DiscoverFourth Trimester: The First Months and Beyond | Parenting | Newborn Baby | Postpartum | Doula
Fourth Trimester: The First Months and Beyond | Parenting | Newborn Baby | Postpartum | Doula
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Fourth Trimester: The First Months and Beyond | Parenting | Newborn Baby | Postpartum | Doula

Author: Sarah Roselinda Trott

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My name is Sarah Trott. I'm a new mama to a vivacious baby girl and this podcast is all about postpartum care for the few months following birth, the time period also known as the Fourth Trimester. My postpartum doula, Esther Gallagher, is my co-host. She’s a mother, grandmother, perinatal educator, birth and postpartum care provider. I've benefitted hugely from her support. All parents can benefit from the wisdom and support that a postpartum Doula provides. Fourth trimester care is about the practical, emotional and social support parents and baby require, and importantly, helps set the tone for the lifelong journey of parenting. This podcast provides resources for new parents and examines the socio-cultural influences on parenting.

When I first became pregnant, I had never heard of postpartum Doulas, let alone knew what they did. So much of the training and preparation that expecting parents do is focused on the birth and newborn care. Once baby is born, often the first interaction parents have with medical or child professionals, other than the first pediatrician visits, is the six-week checkup with the OB/GYN. What about caring for mama and family between the birth and the six week doctor visit? What are the strategies for taking care of the partner and the rest of the family while looking after your newborn?

Our podcasts contain expert interviews with specialists from many fields to cover topics including postpartum doula practices, prenatal care, prenatal and postnatal yoga, parenting, breastfeeding, physical recovery from birth, nutrition, newborn care, midwifery, negotiating family visitation, and many more.

First-hand experience is shared through lots of stories from both new and seasoned parents. Hear what other parents are asking and what they have done in their own lives.

We reference other podcasts, internet resources and real-life experts who can help you on your own parenting journey. Visit our site at https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

We hope you have a well-resourced and enjoyable experience as new parents.

