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Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC

You planned your birth team...but what about your postpartum team?

Published 5 days ago • 3 min read

When we talk about birth preparation, building your birth team is always one of the first conversations we have - it’s even the focus of the very first module in my birth prep course. During pregnancy, so much energy goes into assembling that team: your medical provider, doula, fitness coach, mental health support, and more. And that attention is well-deserved. But here’s where I see a gap - postpartum is rarely given the same respect. The weeks and months after birth are one of the most transformational seasons of your life - physically, emotionally, and relationally. Yet most people arrive there without a plan, without a team, and without the support they truly need.

We can do better. And it starts before baby arrives.

Building Your Postpartum Team

Just like birth, postpartum deserves a circle of people who make you feel safe, seen, and supported. You should not be navigating this season alone. Here’s who might be on your postpartum team:

  • Life partner/spouse
  • Postpartum doula
  • Midwife or OB/GYN
  • Mental health provider
  • Pelvic health provider
  • Chiropractor
  • Postpartum rehab/fitness specialist
  • Lactation specialist
  • Registered dietitian or nutritionist
  • Supportive friends and family
  • Community members

The beauty of starting this search during pregnancy is that you can begin building these relationships before you need them most.

At a Minimum, I Recommend These Three:

1. A Medical Provider - ideally one who sees you more than once. The standard 6-week postpartum visit is not enough. If possible, seek out a provider who offers more frequent postpartum check-ins. Out of hospital midwives typically offer multiple postpartum visits. Many provide these services even if they weren’t your delivery provider.

2. A Mental Health Provider - and schedule it now. ACOG (the governing body for OB/GYNs) recommends a mental health visit at 3 weeks postpartum for all women who give birth. Book this appointment in advance. You can always cancel if you don’t need it, but having it on the calendar means you won’t have to scramble during an already vulnerable time. If you need referrals - please let me know! Postpartum Support International is a great place to look for support.

3. Supportive Friends and Family - have them prepped and ready. Support looks different for everyone. It might be a meal drop-off, help with dishes, or a DoorDash gift card. You may not know yet what you’ll need and that’s okay. What matters is asking your people now if they’re willing to show up, and sharing what helpful support looks like for you. You can send them a simple message during your third trimester asking if they can plan to check in and offer tangible support once your baby arrives.

Planning for postpartum isn’t pessimistic - it’s one of the most loving things you can do for yourself and your baby.

If you have questions or want personalized guidance on building your team, reply to this email - I’d love to help. I’m currently accepting digital birth prep and coaching clients, and consultations are always free. You can schedule a free consult here.​
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With peace and love,

Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC, Doula, Coach
​Doc Halley Solutions​

Follow me on Instagram + TikTok for more content - ellynhalley.dc

In person chiropractic care! You can find me at 1500 Green Bay St, La Crosse WI 54601 within the same space as the Parenting Place and The Motus Project. I am excited to offer in person care to women in the Coulee Region, and offer hybrid care - in person + online. You can book your first appointment or schedule a consult below!

If you're looking for an "all in one" program that includes a prenatal exercise program, birth education, pelvic prep + mobility, nutrition information, and more - combined with regular support + check ins - I have you covered. Check out my Empowered Pregnancy program for incredible prenatal support.

Looking for more support around exercise, pelvic health, and nutrition (and birth prep if you're pregnant!)? Apply for 1:1 coaching with me:

Looking for a comprehensive birth education that covers more than birth? Join Meghan Tomlinson (Rooted Birth + Family) and I on Sunday, March 15th 2026 10a-3p in West Salem, WI at Coulee Health. Class includes a spot for you + a partner. Light snacks + refreshments provided. You will receive a workbook + 5 hours packed full of valuable information! Register here​

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**Disclaimer: The content in this email is not intended to be medical advice. The content here is for informational purposes only. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.

2172 Diagonal Rd, La Crosse, WI 54601
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Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC

Chiropractor, coach, doula. Empowering women through all of life's transitions.

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