“Postpartum doesn’t end after 12 weeks”

Ariana Christie shares her postpartum story.

Canadian influencer, Cali, recently shared a series of photos on Instagram. This gave her over 39,000 followers a peek into her life since Cali was born. The candid photos were captioned with a commentary about the “fourth Trimester,” an unspoken term.

Christie explained that the fourth trimester refers to the 12-week period immediately following having your baby.

She said that after the 12-week period of postpartum, moms often get a lot from their loved ones. However, support begins to fade.

Christie wrote, “After three months, the supports begin to fade, the responsibilities grow, and the needs don’t go away.” “Postpartum doesn’t end after 12 weeks. This definition of the fourth trimester makes us feel like we should have it all together and that we don’t need help or support after that period of time is over.”

“It’s another contradiction we’re faced with,” she continued. “If you’re struggling too much, you’re weak. If you’re looking like you’re doing all right, then you’re fine, and when you’re someone who doesn’t like to ask for help, you’re out of luck.”

Four and a half years after giving birth, the mother of three said that she is only “starting to get the hang” of things.

She added: “Forget the 12-week ‘deadline’ and support the people you love no matter what season of life they’re in.”

The comments thanked Christie for reminding them about early motherhood.

“I love this! I’m seven months postpartum and still feel overwhelmed, unsure and haven’t quite figured out who I am now, other than ‘mom.’ It’s definitely an ongoing process,” an Instagram user commented.

Another wrote: “This IS everything. This is exactly why I am grateful for the mom group that you set up. Moral support, companionship, etc. Motherhood is a lot and it’s nice to know we’re in it together.”

Continue the story

“I feel so happy today!” Thanks for sharing,” someone else shared.

“Love this. “Needs to be discussed more,” added another.

Christie shared photos of her holding her baby girl in her arms in January. She also included an emotional message about motherhood’s “grief”

It is important to honor these feelings. The grief that comes with motherhood is something no one discusses. The sadness at losing what was before this responsibility, and the loneliness that comes along with it,” wrote the self-love advocate. “The loss in who you were once.”

It’s okay to feel what emotions are coming your way. You can be grateful for the good things and allow yourself to grieve or cry. She concluded, “You are doing an amazing job and you are a great mom.”

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