In this second and final instalment of the “10 important things to remember during the “4th Trimester” we are going to go over 5 final points that are often overlooked, forgotten about or just not recognised as important during those crucial few months post-partum. These points may seem obvious or perhaps too basic, but the reality is, in the haze of “baby”, fatigue, hormonal changes, stress and of course joy and love these key points can be crucial in health for the mother and therefore the whole family.

Final 5 (of the 10) basic yet IMPORTANT things to remember during the “4th Trimester”

6.     There is no such thing as a quick body "bounce back"

The term "bounce back" really just needs to go. The brutally honest reality is- IT DOESN’T EXIST. And that is completely ok, normal and healthy for both mother and baby.

What we must remember is that once the baby is out, our bodies now must heal from the changes (and trauma) of pregnancy, birth and adapt to the changes of looking after a new baby. Our hormones are still changing to enable milk supply, ligament contracture and bonding with the baby. Not to mention the fact you are now running on minimal sleep and constant baby awareness. So yes, it is good and important for new mothers to try to start to exercise (gently) the focus needs to be on regaining their health and strength rather than trying to fit into your old skinny jeans. You have just created a human being; you are already Wonder Woman!

7.     Plans will change, things may not happen

Before baby (especially if it is your first) you had yourself and perhaps your partner to organise and get ready. Now you have a whole human who needs A LOT of time and “stuff” to get out the door. There will be days when it takes you all day to have a shower, there may be days when you are late to appointments or not even make it to them. Your priorities, relationships and goals change, and this is all ok, and part of your new life.

8.     Success looks different now

Before baby, success was often measured in tangible ways- get that job promotion, save for a house, run a half marathon. Now success is totally different- and often potentially hard to see. Every time you take a step forward, it can seem like you have another setback. You spend all day/night keeping this helpless human fed, dry, rested and moderately content, only to receive a sleepless night. However, all the thousands of things you do for your baby matter so much. Success is seeing your healthy baby and you grow. Different from what it was but still so beautiful and AMAZING.

9.     You are not alone

In those first few hazy, fatigued, hormonal, loved up months it can feel at times you are the only one going through these experiences and that no one can understand. It is now, more than ever important to make sure you have your support group! Your group of friends or family that you can call in the middle of the night and say “It’s me or the baby “without fear of judgment. Get out of the house, go a walk or to the shops. Go to Mothers Groups, Jimbaroo, anything to get you out and interacting with people other than your baby! If you can’t one day, try the next. This is crucial for both your physical and mental health and wellbeing.

10.   You are doing a great job!

We leave the most important for last! This one is often the most ignored and the easiest to forget. You really are doing a brilliantly, fabulously, great job! Even in your dirty track pants, with your hair unwashed, mismatched socks, 4th night in a row of leftovers! You are doing a great job! This job is the hardest you may ever do, and there is no clocking on and off. So, every day/morning (often at 2am) you wake up, show up and do the best you can for you, your family and growing baby. Everyone’s journey through parenthood is different and your “best” IS GOOD ENOUGH. Don’t ever forget it!

For any further questions regarding the 4th Trimester or any other questions about your pregnancy health please contact Dr Cynthia Collins at Rainbow Chiropractic on (03) 5282 1200 or info@rainbowchiropractic.com.au