Becoming a parent is one of life’s most transformative experiences—and it’s also one of the most demanding, both physically and emotionally. While the conversation around postpartum health is growing, many of the statistics may still surprise even the most prepared parents. From nutrient depletion to skin sensitivities in babies, these lesser-known realities of the postpartum period deserve more attention, especially when it comes to solutions that support both mom and baby.
Here are four eye-opening postpartum statistics, what they really mean, and what we can do about them, plus insights from clinical practice and emerging research.
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1. Up to 76% of new moms may experience postpartum depletion
If you’ve ever wondered why you’re still exhausted, foggy, or emotionally drained long after giving birth, you’re not alone. According to recent estimates, up to 76% of mothers experience postpartum depletion, a prolonged state of physical and emotional burnout linked to nutrient deficiencies, hormonal shifts, and the intense demands of caring for a newborn.
In my clinical experience, postpartum depletion is often misunderstood or even dismissed as “normal new mom fatigue.” But for many it’s more than just being tired, it can involve brain fog, hair loss, anxiety, low libido, and a sense of feeling disconnected from oneself.
When working with clients, I often extend "postpartum care" into the first full year after birth or up to six months post breastfeeding. The idea that recovery ends at 6 weeks is outdated and unsupported by the lived experience of most mothers. Ongoing nutrient repletion makes a real difference.
What to do about it:
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Rebuild nutrient stores. Many women enter pregnancy already low in key nutrients like iron, zinc, magnesium, and omega-3s. Continuing with a high-quality prenatal like WeNatal for Her well beyond the fourth trimester can help rebuild reserves.
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Prioritize rest and recovery. Postpartum isn’t just a healing phase, it’s a rebuilding phase. Protect your sleep, reduce overstimulation, and ask for support when you need it.
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Track symptoms. Using a journal or app to monitor energy, mood, and cycle return can help identify lingering deficiencies or hormonal imbalances.
2. 10–20% of children worldwide experience eczema
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, affects 10–20% of children globally. It often begins in infancy and can significantly affect quality of life, sleep, and parent stress levels. While genetics play a role, so do environmental exposures, maternal diet, and gut health.
The skin barrier in infants is still developing, which makes them especially vulnerable to irritants in fabrics, detergents, wipes, and even food proteins transmitted via breast milk.
I often recommend a dual approach: topical skin support and internal support via nutrients and gut health. Many clients see eczema improvement in their children after addressing their own postpartum diet and inflammation levels.
Why we love Kudos for eczema-prone skin: Kudos diapers are lined with 100% cotton, which is naturally soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic. This cotton-first design reduces friction and helps maintain a healthy skin barrier, especially important for babies prone to eczema or other sensitivities. With plant-based materials and no added lotions, dyes, or fragrances, Kudos provides peace of mind for parents looking to minimize triggers while keeping baby comfortable.
What to do about it:
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Feed the skin from within. Emerging research links eczema to omega-3 deficiencies, vitamin D insufficiency, and gut dysbiosis. Prenatal and postnatal supplements that include omega-3 DHA, like WeNatal’s Omega DHA+, can support both mom and baby’s inflammatory balance.
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Use ultra-gentle skincare. Avoid synthetic fragrances, preservatives, and sulfates. Stick with eczema-safe products and minimal-ingredient balms.
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Watch the detergent. Even "clean" laundry products can be irritating. Choose free-and-clear options and avoid fabric softeners altogether.
3. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to postpartum depression
Emerging research shows that vitamin D deficiency may play a significant role in postpartum depression (PPD). A 2023 meta-analysis found that women with low serum vitamin D levels were significantly more likely to develop PPD compared to those with sufficient levels.
Vitamin D is crucial not only for immune regulation and mood stability, but also for gene expression, hormone signaling, and brain function. And yet, deficiency is widespread, especially among women of color, those living in northern climates, or those who spend limited time in sunlight.
When reviewing labs postpartum, I often find vitamin D levels hovering below optimal, even in women who took prenatal vitamins during pregnancy. Boosting vitamin D is one of the first steps I take to support mood, immune resilience, and mental clarity in postpartum clients.
What to do about it:
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Get your levels tested. A simple 25(OH)D blood test can identify deficiency.
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Supplement smartly. Look for a prenatal that includes clinically effective doses of vitamin D3. WeNatal for Her contains 4,000 IU of vitamin D3, which is often the therapeutic dose needed to restore and maintain sufficiency during the postpartum period.
