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Writer's picturePollyana O'Keeffe

The Fourth Trimester


The fourth trimester is a term used by Dr Harvey Karp to describe the first three months of a newborn's life outside the womb. It is a period of significant adjustment for both the baby and the parents as they adapt to the many changes that come with the arrival of a new baby.


During the fourth trimester, babies still depend on their parents for everything, including feeding, comfort, and security. This period can be challenging for parents as they learn to care for their newborn and adjust to parenthood's physical and emotional demands, not to mention sleep deprivation as babies still wake multiple times a night to feed.


Many changes happen in a baby's body during the fourth trimester. They may experience digestive issues, sleep disturbances, and fussiness due to the transition from the protected environment of the womb to the outside world. Babies may also experience growth spurts and changes in their feeding patterns, which can be challenging for parents to navigate.


Parents may also experience physical and emotional changes during the fourth trimester. Mothers may be recovering from childbirth and adjusting to the demands of breastfeeding, while fathers may adapt to their new role as a parent and support their partners during this transition.


The great thing is that babies this young are mobile and can be taken almost everywhere because they sleep under almost any condition. So invest in a good sling as most babies may find it difficult to fall asleep in a flat pram.



Overall, the fourth trimester is a time of adjustment and growth for both the baby and the parents. It is a critical period for building strong bonds between the baby and parents and setting the foundation for a healthy and happy family dynamic.

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