When it comes to the first 3 months, the first 6 month, and even the first year of postpartum. It’s a valid feeling if you’re feeling at a loss and not sure what to do. How do you plan for the unexpected? Beyond getting the babies room ready, here are 9 areas to review and perhaps create a plan around or think about further.

1. Postpartum Health and Recovery

Tip: Prioritize your postpartum checkups. Schedule your 6-week checkup as soon as possible, but don’t wait for that appointment to ask for help. If you’re feeling unwell physically or emotionally, reach out to your healthcare provider sooner. Early intervention is key to a smoother recovery.

2. Your Support System

Tip: Communicate your needs clearly and set boundaries. Whether it’s asking for help with household tasks, or simply needing space, being open about your needs helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures you get the support you really need. Don’t be afraid to say no to visitors if you need rest.

3. Feeding Plans: Breastfeeding & Formula Feeding

Tip: Be flexible with your feeding plan. Breastfeeding doesn’t always go as planned, and formula feeding is perfectly okay too. If breastfeeding is challenging, seek help from a lactation consultant, and don’t feel guilty if you need to switch to formula—feeding your baby is the priority, not the method.

4. Sleep and Rest Strategies

Tip: Nap when the baby naps. The “sleep when the baby sleeps” advice is golden. Even if you have chores or other things to do, resting when the baby is sleeping helps restore your energy and supports both physical and mental health. Prioritize sleep during those early months.

5. Financial Planning & Budgeting

Tip: Create a postpartum budget. Baby expenses can sneak up on you. Consider setting aside a portion of your income during pregnancy to cover baby essentials and unexpected costs. Having a financial cushion will ease the stress and allow you to focus on your baby instead of money worries.

6. Returning to Work or Staying Home

Tip: Start planning your return to work early. Whether you're returning part-time or full-time, give yourself time to adjust. Consider a gradual return by starting with shorter workdays or exploring flexible work arrangements. Don’t rush; you can ease into the process for a smoother transition.

7. Creating a Home Environment for Baby

Tip: Baby-proof in stages. You don’t need to baby-proof your entire home all at once. Start with the areas where your baby will spend the most time, and as they grow, tackle other rooms. This way, you can stay on top of safety without feeling overwhelmed by a massive to-do list.

8. Planning for Postpartum Support and Care

Tip: Hire help or arrange support early. Whether it’s a postpartum doula, housekeeper, or meal delivery service, organizing these resources before the baby arrives takes a lot of stress off your plate. Having someone to help with chores or baby care during the first few weeks can give you the space to focus on healing and bonding.

9. Long-Term Growth and Development Planning

Tip: Document milestones and celebrate small wins. While it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of daily life, taking the time to document developmental milestones and celebrate small achievements (even something as simple as baby's first smile) helps you stay present and connected during this rapidly changing time.

If you’re not sure where to start and you’re even the slightest bit of a planner, Consider the Build Your Nest workbook. This is a postpartum planning guided journal for you and your support system to dive in and review these + more when it comes to creating a postpartum plan. You can purchase your own copy from the website or stop by Luna and pick up a copy.