We all know about the three trimesters in pregnancy, but what’s not commonly spoken about is the three months that follow after your baby’s arrival. This period is known as the ‘fourth trimester’ and while this time is exciting and joyous with so many incredible milestones, it is also likely to be challenging as you adapt to your new adventure as a parent.
As you navigate parenthood, you may feel overwhelmed and exhausted, all while you’re trying to recover from birth. However, by integrating a few helpful tips, the fourth trimester can become more manageable and filled with all the precious moments. Here are my favorite tips for surviving the fourth trimester!
Ask for help
Trust me mama, you will need help! Whether it’s your partner, friend, caretaker or a family member, ask someone to stay with you or visit regularly to assist with tasks around the house. The emotional support will also be amazing during this time.
Get some rest
This one is easier said than done, but it’ll be so worth it! Sleep when the baby sleeps, or ask someone to watch the baby while you have a nap. The extra sleep will help aid your recovery and you will be feeling refreshed and clear headed afterwards.
Be kind to yourself
While your hormones are finding a new rhythm, you may feel very unlike yourself. This typically shouldn’t last much longer than a couple of weeks. Make sure to be kind to yourself during this time. Don’t put pressure on yourself to be doing things or see people when you aren’t up to it. Feel free to eat your favourite comfort food every now and then (it’ll help your soul!). You have just nurtured, grown and birthed a baby, allowing yourself time to heal both physically and mentally is an absolute necessity.
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Stay hydrated
Your body needs hydration more than ever, especially if you’re breastfeeding! Make sure you’re drinking at least 8 glasses of water throughout the day, to help with overall recovery and swelling. Set reminders on your phone every hour or keep a full water bottle nearby at all times.
Start moving
When you’re feeling ready and have the doctors go ahead, start going for slow walks. It will only be very slow paced and short distance for a little while, but this can be built up over time. Walking is a great way to release endorphins, which will help your mental health, especially after being indoors for most of the day. It will also do wonders for recovery.
If you need extra support, don’t forget to chat with your midwife or health professional.
You’ve got this, mama. When it gets too hard, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Slowly, throughout this fourth trimester also known as the newborn haze, you will begin to discover a redefined you, and eventually, you will become the person you were always meant to be and love it more than you could possibly imagine.
Want to know more about the first 12 weeks of your baby’s life earth side? Read the Fourth Trimester blog to help you transition and flourish in those initial weeks after birth.
If you’re ready to learn 5 quick and easy ways to calm your newborn check out the blog or download my Fourth Trimester Guide.
