One Week Postpartum Thoughts

First week postpartum and I must admit it’s been a whirlwind of a journey. This being my 3rd c-section I remembered some discomforts and “things” that may happen in the days and weeks to follow. I knew my physical limitations would be many and my dependence on others would be necessary, but what I didn’t realize or remember fully were the emotions or pains that would follow. 


I had a partial sense of recognition or remembrance to the “things” that were forthcoming but our minds have a way of blocking the bad so that the good can stay. First and foremost- empty shell.


The feeling is real despite all the aches and pains associated with the third trimester. I carried this precious baby for 9 months and though I’m cradling him in my arms as I type this I miss the internal feelings. The morning jabs, hiccups, quick moves, and indescribable positions during the day somehow brought me so much comfort.
As I begin this new breastfeeding journey I must admit I forgot the nerve pinching, foot tapping, jaw clinching pain during the first few latches but instantly remembered the comfort of having my baby’s skin on mine, being able to provide nutrition and comfort to him, and the quiet moments together just gazing at one another.


C-section pain.... can we skip that one.. on a real note- my brain and body chose to remember this in bits and pieces. If you’ve ever had a c-section you know that laughing, sneezing, and coughing are all curse words! You never realize the use of your abdominal muscles in those actions until you have none left! I know it takes time but I’m married to a big jokester and laughing ultimately results in crying so all jokes are on hold in our house.


Unexplainable Crying- my brain partially blocked that one too. Can I be honest here? I’ve cried at least 6 times today for no apparent reason.. dancing and crying, rocking my baby and crying, sitting in bed and crying... I’m sure you get the gist.


Body image- my belly went from housing a watermelon to now a squishy half deflated bouncy ball. My incision looks like a battle wound, the brown line is still there, and my belly button can now go back to collecting lent. I’m definitely adjusting to this new body but guess what?! It took 9 months to grow my precious baby and it endured a major surgery- it’s going to take time for it to go back to pre baby and I’m ok with that. 
This all may seem like a ramble and for the most part it is but guess what- all of this is normal! There is an endless list of “things” we as moms experience postpartum that are often left off social media, undermined, brushed off, or honestly just not talked about and it’s sad that society is that way. Postpartum is a journey that’s not always pretty. Our bodies, minds, and entire lives are changing and though that journey is different for each of us it’s so important that we embrace each “thing” one step at a time, encourage one another, and know that a lot of what you are feeling is completely normal and to not be afraid to ask for help!

 

-Kelsey Spelce, @kelsey.spelce

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