The 4th Trimester: What No One Tells You | Edmonton Newborn Photographer
March 8, 2025
When I had my first baby, I had no idea what to expect in the days and weeks after birth. I was so focused on the excitement of meeting my little one that I didn’t fully prepare for the recovery process. What I wish I knew then is how important it is to stock up on all the free supplies you can get at the hospital—things like mesh underwear, peri bottles, and those thick pads. Trust me, these are essential!
What helped me the most after delivery was having a few key recovery items on hand: a soft ice pack, witch hazel pads, witch hazel relief foam, and numbing spray. Going to the bathroom after giving birth was honestly one of the scariest things for me, but these things helped make it a bit easier and more manageable.
>>Here is video that explains the post partum bathroom process well<<
The fourth trimester, or the first three months postpartum is a wild ride. It is all about healing, adjusting, and bonding. This time goes by in the blink of an eye, and though it may feel overwhelming at times, it’s a season you’ll cherish looking back on.
Recovery & Self-Care for Mom
Your body has just done something incredible, and it deserves time to heal. Whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section, rest is essential. Give yourself grace—you don’t have to do it all.
- Rest & Nourishment – Sleep is unpredictable in these early weeks, but try to nap when you can and fuel your body with warm, nourishing meals. Keep a water bottle close—hydration is key for recovery and breastfeeding.
- Ask for Help – Accept meals, laundry help, or even just an extra set of hands to rock the baby. If family isn’t nearby, consider hiring a postpartum doula—Edmonton has wonderful resources for new moms.
- Healing Essentials – Stock up on postpartum must-haves like a peri bottle, sitz bath soaks, and nipple balm to ease discomfort. See the links to my must haves above.
- Emotional Well-Being – The postpartum period can be overwhelming. It’s okay to feel a mix of emotions, but if sadness or anxiety linger, reach out for support. You are not alone.
Helping Baby Adjust to the World
Your baby has just left the warmth, security, and constant motion of the womb. Everything is new—light, sound, temperature, and hunger. The best way to help them adjust is by making the world feel as familiar as possible.
- Skin-to-Skin Contact – Helps regulate baby’s temperature, breathing, and heart rate while providing comfort and bonding.
- Swaddling – Mimics the cozy feeling of the womb and helps with sleep.
- White Noise – The womb wasn’t silent! Babies love the sound of white noise, which can help them sleep longer.
- Babywearing – Keeps baby close to you, where they feel safest, while giving you the freedom to move.
Savoring the 4th Trimester
These days will pass in a haze of feedings, diaper changes, and sleepless nights, but they are also some of the most beautiful and fleeting moments of motherhood. One day, you’ll realize your baby no longer fits curled up on your chest, and you’ll miss those tiny newborn snuggles.
That’s why capturing this time is so important. As an Edmonton maternity and newborn photographer, I specialize in preserving these precious early days so you can remember them forever. If you’re expecting, let’s create something beautiful together.
Contact me today to book your newborn session!
<< Click here to go back & read about the third trimester!