues” after birth and depression.
“Baby blues, which typically happen the first 10 to 14 days after birth, are attributed to hormonal changes,” said Roberts. “They can cause crying spells and anxiety.”
Roberts described depression as more severe and prolonged than “baby blues.”
“It’s where a mom may not take care of herself or the baby,” added Roberts. “Symptoms may include persistent sadness or despair, lack of interest and fatigue. Worst-case scenarios are when a mom has thoughts of harming herself or the baby.”
Establish a network of support
“One important part of the birthing experience for a lot of people is knowing they have a network available to them, of mothers, sisters, aunties, friends, etc.,” said Twesigye. “Calling upon a ‘village’ can really impact the quality of the postpartum experience in a positive way, because the birther feels properly supported.”
Rachell Dumas, a registered nurse and maternal health advocate, advised mothers to fine-tune their support network.
“Postpartum isn’t the time to discover who can’t show up for you,” said Dumas. “Before you’re in labor, have honest discussions with your family and friends about what support looks like for you, your non-negotiables such as food, rest and childcare, and their capacity and boundaries.”
Roberts added that churches can aid in creating a support system for new mothers.
“Churches are the backbone of the Black community,” said Roberts. “Usually, the church moms can rally around a new mother in need and help support them emotionally, by visiting them and helping with some of the care.”
Prepare for Postpartum Before Conception
Dumas, a mother who persevered through nine pregnancy losses, emphasized the importance of preparing for the postpartum period as early as possible.
“If you’re trying to conceive or even just considering motherhood, now is the time to begin working with a therapist,” said Dumas. “Not only does therapy help you process childhood trauma or relationship challenges, but it also gives you a safe space to navigate the identity shift of motherhood.”
“You’ll already have mental health support in place if you face postpartum depression, anxiety, psychosis, or grief,” added Dumas. “It’s much harder to find help when you’re already in crisis.”
Find culturally informed care
For culturally informed postpartum care, Roberts recommends Black mothers consider getting a postpartum doula and community support programs where mothers can talk with other moms who are also going through the same transitions.
“A doula can be an advocate to the medical team to make sure the birther is grounded and feels like their team is listening to them before, during and after a birth,” said Twesigye. “Birth and the postpartum period can be a very vulnerable time, so it’s especially important when complications arise.”
Twesigye suggested finding providers who are curious and open-minded.
“Find providers who like to look things up and consult with their colleagues,” said Twesigye. “Curiosity is an important trait and can be a sign of humility and willingness to listen to other points of view.”
Practice advocating for yourself
“One of the hardest things folks learn to do is to speak up for themselves,” said Twesigye. “Start small to build up to the big things.”
Twesigye suggests sending coffee back if the order is wrong, letting the manicurist know when the pedicure is painful and asking for clarification during obstetrics appointments to work up to the more challenging situations.
Roberts’ tips for postpartum moms include prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries with their visitors.
“Honor your rest,” said Dumas. “Protect your peace. Your healing is the priority.”