Resources for You and Baby
Find trusted information and resources.
For You
Learn more about changes to your body and mind.
Depression, Anxiety, and Psychosis / Depresión, Ansiedad, y Psicosis
If you are depressed, have anxiety, or have other mental health concerns, seek help from your healthcare provider, hospital emergency department, Postpartum Support International (1-800-944-4773), or call 1-800-TLC-MAMA. Learn more / Más información
Rest and Sleep / El sueño
It’s normal for your sleep quality to change after birth. Ask for help so you can nap or rest. Learn more / Más información
Leave and Disability
Most workers have the right to job-protected leave from work, with pay, while they recover from childbirth and bond with their baby. Learn more
Mindfulness / Práctica de la atención plena
Focus on the present moment and what you are grateful for. Learn more / Más información
Healthy Eating and Nutrition / MiPlato y mi plan nutricional
Eat healthy meals with fruits, vegetables, lean meats, beans, dairy, and whole grains. Drink 8-10 glasses of water per day. Learn more / Más información
Sexual Health and Birth Control
Avoid sex until you are healed (6 weeks) to prevent infection. Talk to your partner and healthcare provider about contraception before having sex.
Parentage Opportunity Program (POP) / Programa de Oportunidad de Paternidad (POP)
Visit a video resource library (in English and en Español) that explains what POP is and how it works.
Managing Pain
Over-the-counter medications like Tylenol or Advil can be used. Ice packs for pain around the vagina or warm pad on the stomach for cramping.
Activities and Restrictions / El ejercicio físico
Start slow, like walking or stretching for 30 minutes/3 times a week to support healing. Learn more / Más información
Medi-Cal Resources
If you have Medi-Cal and are pregnant or a new parent, you may be eligible for Transitional Care Services (TCS), which are designed to support you after discharging from the hospital. Learn more
Self-Care
Take care of yourself, too. Do things that make you feel better.
Hemorrhoid Care
Usually disappears a few weeks after birth. Use side-lying position, eat a high-fiber diet, and drink lots of water. Creams and medications (such as Senna) can be used.
Loss of Your Pregnancy or Baby / La pérdida de su bebé
There will be many ups and downs through the grieving process. It’s okay to be angry or sad. It may help to talk to your partner, friend, family member, and healthcare provider, or Postpartum Support International (1-800-944-4773). Learn more / Más información
Need Extra Help?
If you find yourself in need of food, shelter, or other basic needs, go to FindHelp.com. Insert your zip code for available resources in or near your neighborhood.
For Your Baby
Important information to help you care for your child.
Sleep & SIDS
Always put the baby down on their back to sleep on a firm mattress, no blankets or toys in the crib. Learn more
Safety
Keep your baby safe while sleeping and protected from hazards while awake. Learn more
Baby Carriers
Consider using a baby carrier to keep your baby close. It frees up your hands to move through the day more easily. Learn more
Vaccines
Protect your baby from dangerous childhood diseases. Vaccines are safe and effective. Learn more
The clinical information presented is based on widely accepted principles and knowledge within the health care field, reflecting standard practices supported by clinical guidelines, peer-reviewed literature, and professional training. Content derived from general clinical knowledge is not attributed to a single source but represents commonly taught and broadly recognized concepts in health care.
We gratefully acknowledge the support of Merck for Mothers for funding this project to improve patient-centered outcomes. The content is the responsibility of the developers and does not necessarily represent the official views of Merck for Mothers.
Go to Caring for Postpartum Patients (Provider Resources)