Postpartum isn’t just diapers and sleepy snuggles—it’s a whirlwind of recovery, sensory overwhelm, and navigating everyone’s opinions when you barely have time to shower. This week on the blog, we’re talking about what really happens after birth, why the “wipe that broke you” moment is more common than you think, and how postpartum doula support can make it all feel a little less impossible. If you're feeling touched out, burnt out, or just plain overwhelmed—you’re not alone. And you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.

When you're parenting in the thick of it — sleep deprivation, sensory overload, and endless to-do lists — connection can quietly slip to the bottom of the pile. A weekly partner check-in isn't just another thing to schedule. It's a lifeline. A gentle, low-pressure way to stay aligned, reduce resentment, and actually feel like you're on the same team. Especially if one or both of you is neurodivergent, these moments of structure and clarity can make the difference between survival mode and feeling truly supported.

This isn’t about fixing everything. It’s about having space to be heard — even when the baby’s crying and the laundry’s still on the stairs.

If You Have ADHD and Just Had a Baby

You are not the problem. The systems were never built for this.

You’ve just had a baby—and suddenly the mental load feels like a full-time job… that comes with no instructions, 24/7 hours, and a boss who screams at you but can’t speak.

Now add an ADHD brain to the mix. One that thrives on novelty, struggles with transitions, and gets completely sideswiped by sleep deprivation, sensory overload, and a to-do list that seems to multiply every time you blink.

If your home feels chaotic, your brain feels noisy, and you're doing a hundred things but finishing none of them… you're not alone. You're navigating a chapter that demands a level of executive function most people don't realize they're using. And you're doing it while parenting a newborn.

There’s nothing wrong with your brain. But there might be a better way to support it.

Being a parent is never a one-size-fits-all experience—and for neurodivergent parents, the barriers can be invisible, unexpected, and exhausting. From medical systems that aren’t built with our brains in mind, to parenting expectations that assume we all function the same way, it can feel like you’re navigating an entirely different landscape.

In this post, we’re naming those barriers, validating the very real challenges, and sharing tools that make parenting feel more accessible—on your terms. Whether you’ve got ADHD, autism, sensory processing differences, or just know that you think a little differently, this one’s for you.

A tired but smiling parent cradles their newborn while attending a virtual postpartum support session on a laptop—capturing the real-life mix of baby snuggles and much-needed support.

Parenting is an all-encompassing adventure, full of highs and lows, joy and exhaustion, and countless unexpected moments. When you’re a neurodivergent parent—whether you have ADHD, autism, or another neurodivergence—those experiences can take on an extra layer of complexity. From sensory overload to executive function challenges, parenting through a neurodivergent lens requires unique strategies, a deep well of self-compassion, and a support system that truly gets it.

Neurodivergent parenting isn’t about fitting into a mold—it’s about creating a rhythm that works for you and your family. Some days, that might mean using visual schedules, having a ‘low-demand’ parenting day, or practicing co-regulation with your child. Your neurodivergence isn’t something to overcome; it’s a perspective to embrace. You are a good parent. You are doing enough. And your neurodivergence is not a barrier—it’s a beautiful part of who you are.

Breastfeeding, Bottle-Feeding, and Sensory Sensitivities: What Neurodivergent Parents Need to Know

Feeding your baby is an essential part of early parenthood, but for neurodivergent parents, it can bring unique challenges. Sensory sensitivities, executive function struggles, and overstimulation can all impact the feeding experience—whether you're breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or doing a combination of both.

If textures, sounds, or the unpredictability of latching feel overwhelming, you’re not alone. There are ways to adapt feeding routines to support your sensory needs while ensuring your baby is nourished. From creating a low-demand feeding setup to exploring alternative feeding methods like exclusive pumping or formula, finding what works for you is key.

At TENDER.LY, we believe that feeding should be a sustainable and supportive experience for both parent and baby. Whether you're looking for strategies to manage sensory overload, tools to simplify feeding schedules, or reassurance that your choices are valid, this guide is here to help.

Read the full post for practical tips on navigating feeding as a neurodivergent parent.

Postpartum can be sensory chaos—sudden noises, constant touch, and a never-ending mental to-do list. For autistic and ADHD parents, this overload can make recovery feel even harder. But what if you could create a sensory-friendly postpartum nest that actually supports your nervous system?

From reducing visual clutter to setting up a low-stimulation sleep space, this guide will help you build a postpartum plan that works for YOUR brain—not against it.

💡 Want a simple, neurodivergent-friendly roadmap to postpartum? Download my free guide here!

Wondering what a doula actually does? Many people assume doulas are only for home births or unmedicated labor, but the truth is, they support all birth choices and provide invaluable postpartum care. From emotional and physical support to practical guidance, learn how a doula can make your journey into parenthood smoother and more empowering.

Curious about waterbirth? 🌊 Discover the key differences between home and hospital settings, the benefits like pain relief and shorter labor, and how to ensure safety. Ask your healthcare provider about their experience, facilities, and emergency protocols to see if waterbirth is right for you.

Explore more in our full guide!

Preparing for life with a newborn can feel overwhelming, but a doula can help ease the transition. From creating a postpartum plan to organizing your home and offering emotional support, learn how doula care during pregnancy sets the foundation for a smoother journey into parenthood.

Feeling overwhelmed during your baby’s first year? Parental burnout is real, but there are ways to reset and reclaim your energy. Discover five practical tips, from reframing expectations to leaning on your support system, to help you thrive in this transformative season of life.

It all begins with an idea.