Posted by on | Featured
Curiosity card deck_transparent

In My Own Words

thrivology

A curiosity deck for young parents about life after pregnancy and childbirth

ASK AWAY

Thrivology

Resources

News

About Us

Ask Us

Stay Inspired

Menu

Hey new parent, these cards are for you

Becoming a parent is a big deal, whether it just happened or you’re getting ready. You deserve real answers, never judgment.

This deck helps you explore what’s going on with your body, feelings, relationships, and choices after birth.

And remember: you’ve got this!


“These are the kinds of conversations I needed but didn’t always have the words for, or the safe space to explore.”

Former young parent

Curiosities, answered

These cards are for young parents who want to understand their postpartum bodies and emotions, changing relationships, and new responsibilities.

Each card deck costs $22.96 + shipping. We don’t profit—your payment just supports production and delivery.

Get YOURS

Please note: Bulk orders of 10 or more card decks receive a discount but may take longer to manufacture and ship.

Flip through the deck

Want a preview of the deck? Explore a sampling of the curiosity cards below:

Thrivology In My Own Words A Curiosity Deck for Young Parents For postpartum care & wellness
Suggested citation Natalie, P., Piper, M., Thomas, M., Garrido, M., & Sufrinko, N. (2025). In my own words: A curiosity deck for young parents [Digital flash cards]. Healthy Teen Network. www.healthyteennetwork.org/thrivology/resources/curiosity-deck This project is supported by the Office of Population Affairs (OPA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award (1 PHEPA000006-03) totaling $1,168,985 with 100 percent funded by OPA/OASH/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by OPA/OASH/HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit opa.hhs.gov.
About these cards These cards are for young parents like you, who want to understand their postpartum bodies and emotions, changing relationships, and new responsibilities. Each card begins with “I am curious about…” to help you explore real questions. These cards offer clear, supportive info—and give you the power to speak up and get the care you deserve.
How to use these cards Start wherever you are—there’s no right way to use these cards. Read them on your own or with someone you trust. Focus on what feels helpful and skip the rest. Bring questions or concerns to a trusted professional. Scan the QR code any time for extra info or resources.
Key. Each card is color-coded to match these topics, making it easy to find the ones most relevant to. you: Purple: Mental health Pink: Feeding Light blue: Body changes & healing Red: Relationships & boundaries Dark blue: Sex & intimacy This is not a complete list, as many other curiosities may come up for you, too!
Key. These cards include small icons to show the type of professional(s) they’re most connected to: Cross: Medical care: Physical healing, checkups, birth control, and baby health. Heart: Emotional support: For managing emotions and building coping tools. Arch: Home & daily life support: In-home care and meeting daily needs. Droplet: Feeding & nutrition: Breastfeeding, pumping, bottle-feeding, and food support.
Title of "Mental Health" against a purple background
Parenthood can be a whirlwind. Alongside love and joy, you might also feel stressed, sad, anxious, or not quite like yourself. Maybe it’s hard to connect, or everything just feels overwhelming. Whatever’s on your mind, you’re not alone—and there’s no single “right” way to feel. Use these cards to start real conversations with a professional, someone you trust, or other young parents.
Mental health. I am curious whether it’s common to feel happy, angry, overwhelmed, sad, guilty, or not quite myself after having a baby.
It’s typical to feel many emotions after having a baby—even joy and tiredness all in one day. You might even feel guilty for not feeling the way you thought you “should.” Talking to someone you trust can make a big difference. You can tell a therapist or social worker: “I’m doing my best, but I still feel like I’m not enough.” Or ask a peer mentor: “How did you find your new normal as a parent?” Heart icon Arch icon
Mental health. I'm curious if what I’m feeling is more than stress, like postpartum depression or anxiety.
If you’re withdrawing from loved ones, feeling disconnected, or worrying about hurting your baby, you might be experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety. You’re not alone—postpartum depression and anxiety are common for new parents, especially for young parents.1 If these feelings last or make daily life harder, tell an OB-GYN or midwife: “I think this is more than stress—can I get screened for postpartum depression or anxiety?” Cross icon Heart icon Arch icon
Mental health. I'm curious about whether it’s okay for me to feel frustrated with my baby.
It’s common to feel frustrated—you’re tired and giving so much. That doesn’t mean you don’t love your baby. It means you're human. When it feels like too much, take a break by placing your baby in a safe spot, like a crib, so you can breathe. You can ask a therapist or social worker: “What are some ways I can manage my frustration safely?” Heart icon Arch icon
Title of "Feeding" against a pink background
Feeding a baby looks different for every parent. You might breastfeed, pump, use formula, combo feed, or find another way that works for you. What matters most is choosing what feels doable, helps your baby grow, and keeps you well, too. For support, talking with a lactation consultant can help. Your OB-GYN, midwife, or WIC provider can recommend one. Also, ask them about any free formula, coupons, or breastfeeding supplies!
Feeding. I'm curious about the different options to feed my baby.
There’s no one “right” way to feed your baby—breast, formula, pumping, combo, or donor milk. Take your time, ask questions, and adjust as you go. What matters most is that your baby is fed nutritiously and you feel supported. Ask yourself: “What feels best for my body and mental health? Does my baby have specific needs? How does feeding fit into my day-to-day life?” Cross icon Arch icon Droplet icon
Feeding. I'm curious if breastfeeding can be hard or painful.
