The fourth Trimester: What I Wish Every Mum Knew

Jun 22, 2025

3 min read

You’ve heard of the three trimesters. But what about the fourth?

The fourth trimester — those first 12 weeks after birth — is a time of massive change. And yet, it’s the one we prepare for the least.

As a NICU nurse and postnatal transition coach, I’ve supported hundreds of families during this fragile, beautiful, and often overwhelming stage. And if you’re expecting or newly postpartum, I want you to know:

You are not alone. And you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself.

Here are some of the truths I wish every mum knew about the 4th trimester — the things that rarely make it into antenatal classes or baby books, but that really matter when your baby is finally here.

1. The 4th Trimester Is Real — and Important

The 4th trimester isn’t just about the baby. It’s about you, too. Your body, your hormones, your identity — everything is shifting. You’re recovering from birth while learning to care for a brand-new human. That’s a lot. Give yourself permission to slow down, rest, and be nurtured.

2. Hormones Are No Joke

It’s completely normal to feel teary, wired, anxious, or just… off. Your hormone levels drop dramatically after birth, and your nervous system is adjusting to a new reality. Some days will feel magical. Others will feel like survival. Both are valid. If things feel too heavy or you’re not yourself, please reach out — help is here.

3. Healing Takes More Than Six Weeks

Despite what the check-up schedule might suggest, real healing takes time — physically, emotionally, and mentally. Your pelvic floor, core strength, mental health, sleep, and sense of self all need gentle attention. My 1:1 consultations are designed to support this whole-person recovery and give you realistic tools to navigate it.

4. Breastfeeding Is a Learned Skill

Even with all the best intentions, breastfeeding doesn’t always “just happen.” Latch, supply, cluster feeding, sore nipples — it can be confusing, emotional, and exhausting. Whether you're feeding at the breast, pumping, combo feeding, or navigating formula, you deserve guidance and support. I offer private breastfeeding consults to help you find what works for you and your baby — without pressure or judgment.

5. Caring for a Newborn Can Feel Overwhelming — and That’s Normal

You might feel unsure, anxious, or totally unprepared. That doesn’t mean you’re failing — it means you’re human. As a NICU nurse, I’ve worked with babies of all needs and temperaments. And I’m here to support you, not just as a mum, but as a whole person learning something entirely new.