What Is the Fourth Trimester
and Why Does It Matter?
You’ve made a birth plan, packed your hospital bag, and imagined those first moments holding your baby. But have you thought about what happens after?
Welcome to the fourth trimester—the often-overlooked three months following childbirth. It’s a powerful, transformative season filled with physical healing, emotional shifts, sleepless nights, and deep bonding. And yet, it’s also a time when many new parents feel isolated, exhausted, and under-supported.
We believe this chapter deserves just as much preparation and care as pregnancy and birth. Let’s walk through what the fourth trimester really is, why it matters, and how to build the support you need to navigate it with confidence and compassion.
What Is the Fourth Trimester?
Coined by pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp, the fourth trimester refers to the first 12 weeks after birth (although the postpartum period is way longer than that). Think of it as a time of continued development—for both the baby and the parents.
For babies, this period is a major transition from womb to world. They’re learning to regulate their sleep, feeding, and emotions—often needing near-constant closeness and comfort.
For birthing parents, this trimester is about recovery, identity, and adaptation. Your body is healing from pregnancy and birth. Your hormones are shifting. And you're adjusting to a completely new rhythm of life.
Why Postpartum Support Is Essential—Not Extra
In many cultures, the postpartum period is recognized as sacred—and supported accordingly, with dedicated helpers, nourishing food, and weeks of rest. Unfortunately, in many parts of the modern world, postpartum parents are expected to "bounce back" quickly and handle it all alone.
But here’s the truth: Postpartum support isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Without it, new parents are at greater risk of:
Postpartum depression and anxiety
Physical complications from inadequate rest or care
Relationship strain
Difficulty bonding with their baby
Support during this time can look like:
In-home help (lactation consultants, postpartum doulas, overnight doulas/night nurses/night nannies)
Mental health check-ins
Meal trains or delivery
Community groups and safe spaces to share
When parents are supported, babies thrive. And so do families.
How to Build Your Own Postpartum Plan
You’ve probably made a birth plan—so why not create a postpartum plan too? Here are a few things to consider:
1. Physical Recovery Needs
Who can help with chores or errands while you rest?
Do you have comfortable postpartum supplies (pads, peri bottles, etc.)?
Will you need help with breastfeeding or bottle-feeding?
2. Mental and Emotional Health
Who is your go-to person if you’re struggling emotionally?
Do you know the signs of postpartum mood disorders?
Would therapy or support groups be helpful?
3. Community and Connection
Are there local or virtual support groups you can join?
Who can you call just to talk or vent without judgment?
4. Nourishment
Can you prep meals in advance or set up a meal train?
Is someone able to cook or bring you warm, nourishing food?
You Deserve to Be Held, Too 💛
At Sanctuary, we believe every new parent deserves the same tenderness and care they’re pouring into their baby. You are not alone—and you don’t have to do this alone.
We’re here to walk beside you through the fourth trimester and beyond.
Because thriving families start with supported parents.
