A New Senate Committee Could Change Postpartum Care in Australia

This Women's Health Week, there's something genuinely worth celebrating: the Senate has agreed to establish a new Select Committee on Women's Health, and submissions are now open.

If you're reading this whilst pregnant or in early postpartum, you're not alone in wondering about this. One of the most common concerns I hear from new mothers is about their first bowel movement after birth.

Research shows that mothers who thrive postpartum aren't superhuman - they're simply better prepared. Having the right recovery tools ready before you need them can make all the difference.

When it comes to pregnancy and birth, most expectant parents spend months planning for their birth experience. But what about recovery? Your physical healing deserves the same thoughtful preparation.

Is it supposed to be this hard? It's a question most new mums ask, often to themselves in the dark of the night while feeding and settling their newborn. If you are currently in the depths of those first 72 hours, rest assured that it feels hard because it is hard.

When it comes to pregnancy and birth, most expectant parents spend months meticulously planning for their birth experience. Birth plans are created, hospitals are toured, and every detail is considered. But what about the weeks and months that follow? The postpartum period - often called the "fourth trimester" - deserves just as much attention and preparation.

Sore, cracked and irritated nipples are a common symptom in the early days of breastfeeding. However, cracked nipples are usually a sign that your baby isn’t latching correctly. Because your baby will feed frequently in the first few days and weeks (expect to feed 8-12 times in a 24 hour period), sore nipples will get progressively worse unless you seek expert advice and guidance. This is vital as nipple pain is one of the reasons why new mothers stop breastfeeding earlier than they intended.

Travel is a priority for my Australian/Fijian family. We try to get back to Fiji once a year so the boys can better understand and have a strong sense of pride in their cultural heritage. I’m also partial to a margarita by the pool.