The fourth trimester can be full of a wide range of emotions and challenges. But it can also be a joyous filled time. Every woman has a different experience. It is considered the 12 weeks following the delivery of your baby. This period of time involves adjustments to your mental, physical, and emotional health. Your body is healing and recovering from the trauma of birth and the plummeting of hormones. You're taking on the new role of caring for an infant 24/7 who is dependent on you for everything. You're sleep deprived. Maybe this isn't even your first time postpartum, and you are juggling life with your other children as well who are also adjusting to the changes.
Regardless, the main goal is to prepare yourself for life with your newborn after they exit the womb. A couple steps in the direction of preparation is:
Knowing the signs and symptoms of postpartum anxiety and depression
Preparing your home for the arrival of your newborn
If you have other children- allow them time and space to welcome their new sibling
Accept support and help from others (meal preps, letting them watch the baby while you take a nap, delegating tasks, taking time for self-care etc.)
Prepare a postpartum healing kit
Understand some things are out of your control and do not compare your experiences with others
Know that support is available at all stages of your journey
Bonding with your infant is an important step postpartum for both you and your baby. This involves skin to skin contact and feeding. Understanding the basics of newborn care can aid in your journey. Newborns typically sleep 14-17 hours a day. They are typically ready to eat every 2 to 3 hours, and crying is their main form of communication.
The positive side of the fourth trimester in terms of healthcare, is that it is gaining more recognition. Support, and services are more available to postpartum women. Regular doctor visits, especially the first 6 weeks, are scheduled for yourself and your infant to check in and assure well-being. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, breastfeeding, or any other postpartum adjustment, your provider can offer services and support in any of those areas. Accepting the support available to you is a huge step in the right direction.
In conclusion, postpartum can be both a challenging and beautiful time. Many factors contribute to your experiences and some of them are out of your control. But preparation, acceptation of support, and reaching out for help when needed can aid you and your baby to have the best possible fourth trimester you can.
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