Preparing for the Fourth Trimester: What Happens After Baby Arrives

The journey of pregnancy and birth is an intense, transformative experience, but it doesn’t end when your baby is born. In fact, the period immediately after birth—often called the fourth trimester—is just as important for both you and your baby.

At Attuned Midwifery Service, we understand that this transition can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. That's why we focus not only on your pregnancy and birth, but also on the postpartum period, helping you navigate everything from physical recovery to emotional adjustment.

Here’s what you can expect in the fourth trimester and how we’re here to support you during this pivotal time.

What Is the Fourth Trimester?

The term "fourth trimester" refers to the first 12 weeks postpartum, during which you and your baby are adjusting to life outside the womb. For your baby, it’s a time of rapid growth and development, while for you, it’s about physical recovery, emotional adjustment, and settling into the new rhythm of parenthood.

Although birth is the beginning of your baby’s life, it’s also the beginning of a new chapter for you as a parent. And like any new journey, it requires care, patience, and support.

What to Expect After Baby Arrives

🌱 Physical Recovery for the Birthing Parent

Your body has been through a major transformation, and the fourth trimester is about allowing it to heal, adjust, and regain strength. Here's what you'll experience:

1. Lochia (Postpartum Bleeding)

Just like a period, you will experience vaginal bleeding as your body sheds the lining of the uterus. This can last up to 6 weeks, and we monitor it closely to ensure it's within a healthy range.

2. Uterine Contractions

After birth, your uterus will shrink back to its normal size. You may experience afterpains, which can feel like mild contractions. This is especially common if you've had more than one child.

3. Breastfeeding

For many, breastfeeding is a learning process for both parent and baby. We’ll support you with lactation guidance and ensure you’re comfortable and confident with your feeding routine.

4. Perineal Healing

If you had vaginal birth, perineal care is essential. Whether you had tearing or an episiotomy, your midwife will help you with techniques for healing, comfort, and monitoring for any complications.

5. Hormonal Changes

Your hormones will fluctuate as your body adjusts to life after pregnancy. It's common to experience mood swings, night sweats, and a shift in energy levels during this time.

🧠 Emotional Wellbeing in the Fourth Trimester

The emotional shift after birth can be intense. It’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions, from joy and love to fatigue and frustration. Here’s how we support you emotionally:

1. Baby Blues vs. Postpartum Depression

The “baby blues” are common and typically resolve within the first few weeks after birth. However, if you find that sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness persist, we’ll help you identify the signs of postpartum depression and connect you with mental health resources.

2. Bonding with Baby

It’s important to take time to bond with your newborn through skin-to-skin contact, responsive feeding, and gentle baby care. We help facilitate a connection that respects both your needs and your baby’s cues.

3. Relationship Changes

Your relationship with your partner may also shift during the fourth trimester. We encourage open communication and self-care for both partners as you navigate the changes and challenges of new parenthood.

What to Expect for Your Baby

👶 Rapid Growth and Development

In these first three months, your baby will undergo tremendous changes. Here’s a quick overview:

1. Feeding

Whether breastfeeding or formula feeding, your baby will need to eat frequently. Babies grow quickly during this period, and they may nurse or feed every 2-3 hours. We’re here to guide you through infant feeding options, troubleshooting, and any challenges.

2. Sleeping

Newborns sleep a lot—but not in long stretches! Expect your baby to sleep 16-18 hours a day in small blocks. We help you establish safe sleep practices and adjust to your baby’s changing sleep needs.

3. Physical Development

You’ll see your baby begin to gain strength—lifting their head, tracking objects with their eyes, and starting to make small sounds. Every day brings new milestones!

4. Crying and Soothing

Crying is a normal part of baby development. We’ll teach you strategies to help soothe your baby when they’re fussy and show you how to recognize different cries (hungry, tired, overstimulated, etc.).

How We Support You During the Fourth Trimester

At Attuned Midwifery Service, our support continues long after the birth. Here’s how we help:

🌿 Postpartum Visits

We offer postpartum checkups in the comfort of your home, where we can:

• Monitor your physical healing

• Address any breastfeeding concerns

• Check in on your emotional wellbeing

• Answer questions about baby care

• Offer referrals for any additional support you may need

💡 Emotional Support

We’re here to talk about how you’re feeling—whether you’re experiencing joy, frustration, or everything in between. We provide resources and refer you to mental health professionals if needed.

🤱 Breastfeeding & Newborn Care Support

Whether you're breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, we support your infant feeding goals with personalized advice and practical tips to ensure a smooth feeding experience.

Final Thoughts

The fourth trimester is an important time of recovery, bonding, and adjustment. While it can feel overwhelming at times, remember you are not alone. At Attuned Midwifery Service, we’re here to walk alongside you, providing emotional, physical, and practical support as you transition into this exciting new chapter of life.