Sarah Trott & Esther Gallagher xo
122 Episodes
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In this episode, Sarah Trott talks with pediatric sleep consultant Dr. Angelique Millette to answer the top 10 TODDLER sleep questions every parent has. (Go to the BABY episode if you want help with baby sleep! Link below.)Dr. Millette shares her expertise on the challenges of toddler sleep, providing practical solutions for common issues like bedtime resistance, night wakings, early morning risings, and more. She also covers how to recognize signs of sleep readiness, establish effective bedtime routines, and create an environment that supports restful sleep.Listen to learn strategies tailored to meet a toddler’s specific needs, fostering smoother nights for the whole family.Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.com (FREE Birth plan download here)Connect with Dr Angelique Millette angeliquemillette.com | Facebook | YouTubeResources mentioned Safe Sleep Guide for Room Sharing and Bed Sharing Angelique's other sleep episodes Dr Angelique Millette on Sleep Training | The No-low Cry Sleep Method | Help Your Little One Prepare For Sleeping In Their Own Room | The Top 10 Baby Sleep Questions Every Parent AsksLearn more Wire Your Baby for Success Through Optimal Newborn Brain Development | A Parent’s Guide To Building Self-Trust (And Why It Matters) With First Forty Days Author Marisa BelgerConnect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram | About & Contact
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Ida Eden, a reproductive psychiatrist and faculty member at Weill Cornell Medicine, to explore how you can optimize your emotional and psychological well-being during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or simply navigating the transition into parenthood, Dr. Eden will provide insights and practical tools to help you feel empowered and supported. Find out what to do BEFORE baby arrives, and how you can start optimizing if you ALREADY have your baby (or older child!) in arms.Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comConnect with Dr Ida Eden idaedenmd.com | Weill Cornell MedicineLearn more Birth Doula 101: What to Expect From A Birth Doula with Esther Gallagher | Mom Group Guide: How To Find, Join Or Facilitate Your Own Mom Group | MGH Center for Women's Mental Health | Mother to Baby Factsheets (Check which drugs are okay to use while pregnant or breastfeeding) | Postpartum Support International
On this episode of the Fourth Trimester Podcast, we're bringing you the ultimate travel guide for parents.Our special guests, Mother Up creators Kacie McDonnell Hosmer, former host of FOX Nation and Mansion Global, and Gianna DeMedio Simon, host of the podcast So Sorry for Your Loss, share their tried-and-true tips for traveling with little ones. Between them, they’ve wrangled three children under four while navigating air and car travel, and their advice will help you make your next trip as stress-free as possible. Whether you’re planning a flight or a road trip, Kacie and Gianna will walk you through everything from packing essentials to managing those inevitable meltdowns.Tune in for practical advice, personal stories, and the confidence to travel like a pro with your kids. P.S. Don't forget to chat with your pediatrician for advice on how early you can travel with your newborn - every situation is unique!Full Show Notes (all links on fourthtrimesterpodcast.com)Connect with Kacie McDonnell Hosmer & Gianna DeMedio Simon motheruppod.com | Instagram Kacie | Instagram GiannaLearn more Simple Way To Adjust Baby To Time Change (Schedule Template) | Evidence Based Care for Improving Postpartum Recovery - Advice From Dr Rebecca Dekker | Preparing For Your Second Baby - The Second Child TransitionTravel Items Mentioned Recommended Travel Essentials | Mother Up Amazon StorefrontConnect with Fourth Trimester InstagramThanks in advance for taking a moment to please rate Fourth Trimester Podcast on Pocket Casts - this helps other people discover our program and supports the work that we do!https://pocketcasts.com/ratings
Rather amazingly, there hasn't been much research into the causes and potential cures for the nausea that around 70% of people experience during pregnancy. Until now.Thankfully, Dr Marlena Fejzo is dedicating her life's work to finding ways to alleviate the full spectrum of mild cases of "morning sickness" to severe nausea to, on the extreme end, hyperemesis. She herself experienced hyperemesis. She knows firsthand the debilitating effects of the disease. Already she has clearly identified one gene (GDF15) linked to the cause and she is working on finding more.Listen to the full episode to learn what Dr Fejzo recommends for alleviating symptoms of morning sickness and treating true hyperemesis. There are ways to find some relief now, even ahead of the groundbreaking new therapies that are on the horizon.Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com (all links below can also be found here)Connect with Dr Marlena Fejzo USC Profile & Contact | USC Marlena Fejzo Research FundLearn more Time Women Of The Year 2024 | Harmonia Healthcare Clinics for Nausea & Hyperemesis Treatment | HER Foundation RESOURCES | 23andMeConnect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram | About & Contact
