Did you know that properly recovering after giving birth is just as important as the birth itself? The 555 postpartum rule is here to help: 5 days in bed, 5 days on the bed, 5 days around the bed. It’s a simple, loving way to give your body and mind the time they truly need to heal. In this blog, you'll learn why rest is so important, how to put this into practice, and how to deal with the challenges that often come with it.
What is the 555 postpartum rule?
Super simple: 5 days in bed, 5 days on the bed, 5 days around the bed.
This rule comes from traditional forms of postpartum care (think Chinese or Ayurvedic traditions) and helps your body and mind recover after birth.
5 days in bed
The first five days are all about rest. Not a little bit of rest—real rest. Lying down, sleeping, snuggling with your baby, letting yourself be taken care of.
Your body is healing from an enormous transformation: birth. If you've had a vaginal birth, it's essential to cool the vaginal area during this period using Cool Couchie pads. In our blog, you'll find out why cooling after birth feels so good—and why it's so beneficial for your recovery. Give yourself the rest and healing you deserve. Think: postpartum retreat vibes, but at home.
5 days on the bed
Starting to feel a bit better? These next five days are for sitting up a bit more—maybe in bed, maybe on the couch.
You can cuddle your baby, maybe spend some quiet time with your other child(ren) if you have them. But still: no rushing, no overdoing it. Rest is still your number one priority.
5 days around the bed
Now you can slowly start moving more. Maybe walk around the room, fold a bit of laundry, or take a short stroll through the house. Just do what feels right—but keep listening to your body. There’s no rush. Go at your own pace.
Why is the 555 postpartum rule so valuable?
Because we live in a world where everything needs to go fast—including postpartum recovery. But you and your baby deserve a soft landing.
The 555 rule:
- helps prevent physical complications (like infections or exhaustion)
- supports stronger bonding with your baby
- gives you mental space to adjust to your new role
- makes you more resilient in the long run
It’s not a strict rulebook, but a gentle reminder to slow down.
And of course—you can adapt it. Maybe 335 feels more realistic for your situation. That’s perfectly okay.
“But I have other kids / no help at home!”
We get it. These are the most common struggles moms share when trying to follow the 555 rule:
- “I feel guilty when I do nothing.”
- “I don’t have anyone to help me.”
- “I feel like I need to get back to normal ASAP.”
Sound familiar? Then you’re probably the mom who needs this rest the most.
And no—resting doesn’t make you weak. It makes you wise.
Tips to make the 555 postpartum rule work
- Ask for help. Your partner, family, friends—let them know what you need.
- Plan ahead. Think freezer meals, postpartum care, and downtime.
- Let go of the guilt. You’re not being lazy. You’re healing.
- Talk about it. With your midwife, your doula, or other moms.
Just remember this: the 555 rule gives you space for you
Your postpartum recovery is not a race. You have nothing to prove.
The 555 postpartum rule isn’t there to limit you—it’s there to give you space.
Space to land. To enjoy. And to care gently for both yourself and your baby.
Give yourself those 15 days. You truly deserve them.
And hey—send this blog to your partner, so they’re in the loop and can support you with this too.