Many people think there are only three trimesters in the journey of motherhood. However, the last trimester (delivery-12 weeks post) is a critical time for the mother and child. This 12-week period sets the stage for long-term health and well-being while the mother’s body undergoes physical changes. Therefore, with the fourth trimester, it is crucial to take care of your new baby and your body as well.
Physically, the body unundergoes a tremendous amount of stress and changes when delivering the baby. Depending on the delivery method, what to expect varies as new mothers undergo the recovery process. The most significant difference between a C-section recovery and a vaginal birth recovery is the aftercare to prevent infection. After a C-section, be sure to treat the incision with care: take it easy and rest whenever it is possible. Avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby while monitoring your incision for any redness, swollenness, or leakage, as it may be a sign of an infection. Be sure to experiment with proper breast-feed positions that work well with C-section recovery.
For vaginal births, vaginal soreness may occur for a few weeks after—especially after an extensive tear. To help with vaginal soreness, mothers should sit on pillows or padded rings. If the area is sore, use an ice pack or a chilled witch hazel pack between a sanitary napkin on the area between your vaginal opening and anus (perineum). Next, sit in a warm bath to cover your buttocks and hips for five minutes—you can also use cold water if you find it more soothing. Finally, be sure to use over-the-counter remedies for general pain or constipation. Be sure to talk to your health care provider if you experience severe, persistent, or increasing pain.
There is, however, shared postpartum signs and symptoms:
- Vaginal Discharge
- Contractions “After Pains”
- Tender Breasts
- Hair loss and skin changes
- Mood Changes
- Weight Loss
The early postpartum period is a time of great joy. While the joy is there, it is also a time where new mothers are most vulnerable to Postpartum Depression or infection. Thus, it is essential to prioritize postpartum health. After childbirth, talk with your health care provider about the risks of a pregnancy-related complication and if you need any special follow-up care. Rather than having a single visit after your delivery, have contact with your provider within the first 3 weeks after delivery. Within 12 weeks after delivery, have your provider conduct a comprehensive postpartum evaluation.
Although the 4th trimester is focused on keeping the newborn as healthy as possible, it is equally as important that we protect our new mothers as well. By staying up to date with a postpartum visit with primary care professionals, mothers can limit their risk of post-partum complications and infections. The 4th trimester care doesn’t only happen for the baby: mothers must also care for themselves to keep their baby happy and healthy.
Resources and references:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-fourth-trimester-what-you-should-know-2019071617314
