Dear Mama,

In planning for your little one, please do not overlook the postpartum period, or the 4th trimester. This term, 4th trimester, was coined by Dr. Harvey Karp in 2002. It finally recognized that moms and babies need an additional three months to adjust to their new world.

We were superheroes in just delivering this baby. Postpartum, we have to deal with hormonal imbalances, breastfeeding challenges, mood adjustments, exhaustion, and physical healing, all while supporting a precious newborn. This can be challenging and honestly, this is reality. Adding to the difficulty of this period is all the information out there. Trying to figure out the right information for your family can be overwhelming and exhausting.

It does not have to be this way. You are the foundation for your newborn. Evidence based studies have shown that infant and childhood development is dependent on maternal well being. Your physical and mental health is important in this 4th trimester period. You will face challenges but should feel supported and important. Eliminate the noise around the postpartum period and enjoy time with your newborn and your new family.

My coaching approach is holistic channeling my eastern culture with western medical training. I am also nurturing and realistic. We discuss everything from breastfeeding, safe sleep, maternal physical and mental healing, to the importance of right nutrition, and finding time with your partner. Let’s navigate the 4th trimester together.

For NICU families, the NICU is a roller-coaster ride, days of highs and lows. Even if you were there for one day of 3 months, discharge can be scary. With my 10 year NICU experience, let me help you transition into your home, from meeting your breastfeeding goals to maneuvering the medical world for those complex warriors.

In motherhood solidarity,
Dr. Patel