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Why nurturing the mother will have family health benefits?

Why nurturing the mother will have family health benefits?

by | Feb 8, 2023 | Blog

The 4th trimester is a critical time for mothers and families as they navigate the postpartum period. It is important to understand the physical, emotional, and psychological changes that occur during this time, and to provide the necessary support to ensure the best possible outcomes for both mothers and their families. By nurturing the mother, families can reap many benefits that will contribute to their overall health and well-being.

  1. Improved Mental Health: After giving birth, mothers are at a higher risk for depression and anxiety. It is important to support mothers during this time by providing a safe and supportive environment. This can include offering practical help, such as meal preparation, household chores, and baby care, as well as emotional support, such as active listening and empathy. When mothers feel supported and valued, they are more likely to have better mental health outcomes.
  2. Better Physical Health: The physical demands of motherhood can be intense, and it is important to provide the necessary support to ensure that mothers are able to recover from childbirth and return to optimal health. This can include providing adequate rest and sleep, nourishing meals, and help with physical tasks. By nurturing the mother, families can help ensure that she has the energy and resources to care for herself and her family.
  3. Increased Bonding and Attachment: The 4th trimester is a critical time for bonding and attachment between mothers and their infants. By nurturing the mother, families can help create an environment that is conducive to this bonding process. This can include providing opportunities for skin-to-skin contact, offering emotional support, and helping to ensure that mothers have the time and energy to engage in meaningful interactions with their infants.
  4. Better Family Relationships: The postpartum period can bring about changes in family relationships. By nurturing the mother, families can help to ensure that these changes are positive and that relationships remain strong. This can include providing emotional support, offering practical help, and promoting open and honest communication.
  5. Improved Child Development: The first year of life is a critical time for children’s development, and mothers play a crucial role in this process. By nurturing the mother, families can help ensure that children receive the best possible start in life. This can include providing a safe and supportive environment, offering emotional support, and promoting positive parent-child interactions.

As you can see, nurturing the mother during the 4th trimester is critical for the health and well-being of both mothers and their families. By providing the necessary support, families can ensure that mothers have the resources and energy to care for themselves and their families, and that children receive the best possible start in life. Whether it’s through emotional support, practical help, or simply promoting a safe and supportive environment, nurturing the mother will have many benefits that will contribute to the overall health and well-being of the family. By acknowledging and supporting mothers during the 4th trimester, we can improve outcomes for mothers, fathers, and children.

The Difference Between Postpartum Blues, Postpartum Mood Disorders (Postpartum Depression, Postpartum Anxiety), and Postpartum Psychosis

The Difference Between Postpartum Blues, Postpartum Mood Disorders (Postpartum Depression, Postpartum Anxiety), and Postpartum Psychosis

by | Feb 8, 2023 | Blog

The 4th trimester is a critical time for mothers as they navigate the physical, emotional, and psychological changes that come with the postpartum period. During this time, it is important to understand the different types of postpartum mood disorders that can occur and provide the necessary support and resources to ensure the best possible outcomes for both mothers and their families. In this blog, we will explore the difference between postpartum blues, postpartum mood disorders (postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety), and postpartum psychosis.

  1. Postpartum Blues: Postpartum blues is a common experience for many mothers and is characterized by mild to moderate feelings of sadness, anxiety, irritability, and fatigue. These symptoms typically occur in the first two weeks after childbirth and are caused by hormonal changes, fatigue, and the stress of adjusting to life with a new baby. While postpartum blues can be distressing, it is usually a temporary condition that resolves on its own within a few weeks.
  2. Postpartum Mood Disorders: Postpartum mood disorders include postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety and are more severe and longer-lasting than postpartum blues. Postpartum depression is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed. Postpartum anxiety is characterized by persistent feelings of worry, fear, and nervousness. These conditions can be severe and can impact a mother’s ability to care for herself and her baby.
  3. Postpartum Psychosis: Postpartum psychosis is a rare but severe mental illness that can occur in the postpartum period. It is characterized by symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, manic behavior, and psychosis. Postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.