In this episode of Fourth Trimester Podcast, we are joined by an experienced financial advisor, Laura Davis CFP. This episode centers on how families can create a budget that sets the family up for financial success, including: what a budget is, how to create one, considerations before having a baby, what to budget for during pregnancy, postpartum and longer term (kids education, your own retirement etc.)We also have a great conversation around helping raise children to be financially independent.Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comConnect with Laura Davis financiallab.usLearn more  (all on fourthtrimesterpodcast.com)Family Financial Wellness: Three Finance Must-dos for Families How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You if You Don’t Have a Doula (What is a Doula?) Mindfulness Childbirth and Parenting Courses FREE Download - Birth Plan Template
Dr Rebecca Dekker of Evidence Based Birth provides clear, plain-language guidance on postpartum recovery, including the very immediate period after birth from delivering the placenta and then through the extended fourth trimester. Learn what the evidence points to so that you can make informed decisions and enhance your recovery period.Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.comResources Skin to Skin After A Cesarean Evidence on Pitocin During the Third Stage of Labor Why Postpartum Midwifery is Vital to Healing With Serena Saeed-Winn FREE DOWNLOAD Birth Plan Template (a.k.a. Birth Intentions Document) Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) The Best Hospitals For Labor And Delivery - Ratings App ‘Irth’ Created By Kimberly Seals Allers The State of Postpartum Maternal Health with Dr Amanda P Williams 
In this episode of the Fourth Trimester Podcast, we asked a panel of breastfeeding educators and practitioners to help us put together a 2-part guide on breastfeeding. Importantly, this is a NO JUDGMENT guide. Just the facts and plain language explanations that help you on your journey.Part 2 covers a wide range of topics including: managing milk supply, breast pump usage, feeding schedules and more.Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comLinks and resources mentioned on the show: Lactation Resources Find a Lactation Consultant | Mahogany Milk Support Group | Drugs That Are Safe While Breastfeeding - Medications Fact Sheets | NC A&T Outpatient Clinic | Kelly Mom Breastfeeding Articles | Donate Extra Breastmilk | Ready Set Baby | Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine | Fourth Trimester ProjectLearn more The Real Story Behind Breastfeeding | Wire Your Baby for Success Through Optimal Newborn Brain Development | FREE DOWNLOAD The Ultimate Birth Plan Template You Can Customize | mothertobaby.org | infantrisk.com | believeipe.org | Gold Lactation Conference
In this episode of the Fourth Trimester Podcast, we asked a panel of breastfeeding educators and practitioners to help us put together a 2-part guide on breastfeeding. Importantly, this is a NO JUDGMENT guide. Just the facts and plain language explanations that help you on your journey.The content of the guide includes answers to the top breastfeeding questions new parents frequently have during the first 24 hours with a newborn through to the continued breastfeeding years.Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.comFREE DOWNLOAD The Ultimate Birth Plan Template You Can Customize: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/resourcesLactation Resources Find a Lactation Consultant | Mahogany Milk Support Group | Drugs That Are Safe While Breastfeeding - Medications Fact Sheets | NC A&T Outpatient ClinicLearn more The Real Story Behind Breastfeeding | Wire Your Baby for Success Through Optimal Newborn Brain Development | mothertobaby.org | infantrisk.com | believeipe.org | Gold Lactation Conference
In this episode we are joined by an experienced financial advisor, Laura Davis CFP. Laura shares her expertise in transforming financial lives and provides actionable steps that parents and soon-to-be parents can take to secure a strong financial future for their families. Learn the three financial must-dos for families that can help set your family up for success.Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comLinks/resources mentioned: (more links available in full notes article)Sara Mauskopf CEO and Co-founder of Winnie | winnie.com | LegalZoom Estate Planning | A Parent’s Guide To Building Self-Trust (And Why It Matters)
Having six children means Shari Stamps knows a fair bit about preparing for postpartum. Since having kids, she's dedicated her life to growing her experience as a perinatal professional, taking many courses including doula training. Now she's sharing her wisdom from her own parenting experience plus her professional training with us. Hear Shari's tips for postpartum and birth preparation, including:Who to Include in a Comprehensive Support VillageWhen to Start Putting Resources in PlaceClinical Vs Non-clinical Support PostpartumAdvice on Preparing One’s Home, Nurturing Relationships, and Setting BoundariesActionable Steps New Parents Can Take to Feel More Prepared, Supported, and Confident as They Transition Into This New Phase of LifeFull show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comFree birth plan download: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/resourcesFree Infant Massage Course fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/shari
