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Having a baby comes with many challenges, even when it isn't the first time. As a mom, you know that the focus after birth tends to shift from mother to baby, but that doesn't mean you don't have new mental and physical struggles to address. Consider these postpartum issues and how you can address them efficiently to get through the elusive fourth trimester.

Getting Through the Discomfort of a C-Section

C-sections require significantly more recovery time than vaginal birth. It's major surgery with a serious incision, cutting through more layers of muscle than any other type of surgery. After your hospital stay, you'll need plenty of rest and help from your family so you can avoid putting your body through too much strain. Walking is extremely important post-surgery, as is changing your bandages regularly to keep the wound clean. Follow your postpartum instructions from the hospital carefully to ensure you heal as quickly as possible.

Managing the Hormonal Changes

In the aftermath of birth, your body goes through a variety of hormonal changes very quickly. It can take time to feel like your old self again. Changes in your vitamin and mineral levels can cause shakiness, which is why doctors recommend you continue taking prenatal vitamins postpartum, especially if you breastfeed. It can take up to a year for your hormones to even out again, so give yourself time and talk to your doctor about any difficulty regulating your feelings.

Preparing for Work

Preparing to take time off work is absolutely essential to bonding time with your baby. You have plenty of time during the pregnancy to prepare for that time off and should take advantage of as much of it as you can. Start by speaking with clients and customers about your upcoming leave and who they can contact in your absence. Hire a virtual assistant to take care of communications even when you come back to work. Lessening your workload allows you more time with your baby.

Soothing Nipple Discomfort from Breastfeeding

Nipple discomfort is common for breastfeeding moms. Research shows that you can even develop painful blisters on your nipples caused by a backup of milk in your duct opening. The best way to treat this issue is with a warm washcloth and a simple salt water solution. However, if you continue to have trouble, you should contact your doctor to ensure there are no infection issues. For cracked, sore nipples, read the reviews on nipple creams to find the best options available for soothing bleeding nipples during the first few weeks of breastfeeding.

Accepting Your Changing Body

Trying to understand the drastic physical changes your body faces while dealing with hormonal fluctuations can be challenging. The best way to adjust is to anticipate the changes. The hormones you produce during pregnancy can affect the appearance of everything from your nose to your feet, but remember to be kind to yourself. Your body just created another human being.

As you navigate the fourth trimester, keep your mind open to the things your body needs. If you listen carefully, you'll be able to avoid some of the pains of burnout. Spending less time at work and more time with your baby is a luxury that not everyone has, but if you can, take advantage of as much time off as possible. As your hormones return to normal and you get into a routine, your life with your baby will become less chaotic.