4th Trimester

My baby is two weeks old and seems so attached to me already. I love her and enjoy our time together, but I don’t want to spoil her or not be able to get other stuff done. Any suggestions?

Welcome to the 4th trimester! This is the time period between birth and 12 weeks postpartum. Don’t worry about spoiling your baby—it is not possible during infancy. She was kept safe and warm inside your womb, where she heard your voice and the rhythm of your heartbeat every minute of every day for nine months. Now she is adjusting to life on the outside, as a separate individual. It is normal for her to need to be close to you, including being comforted at the breast.

Baby’s Development

Your baby’s brain and nervous system are developing during this crucial time. Her eyesight is maturing and she is gradually able to see more clearly. She is learning to control her body movements and gaining muscle strength. She's growing rapidly and gaining weight, with several growth spurts expected in her first three months.

Crying is her way of communicating, and you may notice an increase in crying during this time. Responding to your baby’s needs promotes healthy development and leads to feelings of trust and security.

Some of your baby’s best development occurs when she is sleeping, and she is sleeping a lot. Despite this, you are still exhausted—figuring out a routine so you can get some sleep is difficult. Learning about her sleep patterns and other states of consciousness is very beneficial.

You can support your baby’s development by holding her often and providing comfort and nourishment through breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact. For more information on your baby’s development, click here.

How Moms May Feel

Ideally, you will be able to spend the first 12 weeks at home with your baby, have lots of support and focus only on your baby and breastfeeding. You’re still healing from childbirth and haven’t been cleared to resume normal activities yet. However, many moms find themselves needing to return to work before the 4th trimester ends.

Being your baby’s primary caregiver can be overwhelming, and sometimes support is limited. Make sure to ask for help and call your doctor if you experience any postpartum depression symptoms. Taking care of yourself is important so that you are able to be the best mom you can be.

Your dedication to your baby and breastfeeding is giving her a wonderful start in life. Helping her transition from womb to world is truly a gift. “A mother’s arms are made of tenderness, and children sleep soundly in them.” ―Victor Hugo

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Source:
https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/4th-trimester#what-you-can-do 

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