The first 3 months after having a baby can be referred to as the ‘fourth trimester’. After birth, your pregnancy hormones slowly leave your body and your body returns towards its pre-pregnancy state.

How your body recovers from pregnancy depends on many factors. It is important to take time to look after yourself as well as your baby. To help you adjust to becoming a new mother:

rest when your baby is resting
minimise visitors
ask or accept help from friends or family – this could be accepting meals or help with childminding, housework, shopping or cooking
make time to breath and relax.

During this time your body is working towards its pre-pregnant state, both physically and emotionally.

Read more about the physiotherapy services available to support you after you have given birth at Fiona Stanley Hospital.