The Fourth Trimester

Focusing on yourself during the fourth trimester

The day your baby is born is a happy time. It’s also the beginning of an important period in your life as a new mother. In the 12 weeks after you give birth, you need love, support and excellent postpartum care. The fourth trimester is a critical period for you, and our Austin and Dripping Springs OB/GYNs urge you to take care of yourself.

Our team pays close attention to your mental and physical health in the weeks after you give birth, helping your body and mind recover and adjust to this major life change.

Mental and physical changes you can expect in the fourth trimester

When you bring your bundle of joy home, you are still tired from giving birth. You are sore from a vaginal birth or from your incision from a C-section. Your uterus is shrinking, causing cramps, and you will bleed and have vaginal discharge for the next couple of weeks. You may be learning to breastfeed and dealing with painful nipples or breasts.

In addition to physical issues, you are probably cycling through a series of emotions, ranging from joy to depression or stress. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed by it all. In fact, it’s expected.

Here are some postpartum care tips to help you cope with changes during the fourth trimester.

• Ask for help, and take it when someone offers. 

• Sleep and rest whenever you can.

• Eating a healthy diet and staying hydrated helps you feel better. 

• Take your prenatal vitamins.

• Don’t ignore your feelings. If you feel severely depressed or anxious, or think about self-harm, call our Austin and Dripping Springs

OB/GYNs immediately. Postpartum depression is a serious issue that requires a physician’s care.

Your postpartum visit is vital for your recovery

Some women skip their postpartum visit, but this is a big mistake. Your postpartum appointment during the fourth trimester is vital for both you and our team.

During this visit, we check to see if your vaginal area or C-section has healed properly. We also check your blood pressure, thyroid and breast health, and discuss family planning.

At your appointment, you can ask questions about your mental and physical health, as well as your baby’s care and feeding. Your postpartum visit is about you, so don’t miss the opportunity to focus on your health.

Our Austin and Dripping Springs OB/GYNs partner with you to ensure the best postpartum care

During the fourth trimester, our physicians and team members are here for you. Don’t ignore your health in all the excitement of a new baby. Your baby needs a healthy mom! Contact us for an appointment with our Austin and Dripping Springs OB/GYNs.