It is important to recognize that these conditions can occur in any mother, regardless of her background or prior mental health history. Moreover, it is important to understand that these conditions are treatable and that there are effective treatments available, such as therapy, medication, and support groups.

Want more? Download a free copy of Dr. Sonal Patel’s bestseller, The Doctor & Her Black Bag: How old fashioned care tackles maternal mortality and benefits America’s economy.

Reasons Why Pelvic Physical Therapy Should Be Part of the 4th Trimester

Reasons Why Pelvic Physical Therapy Should Be Part of the 4th Trimester

by | Feb 8, 2023 | Blog

 

Reasons Why Pelvic Physical Therapy Should Be Part of the 4th Trimester

by Sonal Patel | Feb 8, 2023 | Blog | 0 comments

The 4th trimester is a crucial time for mothers as they navigate the physical, emotional, and psychological changes that come with the postpartum period. During this time, providing the necessary support and resources is important to ensure the best possible outcomes for both mothers and their families. One of these resources is pelvic physical therapy,crucial  also known as pelvic floor therapy, which can help to alleviate pain, improve function, and promote healing after childbirth. In this blog, we will explore the reasons why pelvic physical therapy should be part of the 4th trimester for all mothers.

  1. Alleviates Pain: Childbirth can be a physically demanding experience and can lead to pain and discomfort in the pelvic region. Pelvic physical therapy can help to alleviate this pain by addressing the underlying causes, such as muscle imbalances, weakened muscles, and joint restrictions. Through a combination of manual therapy techniques and exercise, pelvic physical therapy can help to reduce pain and improve function.
  2. Improves Function: The pelvic region is composed of many different muscles and joints, and childbirth can cause these structures to become imbalanced or weakened. Pelvic physical therapy can help to restore function by addressing these imbalances and promoting healing. This can help to improve physical function, such as walking, standing, and sitting, and reduce the risk of future pelvic pain and discomfort.
  3. Promotes Healing: Childbirth can cause injury and trauma to the pelvic region, and it is important to provide the necessary support to promote healing. Pelvic physical therapy can help to facilitate the healing process by addressing any physical impairments and promoting proper alignment and function. This can help to prevent future pain and discomfort, and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
  4. Enhances Recovery: The postpartum period is a critical time for mothers to focus on their own recovery and well-being. Pelvic physical therapy can enhance this recovery by addressing any physical impairments and promoting optimal function by restoring pelvic floor muscles. This can help mothers to feel their best and be at their best as they care for themselves and their families.
  5. Prevents Future Complications: Childbirth can lead to a range of physical complications caused by pelvic floor dysfunction, including urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual dysfunction. Pelvic physical therapy can help prevent these complications by addressing physical impairments and promoting optimal function. By doing so, mothers can reduce their risk of future complications and improve their overall health and well-being.

Pelvic physical therapy is an important resource for mothers during the 4th trimester. By addressing pain, improving function, promoting healing, enhancing recovery, preventing future pelvic floor disorder, pelvic physical therapy can help mothers to feel their best and be at their best as they navigate the postpartum period. By incorporating pelvic health into the 4th trimester, mothers can receive the necessary support to ensure the best possible outcomes for themselves and their families. Whether it is through manual therapy techniques, exercise, or a combination of both, pelvic physical treatment is an essential component of the 4th trimester for all mothers. Consult with referring physicians to discuss who can refer you to a pelvic physical therapist and rehabilitation services or contact us at NayaCare, to talk about a plan that works for you. To learn more about the anatomy and physiology of pelvic therapy and what you can start doing right away in the 4th trimester, click here Postpartum Pelvic Floor 101 with Ashely Zimmerman, PT, Dpt.

