5 Ways New Moms Can Get Ready for the 4th Trimester

When you found out that you were pregnant, you read up on everything that you should expect for your first, second, and third trimesters. But you might not be familiar with the fourth trimester, which is another term for being postpartum. Your body is still changing during this time, and many new mothers are taken by surprise.

If you want to remember these early days with your baby, it’s worth scheduling a newborn photography session with Lane Collins Photography. Additionally, these tips will help you deal with some challenges that women often encounter in the fourth trimester.

Give Yourself Bonding Time

Sometimes, new moms hope that they’ll be able to return to their regular routines and even get back to work in just a couple of weeks. However, this is rarely the case - caring for a newborn is all-consuming. Therefore, it’s important to prepare before your due date so that you enjoy downtime with your baby and simply focus on bonding. If you’re self-employed, you won’t have maternity leave provided by an employer.

Instead, let your clients know in advance when you’ll be taking time off, or consider hiring a virtual assistant to take over your inbox for a while. You may also want to book a newborn photoshoot during your time off. Even if you had maternity photos taken, it’s a good idea to schedule newborn photos, too - after all, your baby will grow so fast!

Recovering From a C-Section

If you had to have a C-section, you’re going to have some special considerations when you’re

postpartum. The Bump states that you should not carry anything heavier than your baby. Also,

take any pain medications you were prescribed on schedule, use a belly band if you find it

comfortable, drink plenty of water, and ask for lots of help from your loved ones.

Feel Comfortable While Breastfeeding

Many new mothers are surprised by just how painful breastfeeding can be at first. Lots of

mothers don’t necessarily talk about their own breastfeeding difficulties, so it’s hard to know

exactly what to expect. To choose a supportive nursing bra, Pregnant Chicken recommends

getting professionally fitted. And to avoid discomfort and pain while breastfeeding, Very Well

Family recommends using cold compresses and breastfeeding ointments, as well as getting

plenty of fresh air.

Cope With the “Baby Blues”

After giving birth, you’ll experience a massive shift in your hormone levels. While this does not

always lead to the “baby blues,” it’s a common experience for many women. You might feel

mildly depressed after giving birth, but this isn’t always a warning sign of postpartum depression

- it could just be a week or two of the baby blues. Let your loved ones know what you need from

them during this time so that you can get some relief.

Prioritize Pelvic Floor Health

Your pelvic floor will need some extra care after you give birth. Your doctor may recommend

trying certain pelvic floor exercises a few weeks after having your baby. If you are worried about

any concerning symptoms, make sure to reach out to your doctor as soon as possible - you do

not have to accept lingering pain as “normal.” You may want to inquire about pelvic floor

therapy, depending on your condition.

The fourth trimester can be difficult. You’re coping with significant physical changes while caring

for a newborn who needs you for everything. With these tips, you’ll be able to spend more time

bonding with your baby, get comfortable with breastfeeding, and care for your pelvic floor.

Do you want to have a memento of the newborn days to make sure you savor these precious memories? Schedule a newborn photo session in Dahlonega, Georgia with Lane Collins Photography!

-Blog collaborated & written by Katherine Williams of whenthebabysleeps.com
Photos by Erika, Lane Collins Photography, North Georgia newborn & maternity photographer