Hazy period after birth a time of change
Janine Gard is a diploma-qualified birth educator (2005) and the founder of Bellies to Babies antenatal and postnatal classes. She has helped more than 3700 parents prepare themselves mentally, emotionally and physically for their journey to parenthood an
Justwhenyou thought you’d reached the finish line of pregnancy, you discover there’s one more“trimester” to journey through. We’re talking about the “fourth trimester”— that hazy period where you’re recovering from pregnancy and delivery while simultaneously learninghowto be a parent as you, your partner and your baby adjust. Whatis the fourth trimester? Marking the transition from pregnancy to postpartum, the fourth trimester is the 12-week period of time following the birth of your baby. These first weeks are a time of change, learning andnew experiences for everyone.
Mothers are going through significant changes in theirown bodies, having just given birth and nowcaring for their little one. These changes are experienced physically, emotionally, mentally and socially.
Awhirlwind of change
The first days and weeks after giving birth can be a tumultuous stream of sleep deprivation and adjustments to anewnormal.
Youare learninghowto feed and care for your newborn and at the sametime, you’ve just gone through adramatic change in yourownbody. Because of that, youmaybe dealing with vaginal soreness, cramping and bleeding and that list does not include the complexities and time needed for aC-section recovery if thatwas your delivery method. As a result, weare often trying to recover physically from that journey while also learning about anewhumanwith hormones are in flux and our organs are shifting back to their former positions!
Takecare of yourself
Try to eat healthy foods like fruits, veges, lean proteins and whole grains and limit sugary snacks. Drink plenty of water and get out of the house whenyoucan.
Whenyour baby sleeps, try to get someshut-eye yourself or at least rest and put your feet up.
Askfor help
Let your partner, a close friend or relative help take care of the baby.
Even if you’re breastfeeding, they can take baby at other times so you can sleep, as well as handle nappy and bath-time routines.
Whensomeonecomes to visit, give themsomething to do instead of feeling like you need to play host.
Knowthat it’s normalto not feel normal
Intensemoodswings and periods of weepiness are normal after having a baby. Don’t beat yourselfupfor feeling this way, or for worrying that youaren’t doing enough. If you’ve managedto get somerest, eat something and care for your baby, you’ve ticked off all the important todos.
While feelingmoreemotional during the weeks right after birth is common, feeling chronically sad, depressed or overly anxious, or having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby can be signs of postnatal depression (PND) or postnatal anxiety (PNA).
Mental health issues likePNDare treatable, so if youthink you need help, reach out to your healthcare provider.
Adjusting to life
Adjusting to life with anewbaby is a gradual transition. Things never quite “go back to thewaythey were” before you gave birth. By12 weeks after baby’s arrival, you should feel muchmorephysically and emotionally comfortable than you did initially.
Most importantly, you’ll have started to build the confidence and experience that will carry you through your journey as a parent.
■ Bellies to Babies Antenatal& Postnatal Classes, baby massage courses and baby and infant first aid courses, 2087 Pakowhai Rd, Hawke’s Bay, 022 637 0624. https://www. hbantenatal-classes.co.nz/
Medical disclaimer: This page is for educational and informational purposes only and may not be construed asmedical advice. The information is not intended to replace medical advice offered by physicians.