Between pregnancy, labor and then actually having a baby, mamas can kind of get lost in the shuffle.
When you’re pregnant, everyone asks how you’re doing and makes sure you’re taking care of yourself so that the baby is growing properly. But once the baby is born, moms more or less take a back seat. Most people don’t even acknowledge you when you walk in the door. You’re losing sleep, physically exhausted…it’s a lot.
But keeping another human alive and happy means making yourself happy too. It’s so important to take care of yourself in the fourth trimester (the first 12 weeks after baby is born). It can be hard to 1. find time to take care of yourself and 2. make time for yourself and not feel guilty. Finding time is hard, but not impossible.
Today, I wanted to share some tips with y’all on how you can take care of yourself during the fourth trimester, scroll down to continue reading!
1.) Get some rest and give your body some extra time to heal
Let me start off by saying this is not the tip to “sleep when baby sleeps”. That’s honestly sort of an unrealistic, and not entirely helpful tip. However, it is important to be getting rest at this time. Your body has been through a lot over the last several months, and you deserve some rest, mama. Dishes, laundry, dusting…it can all wait until later or even tomorrow. Give yourself some grace and take a darn nap. Climb in bed early after you put the baby down. Get the rest you need and deserve!
2.) Delegate household duties to your significant other, or ask for help from friends and family
Speaking of taking time to rest…moms have so much pressure put on them to “do it all”. And, we all know that’s literally impossible and no one mom does “do it all”. No matter how put together someone’s life may look on social media, there’s a pile of clothes in the corner, an overflowing trashcan, or kids toys scattered all over the place. Nobody’s life is perfect and nobody can do it all.
After a brand new baby comes home, there is a lot you need to learn about that baby (and about yourself). You have to worry about getting him on a schedule, making sure he’s eating properly, making sure you’re eating properly…you need help. And, there’s no shame in that…not one little bit. Don’t be afraid to tell your significant other what you need. Ask for help from family or friends when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Nobody has to do this alone and you shouldn’t be expected to. Ask for help and delegate when needed!
3.) Feed your body with food and drink you both need and still love
Especially if you’re a breastfeeding mom, you know that staying hydrated and eating right is crucial for keeping up your supply. But staying hydrated and fed is also important for your physical healing after birth. So keep a big cup of water near by at all times, and make sure you’re eating meals and snacks that are yummy!
4.) Move your body however it feels good for you
After having a baby, there should be absolutely no pressure to “get your body back”. But, if you were an active person before pregnancy and during pregnancy, you’re probably going to be itching to get back to it. If that’s the case, make sure to give yourself grace. Know that your body might not move the same as it did before. Don’t put any pressure on yourself and do whatever feels good for you.
5.) Treat yourself
You just did one of the most amazing things a person can do. Bringing another human into the world is amazing and absolutely treat-worthy. Do something for yourself to treat yo’self, mama. Splurge on some new clothes that feel comfortable on your postpartum body. Take an hour or two for a spa day either at a local spa or even just at home. Find something to reward yourself for all you’ve done and all you continue to do to!
What about you? What are some of your best tips for taking care of yourself in the 4th trimester? Let me know in a comment below!
