97. The First Hours After Birth: Postpartum Recovery, Pumping, and Bonding With My NICU Baby

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Can you imagine recovering from birth—and not having your baby in your arms?

It’s something no mother plans for, but it’s the reality for so many NICU moms. In this episode, Chelsea is sharing what those first hours after birth looked like for her: recovering after birth while her son was in the NICU, navigating pumping, care windows, and bonding from across the hospital.

This isn’t a how-to—it’s a reflection on the emotions that surfaced when her postpartum recovery didn't go as expected. She talks about the weight of being separated from your baby, the overwhelm of updating family when you're still processing everything yourself, and how grief and gratitude can both exist. She also opens up about how she and her husband experienced NICU visits differently, how her faith held her steady, and what she wished more people knew about this experience.

If you or someone you love is walking through early postpartum with a NICU baby, she prays this conversation helps you feel seen, validated, and supported.

Disclaimer: The information and stories shared during this episode is intended to offer general guidance and support. However, every individual's health and circumstances are unique. Before making any significant changes, or if you have concerns about your health, it's essential to consult with your healthcare practitioner.

Next Steps:

• DM me on Instagram @postpartumbetter