Do you feel like a superhero because you endured a great deal of physical and emotional changes to birth your baby" Do you remember the burst of immeasurable joy and love when welcoming your little one" Did you make caring for yourself a priority in the fourth trimester (the first 3 months after giving birth)"
Most new moms would likely say, ?No.? And who can blame them when the days and weeks after birth are filled with little to no sleep, tender nursing sessions, and finding a routine even as baby is growing and changing"
Prioritize Rest and Sleep
Set aside time to rest and sleep. Experiment to find out what works best for you to recharge. Newborns have irregular sleep patterns; this can leave you feeling exhausted and sleep-deprived. Take advantage of opportunities to rest and communicate your needs to your partner and support system. Try taking short naps during the day, alternating night feeds with your partner, or hiring a postpartum doula to assist you at night.
Nourish Your Body
Nutrition is key when recovering from childbirth. Eat lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Skip sugars as they can increase feelings of fatigue and irritability.
Drink lots of water or herbal teas. Plan your snacks throughout the day and eat multiple small meals. If you?re breastfeeding baby, ask to meet with a lactation consultant to discuss your nutritional needs in recovery.
Embrace Hair Shedding
Hair shedding is common in the fourth trimester. Many wom...