What is the fourth trimester?
The definition for “fourth trimester” was recently added to the Merriam Webster dictionary in 2021 due to the work of many advocacy groups. This period of time is defined as the 12 weeks immediately after delivery of an infant(s).
Simple words for a not so simple period of time.
While pregnancy is divided into three trimesters that involve intense care for both the mother and her growing fetus, the first three months postpartum have traditionally focused on the new baby. By naming this period of time the fourth trimester, we are acknowledging the needs of both the mother and baby as a unit.
More than half of pregnancy related deaths in mothers occur after the birth of her baby. By defining this period of time and understanding the needs of the couplet, we can turn the tides towards better maternal and newborn outcomes.
What do mothers need?
American College of Gynecology (ACOG) teamed up with many mother/baby focused health care organizations to come up with guidelines to help mothers navigate this period of time.
These are topics that needs to be covered during these first three months postpartum.
- Mood and emotional well being
- Infant care and feeding
- Sexuality
- Contraception
- Birth Spacing
- Sleep and fatigue
- Physical recovery from birth
- Chronic disease management
- Health maintenance
Consequently, these first 12 weeks after the birth of the baby are an important time. In many cultures around the world, mother’s healing is the focus of the of the extended family during this time. Relatives set aside rest time for the new mother where she does nothing except recover from birth and bond with her newborn. In the U.S., we often demand that mothers return to their role in the family as soon as possible.
However, the important days and weeks of the fourth trimester set the tone for maternal health in the years to come. Whereas the baby is growing and changing, the mother is healing and establishing a new sense of normal. Her body is also remodeling due to a complex interplay of hormones. Many of the early days after birth are fraught with the turmoil of sleepless nights and the angst of trying to figure out the right things to do.
How can 127 Pediatrics help moms in the fourth trimester?
The focus of 127 Pediatrics Fourth Trimester Package is both mother and baby. One cannot be more important than the other as their lives are intertwined.
While I am not trained in all of the complex issues of postpartum women’s health, I serve as an extra set of eyes and source of information for mothers.You may only see your OB once in the 12 weeks of the fourth trimester. Taking mom’s blood pressure, screening for subtle mental health issues and treating lactation related problems are all part of my role as a fourth trimester specialist. Additionally, I also have all of my favorite OB/Gyn colleagues on speed dial as well as the added resource of Sky Women’s Health in office with me.
What does your baby want?
The journey from a small and helpless human into a happy, smiley baby with a budding personality happens quickly over the first three months of your baby’s life. Our fourth trimester package includes scheduled visits at 2 days, 2 weeks, 1 month, 2 months and 3 months. It is an intense period of time that requires the watchful eyes of a trained professional.
Dr. Wadley addresses many things during these first three months.
- Breastfeeding problems
- Adequate weight gain
- Physical exam
- Jaundice
- Meeting milestones
- Vaccines
- Anticipatory guidance
My favorite job as a pediatrician is to care for a new baby. The first three months life are full of amazing changes and anticipation for the future. I am honored to walk along side families and guide them during this most special time.
Why chose 4th trimester care with 127 Pediatrics?
The fourth trimester package is for women who want the expertise of a physician walking alongside of them. Dr. Wadley is not only an expert in pediatrics, but she possess expertise in breastfeeding too.
Additionally, our fourth trimester package is for families who may have a different pediatrician for their other children, but they desire concierge level care during the first 12 weeks of their new baby’s life. Our fourth trimester package offers scheduled mom/baby check ups, but also unlimited lactation care. Signing up for this package also affords you direct access to Dr. Wadley around the clock for the first 12 weeks postpartum.
Call today and let us help you during this exciting time.
© 127 Pediatrics, February 2022
