It’s common knowledge that “tri” signifies three, yet when it comes to pregnancy, it is sometimes considered to actually have four “tri”mesters, including one following childbirth. However, the term “quadmesters” doesn’t have quite the same ring to it.
The “Fourth” Trimester
The fourth trimester is usually referred to as the three months of a baby’s life after birth. During this period, both you and your baby experience significant physical and emotional transformations. Your new one is adapting to life outside the womb while you begin navigating all of the joys and challenges of motherhood. At Raleigh OB/GYN, our aim is to equip you with essential knowledge so that you can confidently nurture your newborn’s well-being while also taking care of your own.
What Does The “Fourth” Trimester Mean?
The fourth trimester is essentially the weeks following birth. It normally extends from the day of birth to around three months postpartum. During this time, you’re going through just about the same amount of changes, if not more, than when you were pregnant. Your body is recovering all while you are learning to care for your newborn. Although the fourth trimester is not actually considered one of the phases of pregnancy, understanding and acknowledging the importance of this time can lead to better care for both the baby and parents.
What Can You Expect During The Fourth Trimester?
In the fourth trimester, moms are recovering from childbirth and may be experiencing soreness, cramping, healing of wounds, and will experience several weeks of postpartum bleeding. Not to mention that mothers must go through immense emotional adjustment. Many women report feelings of exhaustion, anxiety, and self-doubt. Although these are all valid emotions to have, they are common due to hormonal fluctuations, sleep deprivation, and the trials and tribulations of becoming a mother.
How Can You Care For Yourself During The Fourth Trimester?
Postnatal care, also known as postpartum care, is crucial during the fourth trimester for both the baby and the mother. As a new mother, you need to be getting sufficient rest along with a nutritious diet to recover from childbirth and support breastfeeding if you choose to breastfeed. Healthcare professionals such as your OB/GYN play a significant role in monitoring the mother’s physical and emotional health during this period. Additionally, during this time, it is important to create a supportive environment and ask for help if you need it.
How To Soothe A Baby In The Fourth Trimester
Some of the most important information you can possess during the fourth trimester is how to soothe your newborn. Some of our favorite techniques to do so include
- Swaddling, which can mimic the feeling of being in the womb
- Gently rocking or swaying to help them feel relaxed and comforted
- White noise, which can mimic the sounds they heard in the womb
- Holding or cuddling to satisfy their need for physical contact
- Checking for discomfort, such as a soiled diaper
- Feeding, as hunger can be the number one cause of a fussy baby
- Burping to release trapped air that may be causing discomfort
- Pacifier to satisfy your baby’s need to suck
It is important to remember that every baby is unique, and what may work for one baby and mother may not work for another. Pay attention to different techniques and how your baby reacts to each. If you are having trouble soothing your newborn, reach out to your healthcare provider.
Here at Raleigh OB/GYN, we are dedicated to helping you understand every step of your unique pregnancy journey—including postpartum. If you have questions about the fourth trimester, set up an appointment to talk to your doctor. You can schedule an appointment through our website or give us a call at (919) 876-8225.
