The Fourth Trimester

By now, most people have heard of the #fourthtrimester. During this time of #postpartum, there are endless feelings and emotions. Feeling nervous but excited; exhausted yet fueled; thankful but envious, are just a few familiar emotions most mom’s feel. I recently saw a video on the #peanut page on Instagram, and it showed a mom who wants company, but wants to be alone; feels resentment towards her spouse, yet thankful for his existence; thankful for a bundle of joy, but missing her old life; happy for her friends, yet envious. I felt these sentiments in my soul.

Rather you had a vaginal birth or a #csection, your feelings are valid, mama. Sure, the healing process may be different, but emotionally, we have faced the same emotions at some point. As a mom of two littles, and a proud #csection warrior, I can say that each pregnancy is different, and every recovery period is different.

Let’s get real here. As a #blackmom, we are told to be strong; we’re told that we can handle it. While these things may be true, sometimes you don’t want to have to be strong. Sometimes, you want to feel your feelings and feel human. I mean, an entire human just came out of your body, so the hormonal change is out of this world. What I have learned in this fourth trimester versus my last, is to accept the help, and ask for help. I know it’s weird to put yourself in position to do so, but it makes a difference. I have dealt with the emotional rollercoaster mentioned above, on top of high blood pressure. Once prescribed medication to level out my blood pressure, it was at that point where I had to do a lot of self talk, and keep it honest with my circle about my feelings. I may be a Black woman, but I’m a believer in Jesus, therapy, keeping my circle tight, ice cream, and coffee. It’s those things that helped me get through.

If you’re a mom who is experiencing your fourth trimester, you’re not alone girlfriend. If you know someone who recently had a baby, take them a meal, flowers, “I’m proud of you” card, or a simple phone call just to make sure they’re as good as can be.

There’s honestly no preparation for what you’re going to experience, and there’s no shame! We must give ourselves some credit and grace! No matter where you are in your fourth trimester, know that you have a mommy friend who knows and understands. I have felt every feeling and emotion and have talked them through. Be honest with yourself, your circle, and your therapist. You’re doing great, girlfriend!

Sprinkled with Love,

Brittany