Julianna and Luca's Slow Postpartum Story
In this episode, I’m joined by Julianna Werner of postpartum.se (Stockholm, Sweden). During this inspiring chat, Julianna shares her two contrasting postpartum experiences—her first with little planning and a lot of instability, and her second, intentionally designed around rest, nourishment, and support. We talk about what truly helps in the tender weeks after birth, and why practical help (meals, tidy spaces, partner support) is just as vital as emotional care. Some of the topics we cover include Two contrasting postpartums: a beautiful home birth followed by shock, homesickness, a UTI, and housing upheaval—then a second, planned experience anchored in rest, food, and aligned support.Planning differently the second time: an unassisted birth with on-call midwives for immediate postpartum checks, plus a clear plan for the first hours and days.Food as medicine: a custom postpartum meal plan (bone broths, congee, soft veg, porridges, electrolytes) to prevent constipation, protect the pelvic floor, and stabilise energy and mood.Support that actually supports: how visitors can celebrate the mother and baby while taking on chores—without overlooking the simple connection.Nutritional testing & recovery: why checking labs in pregnancy, ~6 weeks, and ~1 year postpartum can guide replenishment and long-term healing.Top tips for parents & birth workers: stock freezer meals; prioritise oxytocin-boosting rest and warmth; secure practical help for the home and the partner.“Food should be everyone’s focus during postpartum—having nourishing meals ready makes you feel safe, regulates your nervous system, and supports true recovery.” - Julianna WernerMentioned in this episodeJulianna Werner — postpartum.se (Stockholm): in-home care focused on nourishing foods, belly binding, sitz baths/steams, and deep listening. She also runs a one-year postpartum doula training (in Swedish).Jojo’s free guidesSix Secrets to a Slow Postpartum (for expectant/new parents)Five Ways to Holistically Support Postpartum Families for Doulas & Perinatal Professionals.