Xavier, the pōtiki of our whānau turned 8 today and naturally I’ve been reflecting on the day he was born, the cluster feeds, the unexpected intensity of the afterpains, and how deeply grateful I was for two nights of rest and 24/7 midwife support at Waterford Birth Centre.
I’d given birth at Waterford [I currently work here very part-time as a midwife], a privately owned but publicly funded primary birthing centre here in Kirikiriroa, Hamilton. These places are rare and so precious, you get wraparound care from midwives in a quiet, homely setting. It’s a model we need to protect and value: use them or lose them.
The First 72 Hours Matter
The first few days after giving birth are powerful...and overwhelming. As a midwife and a mum, I’ve seen time and time again that it takes time for breastfeeding to establish - I think give yourself at least two weeks for it to click. Your baby is learning, your milk is transitioning, and your body is healing from an enormous event.
On night two with Xavier, I remember sitting in bed thinking:
"I’m starving. He’s cluster feeding. I have no idea if this is going well."
But I’d packed snacks - muesli bars, nuts, protein yoghurt, and fruit. This was before Lila Jasmine existed. If I gave birth tomorrow, you better believe I’d be packing our Milk Support Lactation Bars. They're made with galactagogues like oats, flaxseed, and brewer’s yeast - ingredients that naturally support milk supply and give mums an energy boost when they need it most. They’re easy to eat one-handed, gentle on the tummy, and just comforting to have on hand.
Make the Most of Midwife Support
One of the best things about staying at a birth centre like Waterford is the access to 24/7 midwife support in those early hours. Even as a midwife I still utilised having a midwife check Xavier’s latch, answer all my “is this normal?” questions, and help me feel confident heading into life at home with a newborn.
Breastfeeding doesn’t always “click” right away — and that’s okay. Getting early help and reassurance makes a massive difference. If you have the option to stay a night or two, take it. Rest is part of recovery.
The Afterpains Hit Me Hard
One thing no one prepared me for? The afterpains. With Xavier my third baby they were more intense than the birth itself. These crampy contractions are your uterus shrinking back down to size and can be especially painful when breastfeeding.
They get stronger with each baby, and breastfeeding makes them more intense because of the oxytocin surge. Anti inflammatory medication, heat packs, hydration and gentle movement helped me get through. Just know you’re not alone if you're surprised by how sore you feel.
Yes, Pack the Snacks [For You]
We’re so quick to plan for baby, but don’t forget you’ll need fuel too - especially if you’re planning to breastfeed. Labour takes a toll, and the first few days of feeding require energy and nourishment.
Our Lila Jasmine Milk Support Lactation Bars are crafted right here in Aotearoa using ingredients traditionally used to support milk production and maternal recovery. No weird ingredients, no fluff — just practical, evidence-informed nutrition in bar form.
Don’t Forget the Checklist
If you’re currently packing your hospital bag, I’ve created a free Birth Bag Checklist just for you. It’s the exact list I wish I had with Xavier — combining practical essentials with a few midwife-recommended extras that make a big difference.
This checklist has helped hundreds of mums across Aotearoa feel more prepared and more empowered. Print it off, check things off, and take the guesswork out of what to pack.
So if you're preparing for your own fourth trimester, here’s your gentle reminder:
- Pack the snacks [especially the good ones].
- Ask the midwives all the questions and have them check your latch.
- And be so kind to yourself - it really does take time.
You can explore our Milk Support Lactation Bars here or join our gentle, self-paced 4th Trimester Workshop if you’re wanting a little more confidence and support in those early weeks. You’re not alone in this.