Tips For Managing Your Postpartum As A Neurodivergent Parent

We are no experts, Ashlie Yair and I are just 2 neuro-spicy doulas who see our fellow neurodivergent parents having a harder time. Who is a neurodivergent parent? Typically they are a person whose brain processes information in what is considered a non-traditional way. These thing can include but not limited to ADHD, autism spectrum, dyslexia, OCD, bipolar, sensory processing disorder, epilepsy and so many more. In a large part thanks to social media, many of us are recognizing we fit into this category.

Frequently as children if you were a female, many of us were overlooked into fitting into these categories. We are learning more about being neurodivergent is a spectrum and there are varying degrees. Just like in school, In parenthood, challenges may be overlooked due to common perceptions like tiredness being expected. “Of course you are tired! You’re a new parent!”. “You can’t get organized? That’s normal, your a new parent!” But what if there was a neurological reason these things are happening to you? Maybe your exhaustion is actually sensory overload and not being able to make appointments is demand avoidance.

So does this mean you are destined to stagger through postpartum as a zombie? Absolutely not, postpartum can be an amazing time for you. With some creative planning and brain storming, you can set yourself up.

Here are 5 tips to help set up your postpartum.

1.) Identify your sensory needs. To much noise make your skin crawl? Use noise canceling headphones. Bright lights are harsh? Only use table lamps and use blue light glasses. Strong smells are overwhelming? Use an air purifier next to the changing table.

2.) Create your postpartum cave. Limited visitors and only have space for helpers. Make sure to surround yourself in comfortable clothing to avoid tackle triggers. Have hydration and snacks handy.

3.) Communicate with your partner. Discuss big and hard issues before baby gets here and sleep deprivation kicks in. What forms of communication work best for you? Are their triggers you both have?

4.) What works for your executive function? List making, calendar reminders, phone alerts, dry/erase calendars and boards are all wonderful ways to keep track of what you and your partner need to remember and share information.

5.) Focus on the here and now. What needs to get done in the next 15 minutes, 2 hours or day? Make short obtainable goals and focus on the most important.

​These are just a few of the many ways that Ashlie & I talk about in our upcoming virtual workshop. We want to make sure you are preparing yourself and your partner for challenges that may come up. We have taken our real life experiences, challenges we have seen our clients have and research into create this one hour workshop complete with visuals and handouts. Find out more with the link below.