When a baby is born, everyone celebrates. The little one becomes the centre of attention. But in all this excitement, one person is often forgotten – the mother.

I’m Dr. Lavanya, an obstetrician and women’s health specialist. And if there’s one thing I’ve seen over the years, it’s this: postnatal care in India is not given the importance it deserves.

• The Forgotten Phase

Once delivery is over, many mothers go home and are expected to “adjust.” They are told to feed the baby, take rest, and move on. But post-delivery, a woman goes through many physical and emotional changes.

Some struggle with:

• Breastfeeding pain or low milk supply
• Body pain or stitches
• Hair fall and body image issues
• Fatigue, mood swings, and sometimes even postnatal depression

Sadly, most mothers don’t talk about it. And even if they do, they’re told: “It’s normal. You’re a mother now.”

But this is not okay. Mothers need care too.

• Why Postnatal Care Is Important

The body needs time to heal. So does the mind.
Proper postnatal care includes:

• Guidance for breastfeeding
• Nutrition plans for healing and energy
• Massage, rest, and gentle exercise
• Emotional support and mental health check-ins

I’ve met many women who cried silently for weeks after delivery—feeling guilty, tired, or unsure. With the right help, most of these issues can be solved early.

• A New Vision: Orya

That’s why I started Orya—a new concept in India focused on holistic postnatal care. Imagine a place where new mothers can stay for a few days in a calm, medically supervised space. Here, she gets:

• Lactation help
• Proper food
• Emotional guidance
• Support for physical healing

Think of it as a “babymoon” – a short break where the mother is looked after, not just the baby.

For the Whole Family: Postnatal care also means helping fathers and families understand the mother’s needs. Many women just need someone to ask, “How are you?” and truly listen. Let’s make that common.

In Conclusion

To every new mother out there: you are important. Your body just created life. You deserve love, care, and proper rest. Do not feel shy or guilty to ask for help.

And to every family: take care of the new mother as much as the baby. Because when the mother is healthy and happy, the whole home blossoms.

Let’s change how we look at postnatal care—from survival to support. The journey of motherhood doesn’t end at delivery. It only begins.