So I know a lot of parents are on the fast track to learning about labor and delivery and may be overwhelmed. So why even prepare for the 4th trimester (after baby is born)? There is so much to learn already!!
I get it. You haven't gone to school to learn ALL the things. But the best part is- there are ways to set yourself up for success and you don't have to get a Master's in Biology to do it!
So let's get into it...
Your body will need TIME to heal. I know- it seems intuitive, but I think so many mamas feel like they have to get "back" to who they were pre-baby. I'm here to assure you- that's not possible. You may physically "snap back" into your former frame- or you may not. The biology is gonna do what it does with your help and guidance. But the emotional and spiritual recovery needs attention & intention to heal as well. Give yourself that grace by mentally preparing to never be the same and embracing that change.
2. Your vagina is going to need extra care (if you had a vaginal delivery) and if you had a c-section, it will STILL need extra care! Your uterus will still bleed as you heal from the placenta and baby leaving your body. After this type of transformation- from being pregnant to birthing your child(ren)- your parts will need time to adjust. There's a reason your check-up for things being (somewhat) back in order is 6 weeks out. Not that I support that model, but the point is that it takes time for that swelling and balance to come back. It can of course take longer or shorter depending on things like your hydration, nutrition, ability to rest and if you've had stitches or extra physical damage in your bottom to heal from post-partum. Herbs and bath soaks will be your best friend- believe me!!
3. Nursing will involve a learning curve for you and the baby! Give it 2 solid weeks to get in routine. Not only will your body & hormones need to adjust to the baby being out and needing to make milk- but your infant will have to learn how to latch and draw the milk from your breasts as well. I highly encourage you to get breastfeeding support! Set up a consultation with a lactation consultant, IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) or breastfeeding educators. Doulas and midwives have skills of course in providing support, but if you need help with deeper challenges- there are specialists available.
4. You are going to be on a high from the birth, I mean come on- look at what you've been through! However your body may sometimes crash post-partum. You can get the shakes where you are shivering like you're cold, the support team will likely add blankets to comfort you. Just know that this is totally normal and should subside.
5. Your family and friends will want to see the new baby. However, you should not be concerned about hosting people. Your attention should be on healing and bonding with the new addition to your family. It's helpful to prepare everyone by letting your requests for support be made known before the baby comes. Who can come by to do laundry? Who can bring some pre-made meals that are easy to heat in the oven or crockpot? When do you plan to introduce them to their new family members? Everyone will hopefully understand and respect your boundaries- if not...my only other piece of advice is- protect your energy. People will only know what you tell them.
6. Skin to skin will help regulate your baby's body temperature better than clothes. Simply place baby on your chest and lay a blanket over them and you. The sound of your heartbeat will calm them as well- they remember it so well 🥰.
7. The first poop is a mind game- yes you had to push a baby out using those same muscles. But it's important to know that everything is working again and not paralyzed from the birth process. Take a stool softener, or better yet- eats prunes or drink prune juice to keep things moving through smoothly. Fiber will be your friend these first weeks. Use tissue or a wet wipe to support your bottom with your hand as you activate those muscles for a bowel movement. Remember you should not have to strain to push- try to relax and release. 🙌🏼
Planning for postpartum and allowing yourself A LOT of grace will help you so much in your postpartum journey. Please reach out and schedule a consultation with a doula, lactation professional or pelvic floor therapist as needed. There is so much support available to help you in this incredible life transition.
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