Postnatal Support Network

Being born and giving birth are two of the most impactful events in one's lifetime. After birth, it takes the mother around 40 Days to recover from labour. It takes at least this period of time to settle into her new identity and role as mother. Stress during the first 40 days after labour may cause difficulties with breastfeeding, slow the healing of the womb, and hinder bonding between mother and child. Lack of support may lead to exhaustion and the experience of short or long-term postnatal depression. PSN is an international non-profit organisation with a non-medical and social network dedicated to raising awareness and educating the larger public on the importance of postnatal rest and care. The Network provides professional training for those interested in becoming postnatal doulas - carers who can give human-centric holistic support during the postnatal period. Our vision: ”The 40 Days” is the exclusive postnatal rest and bonding time for the new mother during the first 40 days after birth. It becomes recognized as a universal human right for every mother and baby and integrated as a socially accepted premise. We envision mothers birthing humanity with dignity and receiving full support for at least 40 days after birth. Postnatal support must become once again an integral part of our society, with national and international policies supporting it, calling upon the responsibilities of local social services, health authorities and lawmakers. We see vulnerability in the postnatal period as a strength and an opportunity for homeostasis. To change the paradigm, we need to redefine our understanding of vulnerability. The old paradigm of the mother on her feet directly after birth is unphysiological and unhealthy and does not grant the mother any special status. We insist on honouring and celebrating the special statue of becoming a mother. Family that needs time to readjust to the new configuration.