Postpartum Health and Deficiencies I Suffered

You, Me and New Moms ! 

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Navigating Postpartum Recovery: My Journey with Vitamin D Deficiency and Everyday Wellness

Over the past few months, I have been experiencing significant health challenges due to a steep drop in my vitamin and iron levels—most notably, Vitamin D, which has plummeted to a level as low as 7 ng/mL.

Since the birth of my child in November, I have encountered unexpected but serious health challenges. Months of staying indoors with a breastfeeding-dependent infant have led to significant nutritional depletion—particularly in Vitamin D and iron levels. My most recent blood work revealed that my Vitamin D level has dropped alarmingly to just 7 ng/mL, despite weekly supplementation of 60,000 IU.

Despite adhering to a regimen of high-dose supplementation (60,000 IU weekly), I continue to feel fatigued and encounter persistent discomfort in various parts of my body, including my muscles and bones.

This physical condition has limited my ability to participate in professional work, household activities, outdoor movement, and even leisure routines like walking or vacations. My daily life has narrowed to only essential errands, and the rest of my time is spent in forced rest due to the intensity of these symptoms.

Much of this situation stems from staying indoors consistently since the birth of my child in November. As a mother of a fully breastfed infant, my nutritional reserves have been stretched thin, resulting in low iron and Vitamin D levels. The lack of sunlight exposure and physical activity has further compounded these health concerns.

The physical toll has been immense: constant fatigue, a pinching pain in my muscles and bones, and little to no energy for even the most basic professional or household responsibilities. Outdoor movement and leisure activities have come to a complete halt, leaving me largely confined to bed rest, with only occasional door-to-door errands

Based on my experience, I sincerely urge fellow new mothers to prioritize their health postpartum. 

Please ensure you:

Take prescribed supplements consistently and as recommended by your healthcare provider

Maintain a well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet

Step out for light physical activity such as morning or evening walks

Allow yourself safe sun exposure for natural Vitamin D absorption

Remaining confined indoors may seem necessary at times, but it should not become a long-term substitute for nurturing your physical and mental well-being. Reclaiming health is a journey that begins with small but deliberate steps.

This experience has taught me that postpartum recovery requires more than just patience—it demands proactive care. I want to emphasize to all new mothers:

🌿 Prioritize Your Health Postpartum

• Take your supplements regularly as prescribed by your physician
• Include iron-rich and Vitamin D-friendly foods in your daily meals
• Step out for fresh air and light walking—morning or evening walks can work wonders
• Soak in natural sunlight safely to boost Vitamin D levels naturally

🧠 Staying Indoors Isn’t a Long-Term Solution—Nourishing Yourself Is

Alongside medical care, building a nutrient-rich diet has become a core part of my recovery routine. Here's a sample guide I follow that’s both practical and energizing:

🕘 Morning Rituals

• Begin with warm water or methi (fenugreek) infused water
• For breakfast, opt for wholesome options like oats with mashed vegetables, daliya, or moong dal and quinoa combinations
• Quinoa can also be used creatively in upma or salads
• Other favorites: poha, vermicelli, and seasonal fruits around mid-morning

🍽️ Afternoon Nourishment

• A vibrant bowl of salad loaded with fiber and hydration
• Lunch includes a simple but nourishing plate: any dal, seasonal vegetables, curd, chapati or rice

🍵 Evening and Night Routine

• Skip heavy snacks and choose green tea to control cravings
• Dinner should be light but balanced: smaller portions of your lunch-style meal to help feel full while still digesting easily

And above all, I make space for even small walks—just 10 minutes outdoors can offer physical release and mental clarity.

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This journey has been humbling, but also awakening. If you’re a new mom, remember: your health matters just as much as your baby’s. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

Let me know if you’d like to share your experiences & make other new mom feel deserved to be heard and supported 💛.

Be healthy, Stay happy and always Keep Smiling.