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What to expect and how to care for yourself after giving birth

by Zeni

Just having recently given birth to my fourth child, I can tell you, with each and every birth , calls for a scene of personal care on different levels. I am 38 years and this pregnancy and after are of myself is totally different. I have learned that I must take a few moments out for "Mommy". My new-born takes quit a bit of time, but, I must do he same for myself.

I am writing from my own personal experience and how I am dealing with myself after giving birth. Some of what of what I write you will agree with and some you will not, but I think it's good and practical, and works pretty well for me. Who knows, maybe you will take some of what I have written and use it, I do hope it helps. You may even modify some of what I do for myself, instead of a few stolen moments of "Mommy time" you may be fortunate enough to get an hour. If you do I am cheering or you in the back ground with a huge smile.

Many times, we mothers be it first time and not, feel it is necessary to devote each and every minute to our new born, this is not so. I have found that I too must keep myself somewhat rested, or I can not function well. Instead of doing laundry twice a week, it is now down to once a week and that can be any day. Dusting keeping the house tidy, instead of a daily routine, like I once had, it's down to ," After I have my shower, and a quick cup of tea", that is when the dusting gets done now. I do not feel bad about it. Nor shall I allow anyone else to make me feel as if I am not doing enough.

Expect to be overwhelmed, it happens, and when it does..."Stop" take a deep breathe and count to ten or more if needed. Calm down. When the baby is a bit older, and on a regular schedule things will slowly get back to normal. Remember you "Just had baby" it took nine months for your body to form this wonderful little being, and it will take several more months for it to get back to what it once was, but better.



Keep an eye out for the crying or the "weeping" feeling, it happens after we give birth sometimes. Then as sudden as that feeling came it vanishes. But if your ever feeling really down, do have a chat with someone like your health care professional, that is what hey are there for "Your well being". If your fortunate to have a friend or someone to help you, so not be afraid to ask for it. If your friends and family offer to help by all means let them. I can not stress that enough, do not try to be a superwoman now.



So, in closing I must say, just try to take it one day at a time. Do not be too hard on yourself. Smile.


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