The Loving Cedar, LLC

Potential Struggles During the 4th Trimester and How to Overcome Them

Tips on helping conquer the potential postpartum struggles

It is a beautiful experience to give birth to a happy and healthy baby, but that excitement can quickly wear off once you bring your child home and experience issues during the “4th trimester.” This is the time when many women experience postpartum depression and other physical challenges. The Loving Cedar LLC has happily teamed up with Mighty Moms to give tips and tricks to help you in your “4^th trimester” journey. Emily Graham from Mighty Moms has created a helpful article I am happy to share with you today!

If You Are Breastfeeding, Consider a Nursing Bra

Did you know that most experts will recommend that you breastfeed your baby for at least the first six months of your child’s life? While this is an extraordinary time between mother and baby, it can also be frustrating if you don’t prepare yourself. One of the most significant ways to help is to invest in a good nursing bra.

This highly recommended garment will have panels or clasps that allow easier access for the baby. You can often find nursing bras on sale so always look online for promotions all year round. In many cases, you can get a deal if you bundle the bra with other products.

Pro tip: Nursing bras grow with you during pregnancy; starting right with a great, comfortable bra during the 2^nd trimester can also last you through nursing. The last thing you want to do is try to find a nursing bra you like during the 4^th trimester. So, plan ahead so you can heal and bond with your baby instead of frantically trying to find a nursing bra.

During the 4^th trimester, healing is vital. Consider other maternity clothes during this trimester, including pants and dresses. Staying comfortable can help tremendously during this time.

Leah at The Loving Cedar LLC recommends Kindred Bravely nursing bras or Undercover Mama nursing. Both give all round comfort and security. Moms design bras for moms, the experts who know how to make motherhood a bit easier.

Dealing With Postpartum Blues and Postpartum Depression

This time creates a roller coaster of emotions; it can get overwhelming between nervousness about bringing home a new baby to changes in hormones. Give yourself some time, but if you are feeling down or extra stressed after returning home from the hospital, it is likely related to postpartum blues, which is very common for many women. Symptoms include crying spells, mood swings, and difficulty sleeping. Try to get more sleep when your baby sleeps, exercise when you can, and talk to your spouse, family, or friends when you are stressed. Don’t forget to eat and drink tons of water. Nutrition is essential for you and your baby. Support during this time is so important. If you don’t have someone to help out, consider talking to a postpartum doula or ask your provider if they have support resources. You are never alone. Postpartum blues is a real thing that can lead to postpartum depression if you don’t take the time to care for yourself.

If you feel anxious or worried for more than two weeks, you should consider speaking to your doctor or a professional therapist. If you ever have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, seek help immediately. There is nothing wrong with asking for help.

Avoid Juggling Too Much at Once By Taking Time Off Work

The issue that many mothers face after having their child is that they try to go back to their job too soon and then get stressed when they are juggling motherhood with work. Taking off at least 12 weeks for maternity leave is essential so you can bond with your child before you turn them over to a babysitter or daycare. Taking time off is necessary even if you are self-employed because even if you work at home, you still need to dedicate your time to your child. Talk to your employer about FMLA and short-term disability benefits. Spouses can take time off as well.

Proper planning is essential as you want to start saving money before giving birth so you have enough to hold you over. You will also need to tell customers and clients that you will be unavailable. Even if you make your preparations, there is still a chance that some clients will not get the message, so you might also consider turning off your work phone to focus on your child.

Discomfort From a Cesarean

Whether you planned a Cesarean birth or not, you need to be ready because there may be slight pain and discomfort as you heal. The recovery from a Cesarean requires much rest, so take it easy for at least a few weeks. Rest is your best friend during this time. Your body needs to heal to care for your baby properly. The only lifting you do is lifting your baby. You can also use common painkillers like Advil and Tylenol to help with any pain you may experience. If your symptoms persist or you feel extreme pain, speak to your doctor.

Note from Certified Doula Leah Jacobson from The Loving Cedar LLC: Create an oasis for yourself. Consider having a postpartum basket next to your bed or the couch with extra snacks, water, kleenex, wipes, pads, and things for the baby. Have lots of comfy pillows and whatever else you need during this time. Find your favorite place and stay put for a while. Proper rest is the best medicine. The first few days, you only get up to go to the bathroom. Make this time unique for you and your baby. Lean on family and friends for support, and give yourself lots of grace.

If you start to deal with any of these negative aspects of the 4th trimester, then know that you are not alone. Remember to buy a good nursing bra, understand the symptoms of postpartum depression, and take time off of work for the first several months; you will feel better. If you want to know more about the doula services at The Loving Cedar LLC, check out our birth packages on the page here.