What is the 4th Trimester?

The three-month period following the birth of your baby, that is the 12 weeks after delivery, is called the fourth trimester. Just as the pregnancy trimesters are important and you must visit your doctor as scheduled, the fourth trimester needs similar attention too. You and your baby are adjusting to a new life. The baby is experiencing the outside world for the first time while you are adapting to motherhood. With such big changes going on, it is easy to see why you must be extra careful now. 

Think of it as extended pregnancy!

Dr. Harvey Karp, who coined the term ‘fourth trimester’, explains how the baby needs to experience the same comfort and security as they did in the womb. Mothers must treat the fourth trimester as an extension of the pregnancy while caring for the newborn. Here’s what the baby needs during the fourth trimester:

• A fetus–like environment: That means, warm and cozy. Swaddling with soft, comfy blankets can mimic the womb’s enclosed comfy space for the little one

• Gentle movement: Baby is used to your moving around all day with them inside. They find the ‘ride’ comforting and soothing. Swaying motions and gentle jiggling mimic the same for them now. A cross-body baby sling helps you give the baby this sensation.

• Skin contact: Baby has been experiencing your smell and hearing your voice in the womb. Give them skin-to-skin for the same feeling of closeness and talk or sing to soothe them. There is no risk of ‘spoiling’ the baby with too much cuddling at this stage. So, go right on and cuddle all you want. 

Don’t forget to prioritize yourself in taking care of the little one. Investing time in your mental health and physical recovery is as crucial. Get plenty of rest and sleep whenever you get the time and eat healthily. Ask your partner to take care of the baby while you can relax for at least half an hour by yourself. Do what you like such as listening to music or reading or walking to keep yourself energized for motherhood. Keep in touch with your doctor and don’t miss your post-partum doctor visits at any cost because they’ll help you measure how well you are recovering.