It’s common to feel some soreness, discomfort, or bleeding in the first the 1 to 2 weeks of breastfeeding. Sharp pain or cracked nipples could mean that the latch needs help. Ask a lactation consultant to check you latch or suggest feeding positions. If you notice redness, swelling, or fever, it could be inflammation or an infection.2 Reach out to an OB-GYN or family physician. Feeding should feel comfortable for you and your baby once your body adjusts. Cross icon Arch icon Droplet icon
Feeding. I'm curious about using formula to feed my baby.
Formula is a safe, healthy choice. Use ready-to-feed or mix powdered formula with clean water. No matter how they are fed, babies can grow strong and stay bonded to their parents as long as they are meeting their nutritional needs. Ask a young parent mentor or a trusted professional: “I’m considering formula—can you share any tips?” Cross icon Arch icon Droplet icon
Title "Body Changes & Healing" against a light blue background
Your body has done something incredible! You may feel pressure to “bounce back,” but healing takes time. You may have some bleeding, pain, abdominal or pelvic floor issues, or hormonal changes. Use these cards to reflect with your OB-GYN, physician, doula, home-visiting nurse, or peer mentor about recovery and what support your body might need. Remember, every journey is different, and everyone heals at a different pace.
Body changes & healing. I am curious about what to expect as my body recovers after birth.
Body changes & healing. I am curious about how to manage postpartum symptoms like bleeding, soreness, or pain.
Give yourself time and rest whenever you can. Warm baths and gentle stretches can help with soreness, and using pads (not tampons) for bleeding may feel more comfortable. If pain feels severe, gets worse, or doesn’t go away, make sure to have it checked by a clinic or medical professional! Tell your OB-GYN or midwife: “I’m having these symptoms—can you help me understand if everything is okay?” Cross icon Heart icon Arch icon
Body changes & healing. I am curious about when it’s okay to start exercising again.
Most doctors suggest waiting 4 to 6 weeks, and sometimes longer after a C-section, but it’s important to listen to your body. Gentle movement like walking or stretching can feel good as you heal. Avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise until your doctor gives the okay. Ask your home-visiting nurse, OB-GYN, or midwife: “What kind of movement is safe for me right now?” Cross icon Heart icon Arch icon
Title of "Relationships & Boundaries" against a red background
After having a baby, your needs around touch, space, sex, or connection may change. You have the right to set boundaries, say no, ask for what you need, and feel safe in all relationships—whether with a partner, your parents, friends, or others. Talk to a therapist, doula, or case worker to come up with words that feel right to navigate shifting relationships. These cards can help you reflect and start those conversations.
Relationships & boundaries. I am curious about feeling overstimulated by physical touch and needing space.
Some parents feel overstimulated or “touched out” after giving so much physically. Wanting less touch, even from people you love, doesn’t mean something is wrong. You can care about others and still need space. You might say to a friend, partner, or relative: “I love you, but I need some space right now.” A young parent mentor or therapist can also help you find the words that feel right for you.
Relationships & boundaries. I am curious about why my relationships feel different or distant after having a baby.
It’s common for relationships to shift after having a baby. You might feel disconnected from friends, family, or even your partner. That can be painful or confusing. Relationships can be like seasons—some come and go. It’s okay to outgrow people, grieve what’s changed, and want connections that match where you are now. A therapist or home-visiting nurse can help. Try: “I don’t feel like myself in this relationship—can you help me make sense of it?” Heart icon Arch icon
Relationships & boundaries. I am curious about setting boundaries with visitors, even when they mean well.
You’re allowed to set boundaries, even with people who care about you. After having a baby, your rest, healing, and bonding with your baby come first. To friends and family, it’s okay to say: “We’re not ready for visitors yet,” or “Please call before coming over.” Boundaries aren’t cruel—they protect your peace and help relationships stay healthy. People don’t have to agree, but they need to respect your “no.” Heart icon Arch icon
Sex & intimacy. I am curious about when it might be safe—or feel right—for me to have sex again.
There’s no one right time to have sex again—only if or when you feel ready. It’s also common not to feel like having sex after a baby.10 Your body and mind are healing. Physically, it’s often safe after about 6 weeks, but healing looks different for everyone. Emotionally, it may take longer. A midwife or OB-GYN can help you understand what’s safe for your body. You can ask: “Can we talk about what’s healthy or safe around sex and intimacy while I’m healing?” Cross icon Heart icon Arch icon
Sex & intimacy. I am curious about how to navigate sex and relationships as a young parent.
Your identity and experiences shape your feelings about intimacy in ways that might differ from what’s often talked about. You may notice changes in how you see your body or what you want from a partner. Honest conversations about what feels good and off-limits can help keep sex safe and fun. You deserve relationships that celebrate who you are and your parenting journey. Therapists or support groups with similar experiences can help. Cross icon Heart icon Arch icon
Sex & intimacy. I am curious about what to do if I don’t feel ready for sex, but my partner is.
It’s okay if you’re not ready for sex, even if your partner is. That doesn’t make you a bad partner or co-parent. If someone is pressuring you, acting impatient, or making you feel guilty for not wanting to have sex, that’s a red flag. To them, you could say: “I’m not ready yet. I’m focused on healing and parenting right now. I need space, and I need you to respect that.” A therapist can help you practice what you might say to a partner. Cross icon Heart icon Arch icon

