What to Know About the Fourth Trimester
Dr. Kristyn Gregory, D.O.
| 3 min read
Dr Kristyn Gregory, D.O., is a medical director at B...
The first 12 weeks after a baby is born, mothers experience many changes in their bodies. This 90-day period is sometimes referred to as the “fourth trimester,” as infants and their parents adjust to their new lives.
While infants need round-the-clock care as they learn to exist outside of the womb, it’s also important to be aware of a new mother’s fluctuating emotions, and their effect on her well-being during this time.
Navigating the postpartum emotional rollercoaster
During the first few weeks after giving birth, a mother’s hormones are influx as her body adjusts to no longer being pregnant. Estrogen and progesterone levels rapidly decrease shortly after childbirth, often causing mood swings. Combined with physical recovery of the childbirth, sleep deprivation and the added responsibilities of a new baby, new moms can experience feelings of stress, anxiety and depression.
It is common to feel sad, overwhelmed or anxious at times during the fourth trimester period. In fact, these feelings are often referred to as the “baby blues.” However, the baby blues are usually temporary and not disruptive to daily life. It’s important to distinguish between common baby blues, and a more serious condition called postpartum depression.
When it’s beyond the baby blues
When a new mother feels a persistent sense of sadness or depression that lasts beyond a few weeks or interferes with her ability to get through daily tasks, it is possible that she is experiencing something different than the baby blues.
Here are some additional symptoms to be aware of:
- Changes in eating habits
- Difficulty bonding with the baby
- Extreme fatigue
- Intrusive thoughts
- Loss of interest in things they once enjoyed
- Persistent sadness
Sometimes, new mothers struggling with the blues can feel embarrassed or ashamed that they are sad during a time that is often filled with joy. This may cause them to avoid seeking help.
It’s important for new moms and their loved ones to pay attention to these symptoms and reach out to their doctor for support and to discuss a treatment plan.
Setting expectations and getting support
In addition to the baby blues or postpartum depression, some new moms experience feelings of disappointment in their own maternal capabilities. Societal pressures and standards among friends and family can influence a new mother’s expectations about her own abilities, leading to a let-down and a feeling of inadequacy.
A strong support network can provide much needed emotional fortitude during these times. Peer groups or mom and baby classes can be a great resource for learning, support and social connection.
Additional strategies for emotional well-being during the fourth trimester include:
- Prioritize self-care: Find small bits of time for a hot shower, a quick walk, or a short break.
- Get sleep: Try to sleep when the baby sleeps or enlist others to watch the baby so mom can nap.
- Stay connected: Talk with a friend or family member to reduce feelings of isolation.
Finally, new moms can always talk with their doctor. Honest communication with their health care provider can ensure that mom receives needed support in a timely manner.
Kristyn Gregory, D.O., Medical Director, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Check out these blogs from MIBlueDaily.com for more health tips and information:
- What to Know About Postpartum Rage
- 5 Things to Do in Your Third Trimester
- Why Affordability Must Be at the Center of Health Care
Photo credit: Getty Images
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Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Patricia Ferguson, M.D.