The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recently published Committee Opinion Number 736, released May 2018, which recommends Optimizing Postpartum Care. We birth workers and pre/post-natal yoga teachers have been talking about this “fourth trimester” and the importance of postpartum care for new mothers well after the birth of her baby and well beyond the typical 6-week postpartum check-up. “This Committee Opinion has been revised to reinforce the importance of the “fourth trimester” and to process a new paradigm for postpartum care.” In ACOG’s No. 736 Abstract (replaces No. 666, June 2016), the following published statements are especially exciting to me: “To optimize the health of women and infants, postpartum care should become an ongoing process, rather than a single encounter, with services and support tailored to each woman’s individual needs.” ACOG also discusses financial responsibility which may make Insurance companies’ eyebrows furrow, “Changes in the scope of postpartum care should be facilitated by reimbursement policies that support postpartum care as an ongoing process, rather than an isolated visit.” Here is where I start doing cart-wheels, “…the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that the timing of the comprehensive postpartum visit be individualized and woman centered. To better meet the needs of women in the postpartum period, care would ideally include an initial assessment, either in person or by phone, within the first 3 weeks postpartum to address acute postpartum issues. This initial assessment should be followed up with ongoing care as needed, concluding with a comprehensive well-woman visit no later than 12 weeks after birth. Insurance coverage policies should be aligned to support this tailored approach to the “fourth trimester” care (see Policy and Postpartum Care).” Whoah. I still do the ‘Happy Dance’ after I read that! Out of curiosity, has ACOG hired more women? I am happy to see ACOG finally coming on-board with a formal Committee opinion in an effort to change postpartum medical practice as well as affect policy changes for financial reimbursement. I haven’t been this excited over an ACOG opinion since they revised their decision about VBAC births! Although change make take time before we see it materialize into practice, this recognition of the Fourth Trimester is a step in the right direction! (Replaces Committee Opinion Number 666, June 2016)
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Bringing a child into this world can be one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have as a woman. The idea of birthing a new soul and bringing life to our community is something most women have dreamt of since they were little girls.
However, having a child can also be very overwhelming with all of the tasks and things on your to-do list that must be done. Unless you have had a couple of children already and are a seasoned pro at this, you are going to have a lot of work on your plate that can feel a bit stressful (especially if you still have to work a full time job). This is where having a life coach can come in handy. While many people may assume or associate life coaching as someone who helps you “fix your life”, this is not fully accurate. While the coaching industry has made its name with helping people get their lives back on track, the truth is that a life coach uses certain techniques and skills to help their clients accomplish their goals regardless of their circumstances. Even the most successful executives, athletes, and Hollywood elite use coaches to support them. Some of the main methods a coach uses are: 1. Active Listening & Empathy This is where the coach is able to connect with their client on a deeper level to truly understand what it is they want to accomplish so they can help them find clarity and get unstuck. 2. Setting Goals Once the coach has helped you get clear on what it is you want to accomplish, they will then be able to assist you in identifying and prioritizing your goals. 3. Chunking After you have made a list of what your goals are, a life coach will help you break them down into bitesize steps so that they do not overwhelm you so that they are more manageable on a daily and weekly basis. 4. Support & Encouragement As you begin to tackle your goals on your road to success, there will be lots of twists and turns that come up that could potentially throw you off your game. It is now when your coach can provide support and encouragement so you can face your fears and overcome adversities. So to summarize, a life coach is someone who understands what you want to accomplish and supports you along that journey making the process easier and more enjoyable. Isn’t that what all moms need during their pregnancy? So if you are feeling a bit overwhelmed and scattered, try working with a life coach. Many professionals also offer online coaching services making it easy for you to gain access to them from the comfort of your home or smart phone. Contact Coach Sam at the Coaching Institute for more information: http://coachinginst.com/contact/ |
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