Dear Mama,
Whether you’re expecting or already snuggling your little one, I want to talk about something that doesn’t get nearly enough attention: the fourth trimester.
Those first three months after birth? They’re no joke. You’ve just done the hardest job imaginable—growing and delivering a human—and now your body, hormones, and emotions have all jumped on a rollercoaster. It’s a lot. But here’s the good news: You’re not alone, and there are ways to make this season gentler on yourself.
First things first: Your body has basically run a nine-month marathon. You’ve handed out vitamins, minerals, and energy like party favors, so now it’s time to replenish. Keep taking your postnatal vitamins, eat food that actually fuels you (yes, cold pizza counts in a pinch), and for the love of coffee, hydrate. Coffee may keep you alive, but sadly, it doesn’t count as water.
And then there’s rest. Ah yes, the famous advice: “Sleep when the baby sleeps.” Sweet idea, except sometimes the baby naps for 14 minutes and you’re deciding whether to nap, shower, or scroll in peace. Here’s the truth: Rest in any form matters. Ten minutes on the couch, a quick nap, or just sitting with a hot cup of tea—it all helps. Take what you can get, guilt-free.
Once your doctor clears you, try gentle movement. Not marathon training (unless you count sprinting for the pacifier). A slow walk around the block or stretching while your baby watches the ceiling fan like it’s Broadway—that’s a win.
And please—let people help you. Motherhood was never meant to be a solo act. Lean on your partner, your mom, your neighbor, or that friend who insists on dropping off casseroles. Say yes to the casseroles. Support isn’t a luxury—it’s survival.
Most importantly, listen to your body. Every recovery looks different, and there’s no medal for pretending you’re fine when you’re not. If something feels off—physically or emotionally—speak up. You know yourself best, and you deserve care too.
I know this season can feel overwhelming. You’re healing, adjusting, and figuring out how to keep a tiny human alive while remembering that you’re still human too. Be kind to yourself. Celebrate the little victories (like brushing your hair before noon). And soak up those newborn snuggles—because before you know it, that baby will be running around in mismatched socks or, in my case, filling out college applications.
You’ve got this, Mama. One day—and one cup of coffee—at a time.
Love always,
Another Mama Who Gets It
