The fourth trimester, in many ways, is the hardest. In an instant there is another person you are responsible for cleaning, feeding, and maintaining their general well being. It’s easy to find yourself lost in the hours of taking care of a newborn. Add more children to the mix and suddenly your 2-6 weeks of rest and recovery are speeding away from you. After Baby Boy was born, I had even less time that I thought I could devote to taking care of myself. However, a new mom of 3, I finally understood that there were 4 key pieces of advice that I HAD to follow.
Sleep When the Baby Sleeps
With Miss Moo, I spent a lot of time watching her sleep as a newborn. A first time mom, I was mesmerized by everything that she did and didn’t want to miss anything. I missed a LOT of sleep that way. By the 3rd baby, I began to understand that when I had help with the girls and he was sleeping I needed to sleep. My body was healing, making a new milk supply, and sleep was imperative for these things. Simple 30 minute cat naps could make a world of difference in my attitude, my ability to cope with 3 children, and my mental health. Sleep when the baby sleeps!
Take it Easy
Giving birth is an amazing experience. But suddenly there isn’t a person in your body where the was an instant ago. Your body systems need time to recover. Your body temperature needs to regulate. Your placenta is gone and with it all the hormones your body was producing. You need to take it easy. Don’t rush the laundry, the cooking, and the stairs. Ask for help with the chores. Don’t feel guilty for laying down with you watch a movie or read with your kids.
EAT!
It’s really easy to forget to eat. I’ve done it with every one of my children. I’ll look at the clock, its 4 pm and I realize I haven’t eaten anything. Cooking, especially for yourself, is hard when you are taking care of a newborn. However, eating – especially for nursing mothers- is crucial. Keeps snacks near your favorite nursing spots and your bed. Try to snack each time the baby nurses. Eat good fat foods and eat them often. You need 400-500 calories MORE a day when nursing!
Drink Water
I’m terrible at this one. I generally do well for the first week and then all bets are off. Your body will find a source of water to make breastmilk. It helps if you’re willingly supplying it! Drink as much water – if not more -now as you were when you were pregnant. Fill up water bottles at night and put the in the fridge for easy access. Drink at least 8-10 ounces each time you nurse. Take water with you on outings. If you feel thirsty, you’re dehydrated. Drink more water.
Enjoy It
The newborn phase comes and goes so quickly. As I write this, I am nursing an almost 14 pound 3 month old baby boy. It won’t be a challenge on your body forever, so be kind to your body and yourself when you need to be. You’ve done an amazing thing in creating a child and bringing him/her earthside. Now, tell your body thank you while you get to know your child.
What was imperative for you in the fourth trimester? Did you ask for help when you needed it?
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The post 4 Forget-Me-Nots for the Fourth Trimester appeared first on Modern Alternative Pregnancy.