What Is The 555 Rule For Newborns? Best Guide

Q: Do I have to follow it exactly?

Nope! It's a framework — not a strict rule. The goal is to encourage more rest and less pressure . If you can only manage 2 days in bed or need to adjust it for your lifestyle (e.g., other children, work, etc.), that’s okay.

Q: How do I get help during the 555 period?

It’s important to reach out for help during this time: Ask your partner to pitch in with tasks like cleaning, cooking, or taking care of other children. Invite friends or family to assist with daily chores or grocery runs. Consider hiring a postpartum doula if available, or using services like meal delivery.

Contents

1 What is the 555 rule Postpartum?
2 Pros and Cons of 555 Postpartum Rule
- - 2.0.1 Pros
  - 2.0.2 Cons
3 Balanced Approach Suggestion:
4 FAQs

What is the 555 rule Postpartum?

The 5-5-5 Postpartum Rule:

5 days in the bed
5 days on the bed
5 days near the bed

This adds up to about 15 days (or more) of intentional rest and recovery after childbirth.

Here’s the breakdown:

First 5 days — “In the bed”
Stay mostly in bed, resting as much as possible. Let others help with the baby, meals, and housework.
Next 5 days — “On the bed”
You can sit up, maybe move around a little more, but still keep activity minimal. Focus on feeding and bonding with the baby.

Final 5 days — “Near the bed”
Start gently walking around the room or home, but still take it easy. No heavy lifting or intense tasks.

Why it matters:

Promotes physical recovery (especially if you had a tear, C-section, or traumatic birth)
Supports mental/emotional healing

Strengthens bonding and breastfeeding
Can reduce risks like postpartum hemorrhage, infection, or burnout

Bonus tip:

Even if 15 days sounds impossible, the principle is to slow down, ask for help, and prioritize rest — your body just did something incredible.

what is the 555 rule for breast milk — **Image source:** Daisy Doula Birth Services

Pros and Cons of 555 Postpartum Rule

Pros

Shifts the burden away from the idea that a new mom needs to “bounce back” immediately.
Reminds new moms it’s okay to ask for help from a partner, family, or community.

It aligns with the natural need to rest and nest.
Many cultures encourage similar postpartum traditions — this rule brings that wisdom into a modern context.
Offers quiet time for bonding, skin-to-skin contact, and breastfeeding without pressure.

Minimizing stress in the early days may help reduce the risk of postpartum depression or anxiety.
Reduces risk of complications like postpartum hemorrhage, infection, or pelvic floor issues.
Rest allows your body to recover from childbirth, especially important after a vaginal tear, episiotomy, or C-section.

Cons

Complete bed rest for too long could increase risk of blood clots or stiffness — gentle movement is usually encouraged unless medically restricted.
May feel “lazy” (even though it’s not!) if not mentally prepared to slow down.
Some moms may feel uncomfortable resting for that long — whether due to cultural norms, guilt, or a personal need to be active.

Too much time “in” can contribute to loneliness or feeling trapped, especially if mom thrives on social connection or movement.
Single parents or moms with other young kids may struggle to follow it fully.
Many mothers don’t have access to support systems or paid leave to rest for 15 days.

Balanced Approach Suggestion:

Instead of rigidly following “5-5-5,” you could treat it as a framework, not a rule:

Prioritize rest over routine.
Accept help when offered.

Let your body and instincts guide what you’re ready for — day by day.

what is the 555 rule — **Image source:** BabyCenter India

FAQs

Do I have to follow it exactly?

Nope! It’s a framework — not a strict rule. The goal is to encourage more rest and less pressure. If you can only manage 2 days in bed or need to adjust it for your lifestyle (e.g., other children, work, etc.), that’s okay.

Why is this rule important?

After childbirth, your body needs time to heal. This rule emphasizes rest to reduce the risk of complications, promote physical and emotional healing, and allow for bonding with your baby. It helps you recover from the physical toll of labor and delivery while also giving your mind and emotions space to adjust.

Is this safe after a C-section?

Yes — in fact, it’s especially helpful after a C-section. You’ll need more rest than usual, and this framework helps protect your incision, reduce swelling, and prevent complications. Of course, always follow your doctor’s advice first.

Can I take short walks during the 15 days?

Yes, if you’re feeling up to it and your body allows. Short walks around the house or yard are often encouraged to prevent stiffness and improve circulation. Just don’t push through pain or fatigue.

How do I get help during the 555 period?

It’s important to reach out for help during this time:
Ask your partner to pitch in with tasks like cleaning, cooking, or taking care of other children.
Invite friends or family to assist with daily chores or grocery runs.
Consider hiring a postpartum doula if available, or using services like meal delivery.