You likely dutifully attended all your prenatal appointments during your pregnancy. But in the early, hazy days after your baby arrives, putting your care needs on the backburner is easy.
This is understandable. The so-called fourth trimester — the first three months of a newborn's life — is a transitional time for families. While your newborn is adjusting to life outside the womb, you’re recovering from delivery while undergoing intense hormonal shifts. At the same time, the family is adjusting to their new roles while figuring out how to stay connected.
This period can feel like a lot, and it may not always line up with what you imagined parenthood to be like. Being prepared can help, though. In my practice, I like to walk expecting and new parents through some of the fourth trimester's most common challenges and how they can be managed. Here are a few things you should know.
Childbirth recovery is a gradual process
Labor and delivery can be grueling, whether you give birth vaginally or via C-section. So, it can take time for your body to heal. For instance, your uterus will slowly shrink back down to its pre-pregnancy size over about six weeks. During that period, it's normal to continue to have postpartum bleeding and cramping.
Even after you pass these milestones, your body may not look — or behave — like before your baby was born. In the coming months, you'll regain your strength and feel more like yourself. But it’s always a good idea to tell your doctor if you’re worried about your recovery.
Hormonal changes continue after childbirth
Hormones like estrogen and progesterone are at an all-time high during pregnancy. But they plummet after giving birth. The steep drop can cause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, headaches, and mood changes. Hormone shifts can also make sleeping harder, even though you're probably exhausted from your baby's demanding schedule.
Postpartum mental health shifts are common
It's normal for birthing parents to feel a little sad, nervous, or overwhelmed in the days after having their baby. For some, however, these emotions can linger, intensify, and morph into postpartum depression or anxiety. Those post-pregnancy hormone swings are part of the cause. In addition, lack of support from partners or family can make it harder for you to care for your baby and yourself.
Many new parents feel ashamed or embarrassed about these feelings. But the truth is, they're incredibly common and don't mean you're a bad parent. The key is speaking up to your partner or your provider so you can get the help you need.
Breastfeeding doesn't always come "naturally"
Many of my patients are surprised to find out that neither they nor their babies have an instant knack for breastfeeding. It can feel clumsy and frustrating, leaving parents anxious about whether their newborn is getting enough to eat.
In reality, nursing is a new skill that takes time for you and your baby to learn. Many new parents need some help with common breastfeeding challenges, like poor latching or low milk supply. But if you stick with nursing and get the support you need, you'll get the hang of it. (And if you decide that breastfeeding isn't right for you, that's okay too.)
Newborn bonding can be a process
Most new parents expect to fall in love with their baby when they see them. But that's not always the case. Stress, sleep deprivation, and the around-the-clock nature of caring for a newborn can sometimes make it hard to feel connected.
Rest assured, you and your partner will bond with the baby in time. You'll become a pro at figuring out exactly what your little one needs and how to soothe them. Meanwhile, as your baby grows, they will become more interactive. Their smiles, coos, and deep attachment to you will start to shine through. And you'll start to feel that deep, unconditional love you've been waiting for.
Getting the support you need
As an OB/GYN, I know that postpartum checkups are an essential part of making sure birthing parents are supported. Your provider will monitor your physical recovery and check for any postpartum complications. And the visits are a vital opportunity to keep tabs on your mental health. In short, we want to make sure birthing parents and their partners are getting the support they need.
I encourage patients to come in for their first postpartum visit within three weeks of birth, or sooner if they had certain pregnancy complications. From there, we can determine if and when additional visits are needed throughout the fourth trimester.
To learn more about Temple's OB/GYN and maternity care services or schedule an appointment, call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) or schedule an appointment online.
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