The importance of acknowledging the “4th Trimester

A few months ago, we wrote an article The importance of acknowledging the “4th Trimester” and got an overwhelming response from both our patients and the Lara Community. Finally, people were talking about what happens AFTER pregnancy and “the big event” (birth). And for many it started the conversation on what happens to the mother in those few crucial weeks post-partum. We all know it is so imperative to look after the newborn baby’s health, but again so often the mother’s health is put aside as an afterthought. Often it is expected for new mums to just “deal with” the often unknown or unexplained changes occurring both physically and mentally to them. We are going to go over 10 important things to remember during the “4th Trimester”. Starting this week with the first 5.

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

1.     Your body may be confusing

We are often prepared (or at least told) what changes to expect during pregnancy and even labour. What is often missed are the many continuously changing things that happen to our bodies post-partum. Talking openly about these changes and seeking help from your healthcare team can help manage and explain these changes.

2.     There are no good or bad babies. Just babies being babies

From the moment a baby is born we are given “expected norms” and timelines of what to expect babies to be doing. These milestones are important for the healthy growth and development of your little one and can be great. However, they can put unrealistic expectations on the baby—and on you. what we need to understand is that every single baby is different and will go through different changes at different times. So even if your baby isn't acting like that "perfect" baby next door, doesn't mean they aren't doing just fine. 

3.     You will not enjoy every single minute, and that's completely ok and normal!

Somehow it seems to be drilled into every mother, expectant or actual that they should be happy, and blissfully in love with their new life, body and baby every single minute of every day. And if they are not, then there is something wrong with them. There is guilt attached to this that if they are not then they are possibly not a good mother or even the added guilt that they have even been able to have a healthy child at all. The reality is that parenthood is HARD! It can be rollercoaster stress, loneliness, physical and mental painfulness and so much more! You don’t have to love all this all the time. This does not make you a bad parent, it makes you a NORMAL one. However, through it all you will get those blissful moments of pure joy and infinite love. And this is what makes it all worth it!

4.     You are your baby's expert

You have been with this being every second for the 9 months of pregnancy and now are with it for most of its time outside the womb. From the beginning you start to learn its different cries, its different moods and looks. Whilst it is important to listen to health professionals and take their advice, at the end of the day, if you think something is different or “not right” you listen to your gut! No one knows your baby like you!

5.     Self-care is not selfish, it’s CRUCIAL

New mothers are guilted into believing that every second should be spent taking care of our babies and families. However, whilst yes this obviously is incredibly important, the reality is if you’re not looking after yourself, you can’t look after anyone else! The reality is you need more care than ever before. So please, please do not feel guilty about taking care of yourself. Regularly! Self-care should be woven into your daily life. You are just so important, to your baby and to the world!

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