Bringing a baby into the world is a life-changing experience, yet for many mothers in the United States, the support they receive after birth is shockingly minimal.

After nine months of prenatal care and frequent check-ins, a mother gives birth and is then left to navigate postpartum recovery largely on her own. Aside from a single six- to eight-week postpartum checkup, there is little to no structured medical support.

For many women, this visit is a brief conversation—one that may not even touch on the depth of what they are going through physically, emotionally, or mentally. If a mother is struggling with postpartum depression, pelvic floor issues, breastfeeding complications, or hormonal imbalances, she is often left to recognize the problem herself and advocate for care. But how can she ask for help when she doesn’t know what’s “normal” or where to turn?

The postpartum period should not be a time of isolation or confusion. It should be one of healing, support, and care. Other countries have routine postpartum home visits, extended maternity leave, and ongoing care for mothers. Meanwhile, in the U.S., women are expected to “bounce back” and figure it out on their own.

It’s time to shift the conversation and demand better postpartum care. Mothers deserve comprehensive check-ins, mental health screenings, pelvic floor therapy, and resources that make healing after birth a priority. No mother should have to suffer in silence simply because the system fails to support her.

If you’re a new mom struggling with postpartum recovery, know that you are not alone. Speak up, seek out holistic and medical resources, and connect with other mothers who understand. Change starts with awareness, and together, we can push for a postpartum system that truly cares for the women who give life.