The fourth trimester is the first 12 weeks immediately following labor. It is a time where your little one is beginning to adjust to life outside the womb and for you, a deep period of healing the body while navigating life at home with your baby. Most think postpartum is the first 90 days but in fact, postpartum has no timeframe as each woman's time of healing and bonding with her baby will vary. During this time as your hormones are yet again influx and your body is feeling sore and achy you may be filled with a range of emotions; happy, confused, excited, fearful, curious, overwhelmed and so forth. And lets not forget, completely exhausted.
As women, we are naturally caregivers and so often pour our energy into helping others at our own expense. Postpartum is the time to turn your attention inward and fill yourself up first while tending to the needs of your baby. Your body has endured 9 months of radical changes followed by labor and therefore is worthy of every ounce of rest. It is within these precious days that you keep things simple; love upon your baby, feed him or her, nourish your body, sleep and repeat. Remember this time is for you and your baby, to create an everlasting bond while getting to know one another.
The house may be messy and showers may be sparse during this time but that is okay. What is not imortant can wait until tomorrow. It is perfectly fine to ask for help whether that be from your partner, family, friends or postpartum doula. Throughout every culture individuals know that postpartum is a sacred time for the mother and her baby and support is essential.
We prepare for pregnancy and labor, yet sometimes preparing for postpartum may become missed due to the immediate demands that draw our attention. I admit, I infrequently thought about postpartum because I did not have the time or energy to focus on preparations that needed to be in place before I arrived home with my baby. It was a little bit of a whirlwind at first but after a few days I was able to settle into a routine. Sometimes we can be prepared and sometimes we just have to learn as we go. Taking care of a newborn is definitely a learning curve with each day. It is not text book for every mother, and your time with your baby is your own unique learning experience.
Trust your motherly instincts to know what is best for your baby, yet always reach out to professionals with any questions, concerns or doubts.
Here are some tips to help you navigate the fourth trimester with joyful restoration:
Delegate house chores and grocery shopping.
Stock your fridge/freezer with ready made meals and your cubboards with on the go snacks.
Don't neglect hydration. Keep a water bottle by your side at all times.
Cuddle with your baby and savor every minute as it goes by too fast.
Ask for help with breastfeeding or formula feeding as needed. Consider meeting with a lactation consultant.
Sleep when your baby sleeps.
Consider purchasing a postpartum essentials kit with a peri bottle.
Keep extra pads on hand.
Engage in mini moments of self-care such as gentle stretching, journaling, or listening to soothing music.
"Phone a friend" when in need of a listening ear.
Schedule your baby's first appointment with their healthcare provider.
Schedule your 6 week postpartum appointment with your OB/Midwives office.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Give yourself permission to slow down and heal on all levels; physically, emotionally, and mentally. Your body will thank you and, so will your baby!
Reach out with any questions and/or need of postpartum support.
~Juliana
Comments