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A guest blog post by Eleanor Wyatt

Congratulations on bringing a new bundle of joy into the world! While you have a lot of
wonderful days ahead, you will first need to get through the “4th trimester,” which is the point
after giving birth when you may be feeling some discomfort and pain, both mentally and
physically. It is perfectly natural to feel this way, but you can make the experience easier. Here
at Mary the Medicine Woman, we want every mother to enjoy the experience of raising their
little bundle of joy, so we have some tips for how you can do so without feeling pain and stress
during this time.

Consider Purchasing a Hands-Free Pumping Bra

When you are getting closer to your due date, it is a good idea to start shopping for items that
will make your life easier and an item that you should certainly consider is a hands-free pumping bra.

It can be very time-consuming to have to stop everything to pump milk for your precious
baby, and a pumping bra allows you to go about your other tasks, from errands around the
house to reading a book to your child, all while you create the milk that your child needs.
To make your life easier, consider going online to a retailer like Amazon or a maternity shop that
will have exactly what you need. Then, read customer reviews to find a product that is worth
your money.

Making Life Easier After a C-Section

Many mothers have a C-section, and while it is great to see your baby come forth into the world,
it can be uncomfortable and a bit painful in the weeks immediately after you give birth. Your
doctor will likely give you medicine to cover the first one or two weeks, so take those pills
exactly as directed. You may be exhausted, but it is important to get out of bed and walk around
a bit within 24 hours after the delivery. Doing so will help to ease the gas pains and prevent
blood clots.

You may also be dealing with many emotions during this time, including fear and anxiety. If you
are, then you can get help and advice by talking to your midwife or general practitioner. Then, if
you continue to have negative thoughts or feelings of depression, then you should talk to a
professional therapist that can put your mind at ease.

Dealing with Cracked and Bleeding Nipples

If you are feeling pain or discomfort around your nipples then know that it is natural.
Breastfeeding can be tough to get used to, especially if this is your first child. Do the best you
can, and after you are done, you can start to repair that area by adding a warm compress,
which can be done by placing a washcloth over the nipples and then patting dry afterward. You
can also try a salt water rinse from a mixture of salt and warm water. Apply it to the area and pat
dry afterward.

Try to avoid using ointments that aren’t made out of 100% lanolin. Ointments that combine
mixed ingredients can dry out the area and make the discomfort even worse. Also, you may
have heard of adding wet tea bags to the area but those can also dry out the skin.

Coming to Terms with Pregnancy Weight Gain

Yes, you will likely add on a little weight during pregnancy, but it is not the end of the world. You
can burn a lot of calories by simply taking a walk with your baby around the block a couple of
times per day once you are feeling up to it. Also, watch what you eat. You may still get cravings,
but avoid trans-fats and heavy meals that can make you feel lethargic. Remember to eat healthy
for your sake and the sake of the baby.

As you can see, there are ways to deal with the issues you may face during the 4th trimester.
Remember to take it easy after a C-section, try a self-pumping bra, and be patient with
breastfeeding, and you will make it through this time.

If you would like to learn more about the
services here at Mary the Medicine Woman then contact us at maryssheehan@gmail.com.