Want the PDF? Download the deck & companion guide here.

The research behind the deck

Interested in the research that grounds the curiosity deck? We work hard to bring the research to you in a way that is relevant for your work with young parents in the real world. Take a look.

  1. May, S. (2022). Postpartum depression among adolescent mothers in the United States. Ballard Brief. https://ballardbrief.byu.edu/issue-briefs/postpartum-depression-among-adolescent-mothers-in-the-united-states
  2. Minnesota Department of Health. (2023). Mastitis: Updated guidance – topic of the month. https://www.health.state.mn.us/docs/people/wic/localagency/topicmonth/mastitis.pdf
  3. Eidelman, A.I., Schanler, R.J., Johnston, M., Landers, S., Noble, L., Szucs, K., & Viehmann, L. (2012). Breastfeeding and the use of human milk. Pediatrics. 2012;129(3):e827–e841. https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/129/3/e827
  4. Mayo Clinic. (2023, December 27). Postpartum care: What to expect after a vaginal birth. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/labor-and-delivery/in-depth/postpartum-care/art-20047233
  5. Mayo Clinic. (2024, March 6). C-section recovery: What to expect. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/labor-and-delivery/in-depth/c-section-recovery/art-20047310
  6. Cleveland Clinic. (2022, August 14). C-section. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/7246-cesarean-birth-c-section
  7. Parents. (2024, June 18). Postpartum body odor? What it is and why it happens. https://www.parents.com/postpartum-body-odor-8640503
  8. González-Timoneda, A., Valles-Murcia, N., Muñoz Esteban, P., Torres López, M. S., Turrión Martínez, E., Errandonea Garcia, P., Serrano Raya, L., & Nohales Alfonso, F. (2025). Prevalence and impact of pelvic floor dysfunctions on quality of life in women 5-10 years after their first vaginal or caesarian delivery. Heliyon, 11(3), e42018. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2025.e42018
  9. Mayo Clinic. (2023, December 27). Postpartum care: What to expect after a vaginal birth. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/labor-and-delivery/in-depth/postpartum-care/art-20047233
  10. Rupp, H. A., James, T. W., Ketterson, E. D., Sengelaub, D. R., Ditzen, B., & Heiman, J. R. (2013). Lower sexual interest in postpartum women: relationship to amygdala activation and intranasal oxytocin. Hormones and behavior, 63(1), 114–121. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yhbeh.2012.10.007
  11. Wolfe, D. (2024, October 7). How soon can you get pregnant after childbirth? The Bump. https://www.thebump.com/a/how-soon-can-you-get-pregnant-after-childbirth
  12. March of Dimes. (2025). How long should you wait before getting pregnant again? https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/planning-baby/how-long-should-you-wait-getting-pregnant-again

Have more questions?

