You might be wondering, what’s this 555 rule all about? It’s a super simple guideline to help you focus on your recovery during those first few weeks after giving birth. Basically, it breaks down your recovery time into three phases: the first 5 days in bed, the next 5 days around the bed, and the final 5 days near the bed. It’s designed to give you the downtime you need to heal and bond with your baby.

Let’s break down what the 555 rule is all about, why it’s beneficial, and how you can incorporate it into your postpartum routine. 

TABLE OF CONTENT How to follow the 555 Postpartum Rule? 1. The First 5 Days: In Bed 2. The Next 5 Days: Around the Bed 3. The Final 5 Days: Near the Bed What Are The Benefits of Following the 555 Rule in Postpartum?

How to follow the 555 Postpartum Rule?

You’ve probably heard a lot of advice about what to do (and what not to do) after giving birth, but we’re going to focus on a simple yet powerful guideline that can make a huge difference: the 555 rule.

The 555 postpartum rule is all about giving yourself the time and space you need to heal and adjust to life with your newborn.

1. The First 5 Days: In Bed

The idea here is to spend the first 5 days after birth in bed. Yes, you heard that right—in bed. This is your time to really rest and let your body start healing. Think of it as your excuse to stay cozy under the covers, binge-watch your favorite shows, and snuggle with your newborn.

This is your time to really hit the pause button and focus on resting up. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Embrace the Rest

This is the golden time for recovery. Take it seriously and let yourself enjoy the chance to rest. Stay in bed as much as possible. It might sound like a lot, but your body just went through a major event, and it needs time to heal. You deserve this time to rest and let your body start healing. Plus, you’ve got a cute little bundle of joy to cuddle with—what’s better than that?

• Create a Cozy Nest

Make your bed as comfy as possible. Think fluffy pillows, warm blankets, and maybe even a favorite stuffed animal. Set up a little station next to you with all the essentials—water, snacks, your phone, your postpartum kit and anything else you might need.  

• Get Some Help

Don’t be shy about asking for help. This is the time to lean on your partner, family, or friends. Whether it’s bringing you meals, helping with the baby, or just keeping you company, having a support system can make those first few days a lot easier.

• Bond with Your Baby

These first few days are perfect for bonding with your newborn. Skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding, and just staring at that adorable little face are all great ways to connect with your baby. Plus, can be super relaxing for both of you.

• Keep Hydrated and Nourished

Remember to stay hydrated and eat well. Your body needs the fuel to heal and keep up with all those new mom duties. Keep a water bottle and healthy snacks close by so you’re always ready to refuel.

• Don’t Stress About the Housework

Seriously, let the chores wait. The dishes, laundry, and tidying up can all take a backseat for now. Your main job is to rest and recover. If you really can’t ignore the mess, delegate! Your support system is there to help with this stuff.

2. The Next 5 Days: Around the Bed

After those initial 5 days, you can start moving a little more, but without going to far. This phase consists of staying close to bed. You can do some light activities or go to the living room for a change of scenery, but the key is to stay close to your resting place and don't overdo it. Here’s how to handle these next 5 days as you start to gently ramp up your activity:

• Start Moving Slowly

You’re still taking it easy, but it’s time to stretch your legs a bit. Start by getting out of bed for short periods. Maybe you’ll make it to the couch or take a little stroll around the house. The key here is to move slowly and listen to your body. If you’re feeling up to it, you might even go outside for some fresh air.

• Do Light Activities

Think of this as your “gentle activity” phase. You can start doing small, manageable tasks, like sorting through baby clothes or doing a quick tidy-up. Keep it low-key, though—no heavy lifting or strenuous chores. This is about helping you feel a bit more normal while still prioritizing rest.

• Keep the Rest a Priority

Even though you’re moving around more, you’re still mostly focused on rest. Take lots of breaks and don’t push yourself too hard. If you start feeling tired, go back to bed or sit down and relax. It’s all about finding a balance between getting a bit more active and not overdoing it.

• Enjoy Some Change of Scenery

Moving around the house can be a nice change of pace. A new view, even if it’s just from a different spot in your home, can help lift your spirits. Set up a comfy spot in the living room or another cozy area where you can relax and enjoy a bit of variety in your surroundings.

• Continue to Ask for Help

Let your partner, family, or friends pitch in with baby care, meals, or just some company while you’re around the bed.

3. The Final 5 Days: Near the Bed

For the last 5 days of the rule, you can gradually increase your activity level, but still take it easy. This phase is all about staying near the bed. You can start doing a bit more around the house, but remember, rest is still your best friend.

Here’s how to make the most of this last stretch as you ease back into a more active routine:

• Gradually Increase Activity

During these final 5 days, you can start doing a bit more around the house. Maybe you’ll tackle some light chores or take a slightly longer stroll. Just remember, you’re still staying close to your bed or resting spot. Think of it as getting back into your daily rhythm without going overboard.

• Balance Rest and Activity

Now’s the time to find your balance between activity and rest. You can start to mix in some light household tasks, but make sure to listen to your body. If you start to feel tired or sore, it’s totally okay to take a break and relax. Your body is still recovering, so keep up those power naps and comfy rests.

• Celebrate Your Progress

This is a great time to celebrate how far you’ve come in your recovery journey. You’re transitioning back to a more active routine, and that’s something to feel good about. Take a moment to appreciate the progress you’ve made and the care you’ve given yourself.

• Keep the Support Coming

You’re still in the home stretch, so don’t be shy about asking for help when you need it. Whether it’s with baby care, meals, or just having a chat, having support around can make these final days easier. Everyone benefits from a little extra help during recovery!

• Focus on Self-Care

Continue prioritizing self-care. Take time for yourself, even if it’s just a few quiet moments with a book, a relaxing bath, or meditation. You’ve been working hard to heal and adjust, so pamper yourself a bit. This is also a great time to establish some new routines that will support your well-being going forward.

What Are The Benefits of Following the 555 Rule in Postpartum?

You’ve navigated through the 555 rule, and now you’re probably wondering, why stick to this rule? Let’s talk about the benefits that come with giving yourself time to rest and recover:

1. Faster Healing

By sticking to the 5-5-5 rule, you’re giving your body the chance to heal properly. Resting up during the first 10 days helps reduce the risk of complications and speeds up recovery. You’ll be amazed at how much better you feel when you give yourself the time to truly rest.

2. Reduced Stress

The early days of motherhood can be overwhelming, and trying to do too much too soon can add extra stress. The 555 rule helps you ease into your new routine, reducing the pressure to be supermom right away. It’s okay to take it slow and focus on what really matters—caring for yourself and your baby.

3. Better Bonding

Resting and being close to your baby during these early days helps with bonding. You get more quality time to snuggle, feed, and connect with your little one. This early bonding can strengthen your relationship and make those first few weeks even more special.

4. Improved Energy Levels

Following the 555 rule means you’re not burning out too quickly. As you gradually increase your activity, you’ll build up your energy levels without overdoing it. This balanced approach helps you feel more energized and ready to take on the new challenges of motherhood.

5. Smoother Transition

Gradually increasing your activity helps ease you back into your normal routine without overwhelming yourself. The 555 rule supports a smoother transition from postpartum recovery to managing daily life with a new baby.

 

Remember, this is your recovery journey, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. The 555 rule is a helpful guideline, but it’s important to listen to your body and adapt as needed. 

So, give yourself permission to rest and don’t stress about being supermom right away. You’re doing an incredible job, and your body deserves this time to heal.