Preparing for a baby is quite the journey, and often new mothers forget to factor in the fourth trimester, the 12 weeks after the baby is born. But why is that? New moms will experience many unfamiliar things, and one of them is the intense feelings that come with fluctuating hormones. Read on as we discuss the baby blues and how to handle the fourth trimester in all its glory.
Prepare Meals During the Nesting Phase
Near the end of the third trimester, you’ll feel a sudden and intense shift called the nesting phase. This is where your body will feel the powerful desire to prepare, finalize, clean, and make space for your baby right before delivery.
Even though you prepared throughout pregnancy, this nesting period is much more concentrated and urgent. Use this phase to prepare freezer meals, even one a day, so after the baby arrives, you can rely on those prepared meals to nourish your body as you heal from delivery.
Connect With a Friend Regularly
Make it a point to connect with a friend at least once daily and chat about typical things. If you drown yourself in baby talk, you will feel like you’re never going to get a break. Use this connection time to catch up on their life and chat about shows you’re binging or books you’re reading. Use this time in a way that feels most geared to you; just make it a point to connect with someone other than your newborn.
Allow Yourself To Feel
The blues will kick in, and that’s okay. The baby blues typically occur the first six weeks after birth, when you feel down about your baby getting older or your life-changing, potentially grieving the life you once had. Please know that all feelings are valid, and you should allow yourself to feel these emotions and avoid dismissing them.
The phase will typically pass after about six weeks. But should the down episodes continue, or things progress, and intrusive thoughts become hard to handle, partner with your primary care doctor to discuss the best options and treatments. Particularly if you’re lactating or breastfeeding postpartum, your body and hormonal baselines are experiencing significant shifts and doing a lot of work. Some treatments may not agree with breastmilk or nursing, and it’s essential to understand all of your options.
Check In With Yourself at Least Once a Day
Connecting with a friend is a separate form of communication that will play a vital role in helping you maintain mental stability. But outside of this time, try to check in with yourself in another form at least once a day. This may mean eating a hot meal or taking a hot shower in peace.
This time should fill your cup and give you one moment each day to catch your breath, mentally regroup, and allow you to maintain a sense of yourself. If you struggle with this, remember you cannot take care of anyone without taking care of yourself first.
The fourth trimester is full of learning, tears, and love, but the baby blues can feel never-ending and rob you of the joyous moments. Hopefully, these practical suggestions will help you navigate the waters more easily.
