FAQs
What does postpartum mean?
Postpartum is the time after the birth of your baby, sometimes called the fourth trimester. While some define it as the first 6 weeks, up to 6 months, or even 2 years, I don’t think there is a set timeframe. After giving birth, you don’t return to who you were before—you grow into someone new. The early weeks, especially from birth to 6 weeks, are often when families need the most support, but the need for support can extend far beyond, and each family’s journey is different.
If you’re in a tender season of transition—whether days or months after birth—I’m here to offer care, nourishment, and support.
What is Matrescence?
Matrescence is the word used to describe the transition into motherhood, not just with your first baby, but each time you welcome a new child. Learning about this concept and watching the video below helped me understand that the intense emotions, identity shifts, and moments of disorientation I felt were a normal part of becoming a mother.
Curious to learn more?
Watch this TED Talk by Alexandra Sacks: A New Way to Think About the Transition to Motherhood.
It helped me feel seen—and it might do the same for you.
Alexandra Sacks: A new way to think about the transition to motherhood | TED Talk
What is a postpartum companion (or doula)?
A postpartum companion offers holistic support to new mothers, including but not limited to:
Emotional support
Evidence-based information and guidance
Physical support
Support for partners and siblings
Connection to local and community resources
And almost anything else a new mother might need to feel nourished, seen, and supported
My intention is not to hold the baby, but to hold the mother, physically and emotionally, so she can rest, heal, and bond with her baby.
I choose the word companion because it reflects the kind of relationship I hope to build—one rooted in trust, presence, and shared experience.
Why should I hire you for meal prep services?
My meals are more than just food—they’re an offering of care for new mothers and their families. I thoughtfully craft each menu with the needs of the postpartum body in mind: warm, easy to digest, and deeply nourishing. Using your home kitchen, I blend traditional postpartum wisdom with modern food safety practices to create meals that support healing and ease during this tender time. Whether you’re navigating the early fog of new motherhood or simply needing support to rest and recover, I’m here to nourish you so you can nourish your baby.
When should I hire you for meal preparation?
Whenever it feels right for you. I can prepare and freeze meals during pregnancy, so you’re stocked and ready when baby arrives. I’m also available to cook any time during the postpartum period, whether that’s in the first few days, weeks, or even months after birth. Postpartum looks different for every family, and I’m here to support you when you need it most.
Where do you prepare the meals?
To comply with the Wisconsin Food Code, I prepare all meals in your home kitchen. This not only ensures the highest standards of food safety and sanitation but also creates a comforting space for us to connect. I’d love to get to know you and share a cup of tea while you relax with your baby and I prepare nourishing meals for you and your family. When I’m finished, your kitchen is clean and everything is put away, leaving you with nothing but delicious, healing food.
What do I need to provide for you to meal prep for me?
A kitchen with basic cooking equipment, like a stovetop and oven
Ingredients on hand, or I can help by picking up groceries or shopping for you
Some kitchen utensils for food prep (I’ll send you a list ahead of time, and can also bring equipment if needed)
Containers for storing meals—I usually recommend glass storage containers for freshness and safety
Can you support my specific dietary needs? Allergies? Food preferences?
Yes! Every meal is thoughtfully crafted to meet your unique needs. I’m experienced with the top 9 food allergies and follow strict food safety practices in the kitchen. My goal is to prepare nourishing food you genuinely enjoy, so we’ll collaborate to find recipes that fit your dietary requirements, preferences, and family size.
What kinds of foods are recommended in the postpartum period?
I draw inspiration from traditional cultures and books like The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother by Heng Ou. Many traditions emphasize warming foods, both in temperature and flavor, along with easy-to-digest, nutrient-dense meals that support new mothers during the postpartum period.
Can you give recipe/menu examples?
Every month, I thoughtfully create a postpartum menu, selecting recipes that are nourishing, comforting, and nutrient-dense, designed with the unique needs of new mothers in mind. I focus on seasonal produce when possible and whole foods to support healing and energy during the postpartum period.
To see the monthly menus visit: https://www.facebook.com/motheressence/photos_albums