Mama Muse • Yvonne Sim
"... it helped with my sanity when seeing loved ones visit, the chatting helps and sometimes for them to help mind the baby while I can simply take my time showering."
Introduction
I am 43 years old, a mother of one. I work full time in finance. Outside of work, I spend most of my time with my son exploring new playgrounds, at playdates and now that Jonathan is little older, at times he’ll decides what he would like to do on the weekends. Growing up, I have always wanted to be a mother but somehow the inclination wasn’t as strong anymore. It felt more like it is the right thing to do as a married woman. We started trying and we are very lucky that the process didn’t take too long.
What was your favourite thing about the newborn phase?
- the smell!! And how tiny everything is – hand, feet, clothing etc…
- the juggle – feeding, cleaning, pumping, soothing a crying baby without know why the baby is crying
- I had a confinement lady during the first couple of months, she is very experienced and truly supported me a great deal. Amidst the chaos, I somehow felt that I was not alone, I could take a nap (in peace) when I was tired. If I can turn back time, I would have her help me for longer, at least until I am more familiar with the rhythm of caring of my newborn.
Top 3 essentials would be:
- prepped meals ready to heat up and eat,
- postpartum massages which helped with the water retention and blocked milk duct
- practical help from family and friends (eg visits/food delivery/help with baby etc.. ) – it helped with my sanity when seeing loved ones visit, the chatting helps and sometimes for them to help mind the baby while I can simply take my time showering.
Are there any rituals or practices during your 4th trimester you'd like to share?
During the 4th trimester, the first 4-5 weeks, I didn’t leave the house apart from visiting the Dr. I did wash my hair but I dried them with hairdryer right after and wear warm clothes including socks at all time. I refrained from consuming cold food and drinks. I had red dates drink for about 3 months after delivery.
See Instagram post here.