Relationships · Postpartum
Postpartum Couples
The predictable satisfaction drop — named so it stops being attributed to each other
Relationship satisfaction predictably drops after a baby arrives — for both partners. Naming what's actually happening (sleep, hormones, role shifts, invisible labor) prevents attributing it to each other.
Sleep in the last 7 days (each)
One thing my partner did this week that helped
One thing I need this week I'm not asking for
Screen for postpartum mood
- Persistent low mood > 2 weeks
- Crying most days
- Rage / rage attacks
- Intrusive thoughts about baby
- Feeling nothing / detached from baby
- Panic / can't sleep even when baby sleeps
If any of the above — call OB/midwife this week. Support person for that call:
This isn't the relationship — this is the season
The relationship comes back. The season doesn't last. Meanwhile: less accuracy about who's failing at what, more sleep and food and outside help.