MOTHERWARD

Postpartum without a village

You do not need to build a whole network today. You deserve care before a network exists.

Start with three small connections

1. A route to care. Save your clinician’s number and after-hours instructions.
2. The next meal. Put food and water within reach. Use simple food; leave nonessential chores.
3. One human contact. A trusted person, a peer group, or maternal emotional support can be a starting point.

If nobody comes to mind

“I recently gave birth and have no reliable help at home. I cannot safely manage ____. Can you connect me with social work or a community resource?”

Start with the birth hospital or maternity team. For local food, transport, and other practical resources in the U.S., contact 211. Eligibility, cost, and availability vary.

If one acquaintance may be able to help

“Could you leave one ready-to-eat meal at my door Tuesday? No visit needed. It is okay if you cannot.”

Share only what is needed. You do not have to reconnect with an unsafe person to get support.

Professional and peer options

Ask about lactation care, therapists, telehealth, and local home-visiting programs. Postpartum Support International lists free peer groups. Groups do not replace treatment or emergency care.

Postpartum doulas, grocery delivery, childcare, and housekeeping can be useful if affordable. They are optional routes, not requirements. Ask about fees, references, scope, and any reduced-cost provision.

When you need someone now

For non-emergency maternal emotional support, call or text 1-833-852-6262. Immediate danger: 911. Tell responders you are alone with a baby. Do not delay urgent care to find childcare.

The full guide includes an eight-page no-village section and a printable one-person plan.