Want more? Download a free copy of Dr. Sonal Patel’s bestseller, The Doctor & Her Black Bag: How old fashioned care tackles maternal mortality and benefits America’s economy old-fashioned.

Do fathers go through patrescence?

Do fathers go through patrescence?

by | Feb 8, 2023 | Blog

On an episode of the Golden Mic Podcast with Marc Cordon, Dr. Sonal Patel talked about the idea of patrescence as being a similar transformation as matrescence.

Patrescence is a term used to describe the spiritual, emotional, and psychological changes that occur in fathers during the postpartum period. The term patrescence was first introduced by Dr. Will Courtenay, a clinical psychologist, and has since gained recognition as an important aspect of postpartum care for fathers. It is important to understand the changes that occur during patrescence in order to better support fathers during this transition.

Just as mothers experience physical, emotional, and psychological changes during matrescence, fathers also experience changes as they adjust to their new role as a parent. During patrescence, fathers may experience a range of emotions, such as stress, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy. These emotions can result from a variety of factors, including the adjustment to the responsibilities of parenthood, the pressure to provide financially for the family, and a shift in priorities.

  1. Changes in Identity: During patrescence, fathers may experience changes in their identity as they adjust to their new role as a parent. This can include feelings of loss of self, uncertainty about their abilities as a parent, and a shift in priorities. Fathers may also experience a sense of displacement as they navigate their new role and responsibilities. It is important for fathers to seek support from others during this time and to understand that these feelings are normal.
  2. Emotional Changes: The emotional changes that occur during patrescence can be intense and difficult to navigate. Many fathers experience feelings of anxiety, stress, and irritability. This can be caused by the pressure to provide for their family, the adjustment to the responsibilities of parenthood, and the stress of caring for a newborn. It is important for fathers to seek support from friends and family, and to talk to their healthcare provider if they are feeling overwhelmed.
  3. Changes in Relationships: The postpartum period can also bring about changes in relationships for fathers. Fathers may experience tension in their relationships with their partners, as they navigate the new roles and responsibilities of parenthood. Relationships with friends and family may also change as fathers prioritize their role as a parent. It is important for fathers to communicate their needs and to seek support from their loved ones during this time.
  4. The Importance of Involvement: Research has shown that fathers who are actively involved in the care of their newborn have better outcomes for both the father and the child. Fathers who take an active role in the care of their newborn experience increased bonding and a sense of connection with their child. They also report increased satisfaction with their role as a parent and better mental health outcomes. Examples can include changing diapers or skin to skin with their newborns.  Even with breastfeeding, if fathers view the outcome as providing optimal nutrition for their newborn, helping out with cleaning breast equipment, feeding the mother, and helping with the latch and hold are all great ways to be involved.  

Patrescence is an important aspect of postpartum care that should not be overlooked. Understanding the spiritual, emotional, and psychological changes that occur during this time can help fathers better navigate the postpartum period. It is important for fathers to seek support and care during this transition, and to understand that these changes are normal and a natural part of the patrescence process. If you are a father and are feeling overwhelmed, it is important to reach out to your healthcare provider for help or contact us to help navigate your needs and right care. 

By acknowledging and supporting fathers during the postpartum period, we can improve outcomes for fathers, mothers, and children.

Do fathers go through patrescence?

The answer is yes.

Want more? Download a free copy of Dr. Sonal Patel’s bestseller, The Doctor & Her Black Bag: How old fashioned care tackles maternal mortality and benefits America’s economy.

5 things that happen with matrescence

5 things that happen with matrescence

by | Feb 8, 2023 | Blog

Matrescence is a term used to describe the new motherhood experience and the physical, emotional, and psychological changes that occur in a woman’s body during the postpartum period. The term matrescence was first coined by Dr. Alexandra Sacks, a reproductive psychiatrist, and used by researchers such as Dr Aurelie Athan from the Department of Counseling and Clinical Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University in New York, and author of “The Postnatal Depletion Cure: A Complete Guide to Rebuilding Your Health and Reclaiming Your Energy for Mothers of Newborns, Toddlers, and Young Children” Dr Oscar Serrallach has since gained recognition as an important aspect of postpartum care. This transition can be a challenging time for many mothers, but it is important to understand the changes that occur during matrescence in order to better navigate the postpartum period. 

