I had no idea what people were saying when they told me to “be careful in the fourth trimester,” but it’s an important part of mental health and wellbeing. The fourth trimester after birth is a difficult time for parents.
Not only will you be helping your baby adjust to life outside the womb, but you may also be feeling overwhelmed with fatigue, pain, and anxiety.
Postnatal care in hospital
The first few days after giving birth are a time to rest, recover, and bond with your newborn baby. But don’t forget about yourself. Eat, sleep, and remember that you are just as important as your baby. I remember being busy and neglecting myself. I didn’t feel the best. But I am thankful for my village.
Get a village
The first few weeks at home can be a bit hectic. Adjusting to life with a newborn can be exciting and challenging, but also overwhelming. I am so grateful for my community – my mom stayed behind, my husband took time off work, my brother/sister in law came to visit, my mother in law came over. You need help. I know not everyone can get help, but make more friends, hire a doula. Do your best. There is a lot to learn and a lot of responsibility involved with caring for a newborn.
Keep your baby close
This is a tough one. I prefer to keep my baby in his room. Firstly, it makes me feel more connected to him. If I know his sleep patterns, I can hear when he needs something. It makes me feel a lot less anxious.
Do you sleep when your baby sleeps?
This is easier said than done. For the first few months, I didn’t. I watched Ava religiously. Eating, doing chores, watching shows. But once she was about 3 months old, I took little naps every now and then. It was so refreshing (laughs).
Remember: The fourth trimester is a time of adjustment for both you and your baby, so make sure you build a village. During this time, it’s important to take care of yourself as best you can so you can be there for your baby.
Source: My Spiced Life: Beauty + Lifestyle Blog – www.spicedbeauty.com