4. 50% of babies experience diaper rash
Despite parents’ best efforts, up to 50% of infants will experience diaper rash at some point, particularly in the first year. These red, inflamed patches aren’t just uncomfortable, they can be distressing for both baby and caregiver.
While occasional irritation is expected, frequent diaper rashes may be a sign of sensitivity to ingredients in wipes or diapers, disrupted skin barrier function, or even imbalances in baby's microbiome. I’ve seen major improvements in recurrent diaper rash just by switching to more skin-friendly products. The synergy between a clean, breathable diaper (like Kudos) and an anti-inflammatory maternal diet can significantly reduce skin flares in babies.
Why we trust Kudos: Kudos is the first disposable diaper lined with 100% cotton, not plastic, making it both gentle on baby’s skin and better for the environment. Their diapers are free from harsh chemicals, lotions, and fragrances, and the plant-based materials allow the skin to breathe, which is key in preventing irritation. When a product is both high-performing and backed by thoughtful, transparent ingredient choices, it earns our trust.
What to do about it:
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Choose barrier-friendly products. Look for diapers and wipes that are free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes. Brands like Kudos use plant-based, hypoallergenic materials designed to be gentle on baby’s delicate skin.
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Let skin breathe. Give your baby some diaper-free time each day to allow the area to dry and air out.
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Check for food sensitivities. If diaper rash is chronic or persistent, it may be worth exploring food sensitivities (especially in breastfed babies) or yeast overgrowth with your pediatrician.
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WeNatal x Kudos: A smarter approach to postpartum support
The realities of postpartum life—depletion, mood changes, baby skin issues—are complex, but they don’t have to feel overwhelming. When moms are supported with nutritional care from the inside out, and babies are cared for with skin-safe, gentle essentials, the ripple effect on health and wellbeing is profound.
This is why a collaboration between WeNatal, a science-backed prenatal supplement company, and Kudos, a trusted brand for plant-based diapers and wipes, makes so much sense. Together, these brands are redefining postpartum care: nourishing moms at a cellular level while protecting baby’s delicate skin from day one.
Whether you’re navigating postpartum anxiety, diaper rash, or just trying to feel like yourself again, having the right tools, from the nutrients you take to the diapers you use, can make all the difference. Kudos is generously offering our WeNatal community 15% off their first diaper order by using the code WENATAL at checkout.
A note from WeNatal on supporting the postpartum journey
At WeNatal, we believe that postpartum care should be proactive, empowering, and rooted in science—not just reactive or one-size-fits-all. These statistics reveal just how common nutrient depletion, mood disorders, and skin sensitivities are after birth, and why comprehensive support is essential.
WeNatal for Her and Omega DHA+ were designed to go beyond preconception and pregnancy support, it's a powerful postnatal formula with therapeutic doses of:
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Vitamin D3 to support mood and immune health
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Methylated B vitamins for energy and mental clarity
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Choline and Omega-3s for baby’s brain development and mom’s nervous system
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Iron and Zinc to help rebuild after blood loss and meet breastfeeding demands
You’re not just recovering, you’re rebuilding, and with the right nutrients, as well as a little help from clean, baby-safe products like those from Kudos, you can move through the postpartum season feeling more nourished, resilient, and supported.
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References
Apostolidou I, Baloukas M, Tsamesidis I. Relationship Between Vitamin D Deficiency and Postpartum Depression. J Pers Med. 2025;15(7):290. Published 2025 Jul 4. doi:10.3390/jpm15070290
Baattaiah BA, Alharbi MD, Aldhahi MI, Khan F. Factors associated with postpartum fatigue: an exploration of the moderating role of resilience. Front Public Health. 2024;12:1394380. Published 2024 Jun 14. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2024.1394380
Benitez Ojeda AB, Mendez MD. Diaper Dermatitis. [Updated 2023 Jul 3]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559067/
Langan SM, Mulick AR, Rutter CE, et al. Trends in eczema prevalence in children and adolescents: A Global Asthma Network Phase I Study. Clin Exp Allergy. 2023;53(3):337-352. doi:10.1111/cea.14276
Peroni DG, Hufnagl K, Comberiati P, Roth-Walter F. Lack of iron, zinc, and vitamins as a contributor to the etiology of atopic diseases. Front Nutr. 2023;9:1032481. Published 2023 Jan 9. doi:10.3389/fnut.2022.1032481
