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Congratulations! You had the positive pregnancy test in the first trimester, completed the anatomy scan and glucose test in the second, and now, after giving birth you’re finally in your 4th trimester! Did you even know there is a fourth trimester?
The “4th trimester” is the physical and emotional changes your body goes through up to 12 weeks after giving birth. Some of these changes you might have heard about, and others may be a complete surprise.
As a mom of two little ones, I expected what I heard from my doctor and other moms, like some vaginal bleeding and mood swings. But what I discovered was SO much more! Lochia, continued contractions, and postpartum breast changes completely took me by surprise. So, let’s talk about it!
After getting home from the hospital, I went to use the bathroom and the first thought that came to mind was “What is that awful smell?” As a first-time mom then, I called the hospital thinking there was an infection. The registered nurse explained the smell and discharge is called lochia – and it’s completely normal!
Lochia is the vaginal discharge you have after giving birth accompanied by the post-partum vaginal bleeding. It has a stale, musty odor like menstrual discharge, but can be stronger in smell. Blood clots, no larger than the size of a plum, are also to be expected with lochia. Post-partum bleeding should subside by 6 weeks after giving birth.
It is important to use pads, not tampons, during your post-partum bleeding as nothing should be inserted vaginally for at least 6 weeks. You may have increased lochia when you first get up in the morning, when you are physically active, or when you are breastfeeding.
Additionally, it is vital to abstain from vaginal intercourse until your OBGYN clears you, even if you have a c-section. Having sex prior to being cleared can increase your risk for infection, longer recovery time, and pain or discomfort.
Contractions, or afterpains, are something I also thought I would be done with after giving birth. However, I learned you can also have them a few days to 6 weeks after giving birth.
These contractions often feel like menstrual cramps and they are helpful! They put pressure on the blood vessels in the uterus to keep you from bleeding too much. These contractions are common during breastfeeding. Breastfeeding releases the hormone oxytocin, which not only causes you to have a “let-down” but triggers the uterus to contract, too.
A few days after giving birth, I woke up from a nap while my newborn was sleeping, and my breasts were extremely swollen and painful. It felt like I had golf balls in my breasts. This is called breast engorgement.
Breast engorgement is breast swelling that usually includes feelings of warmth, hardness, or heaviness in the breasts. It is caused by increased circulation to the breasts and can happen as your milk comes in after giving birth.
The pain and swelling can last for a few days as your breasts adapt to your breastfeeding routine. If you are not looking to breastfeed, cabbage leaves in your bra are encouraged to stop the production of breastmilk.
If you are looking to ease the pain of engorgement after giving birth and are trying to breastfeed, skip the gel breastfeeding pads and opt for a heating pad or blanket. I found with my second child that it was a lot easier and effective as I didn’t have to keep microwaving the gel pads. Hot showers and a supportive bra can also help.
It’s important to note that you do not want to run to your breast pump to help with engorgement pain. When you pump, it signals to your body that you need to produce more milk to feed your baby. Over-pumping can increase the engorgement pain instead of relieving it.
If you have more questions, please reach out to your OBGYN and don’t be embarrassed! The 4th trimester can be a confusing time for you and your body as you transition into this new season of life. Give it time and give yourself grace as you adjust.
Try talking to other moms about your experience. Sharing your experience can open doors in the mom world and can help you really connect with another mom who is feeling just as unsure. Because knowing what’s normal can make all the difference.
Here’s a private Facebook group I enjoy: Alcove Moms. Just click the link, answer the questions, and join us for “all things mom.”
If you’d like help with free baby supplies after giving birth, call or visit our appointment page to request material needs assistance. Here at Alcove Health Women’s Clinic, we’re happy to help you as you plan to care for your newborn!
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