In an article by matrescence activist Amy Taylor Kabbaz points to medical anthropologist Dana Raphael’s take on matrescence.

“The critical transition period which has been missed is matrescence — the time of mother-becoming,” Raphael said. “Giving birth does not automatically make a mother out of a woman … The amount of time it takes to become a mother needs study.”

As a result, it is impowertant for everyone to know what happens during matrescence and how to navigate through a time of identity, physical, emotional and pscyhological changes in a new mother, and how to support her.

Here are 5 things that happen with matrescence:

  1. Hormonal Changes: One of the biggest changes that occur during matrescence is hormonal fluctuations. After giving birth, women experience a rapid decline in hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which can result in physical symptoms such as mood swings, headaches, fatigue, and hot flashes. Hormonal changes also play a role in the development of postpartum depression and anxiety, so it is important for mothers to be aware of these changes and to seek help if necessary.
  2. Physical Recovery: The physical recovery from giving birth can be a long and challenging process. During early motherhood, women may experience discomfort and pain as their bodies heal from the birth process. This can include abdominal soreness, pelvic pain, and incision pain if a woman had a cesarean section. Birthing mothers may also experience difficulty with bladder control, vaginal dryness, and sexual dysfunction. It is important for women to take care of themselves physically during this time and understand that it’s ok to be selfish about sleep, naps, and just lying down. Drinking adequate water, water with electrolytes and nutrition are key in long term healing. Snacks, fruits, and nuts are easy options for in between the three meals. Seek help if any concerns arise that make you worried or uncomfortable. Don’t forget to ask for a pelvic physical therapist referral at your 6 week postpartum appointment.
  3. Emotional Changes: The emotional changes that occur during matrescence can be intense and difficult to navigate after birth. Many women experience feelings of sadness, postnatal depression, anxiety, guilt, and irritability. This can be caused by hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and the stress of adjusting to life with a new baby. It is important for women to seek support from friends and family. Be open with your feelings with your partner and to talk to their healthcare provider if emotions are overwhelming. Seeking a postpartum doula or therapist is also a great option for maintaining wellbeing.
  4. Changes in Identity: During matrescence, the new mother identity may feel like having an entirely new identity as they adjust to their new role as a mother. This can include feelings of loss of self, uncertainty about their abilities as a parent, and a shift in priorities. It is important for women to seek support from others during this time, and to understand that these feelings are normal.
  5. Changes in Relationships: The postpartum period can also bring about changes in relationships. Women may experience tension in their relationships with their partners, as they navigate the roles as new parents and responsibilities of parenthood. Relationships with friends and family may also change as women prioritize their role as a mother. It is important for women to communicate their needs and to seek support from their loved ones during this time.

Matrescence is an important aspect of a mother’s birth story. As such, it becomes an important part of the identity of any birthing person. As a result, postpartum care should not be overlooked. Understanding the physical, emotional, and psychological changes that occur during this time can help mothers better navigate the postpartum period. It is important for women to seek support and care during this transition, and to understand that these changes are normal and a natural part of the matrescence process. Additionally, the good enough mother approach is important for the new mom to be sincere in her preoccupation with being a mother and provide a holding environment that is attuned to her child’s changing needs during the fourth trimester. If you are a mother and are feeling overwhelmed, it is important to reach out to your healthcare provider for help or contact us to help navigate your needs and right care. Interestingly enough, fathers go through their own transformation entitled patrescence .

Want more? Download a free copy of Dr. Sonal Patel’s bestseller, The Doctor & Her Black Bag: How old fashioned care tackles maternal mortality and benefits America’s economy.