Postpartum Recovery in Pakistan: What No One Tells New Mothers
Khadija FatimaBreaking the Silence
No one prepared me for postpartum recovery.
Not my doctor, not the aunties around me, not even Google.
In Pakistan, we rarely talk about what happens after birth. You are expected to “just know” how to feed, how to change a diaper, how to heal, how to handle the crying, how to be okay.
But the truth is, many of us are silently struggling. It is time we start talking about it openly, without shame.
The Pressure to “Know It All”
When my baby was born, I had never changed a diaper in my life. I learned the hard way through leaks, wrong sizes, and many messy accidents. I had to teach my husband too, but why was that even my job?
Why do we assume that mothers magically know how to do everything while fathers “help” when asked?
Parenting is teamwork. Both parents need to learn diapering, soothing, feeding, and all the little things that keep a newborn happy and healthy.
Breastfeeding Is Not Always Natural
One of the biggest myths in our culture is that breastfeeding “just happens.”
The reality? Many moms face pain, low supply, cracked nipples, and endless guilt.
And instead of support, we often hear:
“Latch the baby or you are a bad mom.”
“No top feed or you’ll ruin your milk.”
No one explains how to position the baby, how to check for a proper latch, or what to do if it hurts.
Where to Get Support in Pakistan:
- Fakeha from Labour of Love Lactation: Offers compassionate support and practical advice for new mothers. She also offers prenatal breastfeeding classes.
- Sumbal Hareem from Lactnation: Certified IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultants).
- Book prenatal breastfeeding classes with them to prepare before the baby arrives.
Postpartum Depression Is Real
You are not crazy. You are not weak. You are not “too hormonal.”
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a real medical condition, not a character flaw. Studies show that globally, 1 in 7 mothers experience it and in South Asia, rates are even higher due to stigma and lack of awareness.
Signs of PPD:
- Persistent sadness or emptiness
- Difficulty bonding with your baby
- Feeling hopeless or overwhelmed
- Loss of interest in things you once enjoyed
Where to Get Help in Pakistan:
If you cry often, feel numb, or cannot connect with your baby, please reach out. Treatment works. Support groups exist. You are not alone.
Asking for Help Is Strength, Not Weakness
In our society, mothers are expected to do everything; cook, clean, feed, host visitors, and care for the baby all while recovering from birth.
Asking for help is seen as weakness.
But it is actually strength. It takes courage to say, “I am tired” or “I need help.” It allows your body and mind to heal, and it sets a healthy example for your child.
Learn Before Birth. Not After
Do not wait until you are holding a crying baby to learn how to feed, soothe, and care for them.
- Hire a doula for birth planning and education. (Anum from Amani was my Doula & I LOVE her).
- Attend prenatal classes on newborn care and breastfeeding.
- Read evidence-based resources so you can make informed choices, not last-minute guesses.
Postpartum recovery is not just about your body. It is about your mind, your heart, and your new identity as a mother.
If you are a new mom reading this, know that you are doing better than you think.
And if you know a new mom, remind her she is not alone and she does not have to “just know it all.”