Do you ever feel tired and wired? Can you relate to feeling sucked dry, or that you will never feel normal again? 

It’s no secret that motherhood is both beautiful and challenging. From the physical strain of pregnancy and childbirth to months of sleepless nights, the constant responsibility of caring for a little one, and the hours spent breastfeeding — it's no wonder that some days can leave you feeling drained. 

Doctors have spent years studying the lasting effects of pregnancy and childbirth on mothers, and have identified a condition that many of us experience but isn’t often discussed: postnatal depletion.

What is Postnatal Depletion?

During pregnancy, a woman’s body provides vital nutrients to support her growing baby, which can deplete essential reserves of iron, vitamin B12, omega-3s, and more. Along with these physical changes, the brain undergoes reprogramming to meet the needs of the baby, often leaving mothers feeling emotionally and physically drained.

On top of that, the demands of sleepless nights, the unrelenting responsibilities of motherhood, and the lack of societal support can take a significant toll. Our culture, with its constant push to "do it all," adds even more pressure, encouraging moms to juggle endless tasks, recover quickly from childbirth, and manage it all with little to no support.

It’s no surprise that many mothers struggle with lasting fatigue, poor memory, brain fog, low energy, emotional instability, and a sense of isolation.

If you can relate, please know you’re not alone! These symptoms are not just a normal part of being a parent, but may be part of a larger, physiological issue that many mothers experience.

Why Does It Matter?

Up to 50% of mothers may experience postnatal depletion to some degree, and its impact can last for years. We're talking more than just “baby brain” or exhaustion — it’s a biochemical imbalance that affects not just your energy levels, but your hormones, mood, and overall well-being. It’s often misunderstood or even ignored by society, where the focus tends to be solely on the baby after birth. But if we as mothers don’t get the support needed, our health — and the well-being of our families — suffers.

How to Begin Your Recovery

The good news? There’s hope! There are steps you can take to feel like yourself again. Doctors recommend focusing on four key areas of health:

• Sleep
• Purpose
• Activity
• Nutrition

Start by addressing any nutrient deficiencies (like iron, zinc, and B12), getting proper support (physical, emotional, and mental), and taking small steps toward healthier habits. Nutrient-dense foods and proper supplementation (like DHA) are essential in rebuilding energy and brain health.

Next, once you’ve started to replenish your body, it’s time to optimize sleep, engage in gentle physical activities, and strengthen your relationships. Reducing stress, getting emotional support, and focusing on a balanced routine can make all the difference.

Finally, and maybe one of the most important things you can do, is recognize your purpose as a mother and a woman, find self-actualization, and embrace this new phase of life as part of your personal journey.

Reclaim Your Vitality

It’s important to remember that you are not alone in this. Postnatal depletion is common, and recovery is possible. We cannot stress enough the importance of rest, proper nutrition, and support to help you regain your energy, clarity, and sense of self. Whether it’s seeking professional guidance, asking for more support from loved ones, or prioritizing self-care, every step you take is part of your healing process.

If you’ve been feeling tired and wired or like you can never catch up, know that there is hope. The first step is acknowledging the need for support and making time for yourself.

We take postpartum seriously at Pink Stork and we're constantly striving to find ways to support our community -- we know that a standard product doesn't cover your needs. We offer scientifically-backed products with the nutrients in the amounts that YOUR body needs through each stage of life.

Have any questions about the right product for you? Email our team today: cs@pinkstork.com