As I approach the three-week mark with my third little one, I made the questionable decision to take a good look at myself in the mirror this morning. Wow. Just wow.
If I had to sum up that experience with a single phrase, it would be: “What have I done?” The blobby figure staring back at me was a stark reminder of some critical truths every postpartum mom should be aware of.
- Avoid the Naked Mirror Stare-Down: Seriously, give yourself a solid six months before you assess the naked situation. Everything feels swollen, droopy, and, let’s be real, it can be downright horrifying. I think my eyelids might even have some kind of cellulite situation going on. Wait a bit before taking stock of yourself; let things settle back into place first.
- Welcome to the Fourth Trimester: This isn’t just a term for your baby. The fourth trimester is that awkward time when you’re no longer pregnant but not quite back to your pre-baby body either. Your maternity clothes are baggy, and your old favorites? Not fitting over that lovely cankle. Save yourself the heartache and stick with your second-trimester attire for now. Embrace those comfy clothes while you can!
- Stock Up on Laxatives: If you had a C-section or a rough vaginal delivery, pain meds can seriously mess with your bathroom habits. You haven’t lived until you’ve faced the challenge of a postpartum bowel movement. I was on two different types of stool softeners, and it was still a nightmare. Consult with your doctor about what’s safe to take, but act quickly—trust me, you don’t want to end up back in the hospital because of this.
- Invest in Absorbent Supplies: Forget about just buying maxi pads; you might as well get some Depends. The postpartum bleeding can be intense, and you’ll be shocked at how much can come out of you. Just when you think it’s over, you’ll be faced with a frightful mess. Seriously, it’s a wonder more women don’t end up anemic after giving birth.
- Moderation is Key with Alcohol: It’s tempting to celebrate your newfound freedom from pregnancy restrictions, but be careful! One glass of wine can spiral into a full-on wine fest, and that’s not great when you’re trying to care for a newborn. It’s a lesson learned the hard way—trust me.
- Commit to Your Diet Early: If you’re thinking about dieting postpartum, dive in immediately. The longer you wait, the less likely you’ll stick with it. Adjusting to life with a new baby is tough, and mindless munching can easily become your coping mechanism. If you’re going to feel tired and cranky, you don’t want to add hunger to that mix too.
- Remember Your Own Needs: For nine months, it was all about the baby, and now it seems like that’s all anyone talks about. But don’t forget—you’re still a person with needs! Ask your partner to take over for a bit so you can enjoy some “me time,” whether it’s a massage, a trip to the salon, or just a quiet drive with your favorite 90s boy band blasting. You matter, too!
This article was originally published on April 2, 2016.
For further reading, check out this insightful article about the overall experience of postpartum recovery, and if you want to dive deeper into topics related to home insemination, here’s a great resource on artificial insemination. Plus, for those looking into DIY options, visit Cryobaby’s Home Insemination Kit for a comprehensive guide.
In summary, postpartum life is filled with challenges, but remembering to care for yourself, understanding the changes your body goes through, and maintaining a sense of humor can make all the difference.