PostpartumWellness

Honoring the Fourth Trimester

Jan 10, 20267 min readBy Dr. Emily R.
Honoring the Fourth Trimester

The weeks after birth are often called the fourth trimester. This period is a time of adjustment, healing, and emotional change.

Many people focus heavily on pregnancy and birth preparation, but postpartum care deserves just as much attention. Rest, nourishment, and emotional support are essential during this time.

Sleep patterns may be unpredictable, and emotions can feel intense or unfamiliar. This is a normal part of transition, not a sign of failure.

Gentle routines, moments of rest, and asking for support can help create stability during the early weeks after birth.

Some people find relaxation practices helpful during postpartum, not as a solution, but as a way to pause and reconnect with themselves.

Honoring the fourth trimester means allowing yourself time and space to recover, without pressure to return to normal too quickly.