Prepare Her for Postpartum

The Postpartum Preparedness Plan™

We prepare for the birth.
We prepare for the baby.
Let’s prepare for her, too.

So much of postpartum mental health care begins after a mom is already struggling. The Postpartum Preparedness Plan™ was created to help shift that approach from reactive to proactive.

Why I created this: during pregnancy and after having my baby, I was given packets, papers, and resources to keep in case I needed them. Most were never looked at again—not because they weren't important, but because there was too much information in too many places.

I kept thinking: Why are we waiting until a mom is struggling to take action?

That question shaped The Postpartum Preparedness Plan™—an evidence-informed educational and planning resource designed to be completed during pregnancy, before problems arise.

Rather than adding another packet of information, the essential pieces of postpartum mental health preparation come together into one simple, actionable document that can be read and completed in as little as 20 minutes.

It also includes a step-by-step crisis plan, because in an emergency, you shouldn't have to figure out what to do in the moment.

“If this helps one mom feel more prepared for postpartum, I will feel accomplished.”

Olivia Bauer, MA, LPC-Associate

Supervised by Lindsey Taylor, LPC-S

Why Might I Need This?

Approximately 1 in 5 women experience a maternal mental health disorder during pregnancy or the first year postpartum.

You don’t have to expect the worst to prepare for what postpartum may bring.

The goal is simple: think through important questions before you're exhausted, overwhelmed, or trying to figure out what to do next.

Reference: World Health Organization. (2022). Guide for integration of perinatal mental health in maternal and child health services. World Health Organization.

What's Inside The Postpartum Preparedness Plan™

A proactive approach to postpartum mental health—because preparation shouldn't begin when you're already struggling.

One simple plan. Approximately 20 minutes to complete. Support that starts before baby arrives.

This educational resource is not a screening or diagnostic tool and does not replace professional care.

  • Understand postpartum mental health, recognize symptoms, risk factors, and know when to seek support.

  • Identify your warning signs, coping strategies, and support needs.

  • The Support Person Guide helps loved ones recognize warning signs, offer support, and take action—because preparing for postpartum shouldn't fall on mom alone.

  • A concise, step-by-step plan including contacts, childcare arrangements, transportation plan, and resources in case of an emergency.

Prepare now.

Know what to look for.

Know what to do next.

Prepare now. Know what to look for. Know what to do next.

For Moms

For Moms

Filters

Individual Use - The Postpartum Preparedness Plan™

One digital copy for personal use. No redistribution or commercial use.

Purchase your plan, download the PDF, and plan for your postpartum.

$10.00

No results found

No results match your search. Try removing a few filters.

Evidence-Informed | Pilot-Tested | Professionally Reviewed

Developed using research on perinatal mental health, informed by feedback from mothers, and reviewed by maternal mental health professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Every pregnancy and postpartum experience is different. Whether it's your first or fifth baby, preparing for your mental health should be a priority.

  • Keep it somewhere easily accessible (on the fridge, on your phone, etc.) become familiar with it, share it with your support system, and revisit or update it as your needs change.

  • Your partner, trusted support person(s), and healthcare providers. Share it with anyone who may play a role in supporting you postpartum.

    The plan was intentionally designed to be simple and easy to understand for anyone who may be in your support system.

  • Ideally before 32 weeks of pregnancy to leave room for any updates or changes you may wish to make before your postpartum period begins.

    Give yourself time to reflect, identify your needs, and involve your support system.

  • Every mom can benefit from preparing for postpartum mental health. The plan also explores evidence-based risk factors for developing a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder (PMAD), helping you better understand your individual risks and prepare before baby arrives.

Have Questions?

We'll review your message and get back to you within 48 hours.