Check out Healthy Teen Network for information about life after pregnancy and childbirth.


“This is a really fun and engaging way to offer education and support to a demographic that is typically left out.”

Mentor and doula

For youth-supporting professionals

Each Curiosity Deck includes multiple companion guides to help professionals navigate conversations with young parents.
Keep a guide for yourself and pass one on to another professional!

As you explore the Curiosity Deck with young parents, remember to recognize the unique strengths young parents bring to their journey.

Regardless of age, young parents are capable of sharing a strong bond with their children. They take on significant responsibility early and work hard to care for their children.

Many young parents are driven to build a stable and healthy future for their family. Parenthood can be a catalyst for growth, helping them focus on their educational and career goals.

Young parents have the right to make their own choices about their bodies, health, and families. By honoring their autonomy and being a supportive partner, you can create a trusting relationship to help them thrive.

In her own words, young parent Divine reflects on how meeting young parents where they are supports who they’re becoming.

Did a young parent bring you a card or question? Even if you don’t have the full deck, listen, affirm, and explore what the topic means to them.

What it means:

They’re advocating for themselves and trusting you.

This is powerful.

It means they feel safe enough to speak up, name what they need, and believe you will listen.

How to respond:

Start with an authentic affirmation, like, “I’m so glad you brought this to talk about. Thank you for trusting me with this.”

How can you meaningfully support young parents? Divine shares what has been most helpful for her.

Broaden young parents’ support networks by referring them to supportive professionals you trust, such as case managers, doulas, lactation consultants, mental health professionals, peer mentors, and others. Research shows that referrals to social services help young parents navigate parenthood with more confidence.

Call or message the professional while the young parent is with you, introduce them personally, and follow up to ensure they stay connected.

A warm referral can offer empowerment and safety for young parents—as Kiria shares in this story.

The research behind the companion guide

Check out the research that brought the companion guide to life.

  1. Strange, C., Bennett, E., Tait, M., & Hauck, Y. (2018). A qualitative evaluation of a Young Parents Program (YPP): Parent and facilitator perspectives. Health Promotion Journal of Australia, 30(3), 402–412. https://doi.org/10.1002/hpja.228
  2. Conn, B. M., de Figueiredo, S., Sherer, S., Mankerian, M., & Iverson, E. (2018). “Our lives aren’t over”: A strengths-based perspective on stigma, discrimination, and coping among young parents. Journal of Adolescence, 66, 91–100. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adolescence.2018.05.005
  3. SmithBattle, L. (2007). “I wanna have a good future”: Teen mothers’ rise in educational aspirations, competing demands, and limited school support. Youth & Society, 38(3), 348–371. https://doi.org/10.1177/0044118X06287962
  4. Powers, M. E., Takagishi, J., Committee on Adolescence, & Council on Early Childhood. (2021). Care of adolescent parents and their children. Pediatrics, 147(5), e2021050919. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2021-050919 
  5. Luca, D. L., Stevens, J., Rotz, D., Goesling, B., & Lutz, R. (2021). Evaluating teen options for preventing pregnancy: Impacts and mechanisms. Journal of Health Economics, 78, 102459. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhealeco.2021.102459 

Still curious?

Explore these organizations, tools, and stories for and about young parents.

Young United Parents (YUP!)
Young Parent Collective
Generation Hope
YoungLIVES
Supporting Young Parents Through trauma & Healing
Young Parents Stories
Young Parents Logic Model
ReSHAPING

Want to chat? Thrivology is here to answer your questions about this resource.

LET'S CONNECT

Enjoying these resources?

Leave a more detailed review for a chance to win a gift card!

Tell us more

Sign up to hear about new Thrivology releases, get the chance to share your feedback, and more:

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
Name
(We know you probably do it all, but what is your main responsibility?)

More from Thrivology

MORE RESOURCES

This project is supported by the Office of Population Affairs (OPA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award (1 PHEPA000006-01) totaling $1,063,776.35 with 100 percent funded by OPA/OASH/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by OPA/OASH/HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, please visit opa.hhs.gov.

Discover the magic of the Network.

Let's chat
Stay inspired

Want to do something similar?

You work hard to meet the needs of young people. We’re here to support and inspire you to do your best work every day.

Work with us
Stay inspired

Want more?

Ask us anything
Stay inspired