To optimize the health of women and infants, postpartum care should become an expectation rather than an afterthought. A new mom has undergone many changes during pregnancy and birth and it takes plenty of adequate time to recover and adjust to new routines, new experiences and a new chapter of life.
During the trimesters of pregnancy, there are many appointments, tests, doctor visits, ultrasounds, baby showers and in general a hyper-focus on the mother and baby in utero for 9 months. There is an overwhelming amount of information to digest and much support and interest in a soon-to-be-mother.
The 4th Trimester
The postpartum period or 4th trimester begins after the delivery of a baby and is an ongoing process. This time period is different for every woman. There should be no “set” timeline for recovery; however many new mothers feel the pressure to return to “normal” as quickly as possible.
As soon as the baby arrives, the focus shifts to the baby and far less on mom post delivery. There is so much going on with a mother’s body and her state of mind with rapidly changing hormone levels, healing from labor + delivery and the general exhaustion that comes with having a newborn.
Meeting the constant needs of a baby involves time and energy. Many mothers may be so tired or busy that eating regular meals is challenging. It is important to plan simple, but healthy meals so that your body is fueled for its increased demands.
Getting as much rest and sleep as possible can seem an impossible task so it is vital to lean on family and friends to help out as often as they are able. Don’t be afraid to ask as your self-care is of the utmost priority, Remember, it takes a village.
If you are feeling out of sorts, that can be common postpartum as you very slowly return to a state of equilibrium. If you are feeling downright blue, that is not unusual either but you should seek out someone you trust and share with them how you are feeling. See a professional if you have any thoughts about hurting yourself or your infant. Postpartum depression is a very real thing with so much change and fluctuations affecting a new mom.
Vaida’s Own Dr. Emily is a BirthFit Leader
Dr. Emily is certified as a BirthFit Leader which means she has specialized education in 4th trimester postpartum care and support. She has knowledge to guide new moms in their postpartum journey especially as it relates to movement and activity and she is an amazing go-to for new moms.
Postpartum healing affects both a mother’s physical and mental health. Dr. Emily has a few recommendations for books and other online resources related to both:
Postpartum Recovery + Mental Health
BirthFit Lying In (Postpartum Healing Timeline)
Chiropractic Adjustments Helps A Postpartum Body
Scheduling regular chiropractic adjustments after having a baby can help with the general aches and pains as your body resets and regains strength, muscle tone and stamina. It can also help reduce muscle tension in the upper back, shoulders and neck from regularly holding, carrying and feeding an infant.
A mom’s nervous system has also been impacted significantly during pregnancy and in its postpartum state. Proper spinal alignment is crucial to calming the whole system down and returning the brain and body to a more balanced place.
So if you are a new mom be sure to schedule regular appointments at Vaida to see Dr. Emily or Dr. Lydia for your adjustments!