Ali Starling joins us to talk about the significant and often under-discussed topic of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMAD). Ali Starling is an experienced midwife and academic from the University of California San Francisco. We talk about her passions: midwifery, mental health, and the intersection between the two. Our discussion thoroughly explores how new parents can navigate the challenging psychological landscape following childbirth. Listen to learn more about: the nature of PMADsactions to take for early preparation and social supportpractical advice on both medical and non-medical treatment optionsthe many (free) resources availableFull show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comResources mentioned:MGH Center for Women's Mental Health | Mother to Baby Factsheets (Check if drugs are okay to use while pregnant or breastfeeding) | reprotox.org | National Library of Medicine | National Curriculum in Reproductive Psychiatry Training | Postpartum Support International | LactMed Database | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan
This episode features Kiran Saluja, the Executive Director of the PHFE WIC (Women Infants Children) Program. She is a respected authority in the field of nutrition and breastfeeding. With a career spanning nearly 40 years, Kiran brings an exceptional depth of knowledge and passion to our discussion. We talk about common breastfeeding challenges and solutions, nutritional guidance, and the significance of building a robust support network, including practical advice on: What Diet to Maintain While BreastfeedingRecognizing Infant CuesManaging Postpartum ExpectationsHow Everyone Can Utilize WIC Resources Kiran is so down-to-earth and she is such an enjoyable speaker. Her own experiences as a mother and grandmother enrich our conversation with the many stories shared. We loved the discussion and hope you do as well!Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comLinks and resources mentioned: (links can also be found on fourthtrimesterpodcast.com)Breastfeeding Resources: The decision of how to feed your baby is a big one. The more you learn about feeding your newborn, the more confident and comfortable you will be after your baby is born. This hospital experience guide will help you get off to a great start in the first hours and days after delivery, and this guide to breastfeeding has tips for positioning and getting a great latch. Feeding gets easier as the days go by and you get to know your baby’s hunger cues, fullness cues, and other ways they communicate with you.Postpartum Nutrition: Taking care of YOU is as important as taking care of your baby. Be healthy for you and your baby both of you with good postpartum nutrition and self-care.Find your local WIC program: www.Signupwic.com More than half of babies born in the US qualify for WIC. Use this screening tool to see if you may be eligible.Connect with Kiran Saluja www.phfewic.org | Instagram | Facebook | TikTokFREE Birth Plan Download
Here to answer the questions you always wanted to ask is Esther Gallagher, long-time birth and postpartum doula.Top questions on this episode include:Are Doulas Worth It? How Much Do they Cost and how do I get the service paid for?Can doulas bill my insurance / is it covered?What about workplace incentives like Carrot and Hello Cleo?Do doulas charge differently for virtual support?What about Medicaid paying for doulas?I’m someone who has had past trauma and I need special kind of support from my doula. Can they help? What is Trauma Informed Care?In terms of advocacy, can you advocate with more than my medical team? Can [you/doula] speak with my [partner, parents, therapist, dr…..]Links and resources: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com (all resources below can be found here)Learn more Doula Medicaid Project | Birth Doula 101 | What To Expect From A Postpartum Doula | The Dos & Don'ts Of Being A Respectful & HELPFUL Visitor To A New Parent | Knowledge is Power: Safer Childbirth Advice from Birth Trauma Attorney Gina MundyRecommended Mindfulness Childbirth and Parenting Courses | Somatic Experiencing
Leading pediatric sleep consultant Dr Angelique Millette answers the Top 10 Baby Sleep Questions every parent asks. We discuss real solutions that are safe and developmentally appropriate for your baby. We talk about solutions that really work and give you and your family the rest you need. We all know how important sleep is for our mental and physical wellness, and so we’re diving into the topic with someone who has dedicated her life’s work to family sleep solutions - 25 years helping over 15,000 families.Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com Links and resources mentioned:angeliquemillette.com (Code: 4THTRI10 for 10% OFF & FREE 15 Minute Consult)Safe Sleep Guide for Room Sharing and Bed Sharing (See Resources on fourthtrimesterpodcast.com)Wonder Weeks AppOther episodes featuring Dr Angelique Millette: (available on fourthtrimesterpodcast.com)Dr Angelique Millette on Sleep Training The No-low Cry Sleep Method Help Your Little One Prepare For Sleeping In Their Own Room
How can partners prepare for the fourth trimester? Sure, we have lots of practical suggestions such as relationship proofing, practical preparation, but there are some big considerations outside the practical. Listen in to learn how to create a level of connectedness that will ease the way for everything else that is to come.Enjoy! Sarah and Esther xoFull episode notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com
Parents benefit hugely from having regular and purposeful emotional outlets - when we take care of our own emotions, we are able to be more present, patient and connected with our children and families. Listening Partnerships are a tool we recommend for every parent to keep in their parenting toolbox. Why? It's FREE, it takes 5 mins a week, and it has tremendous benefits!!! Sarah and her real-life listening partner Kaitlin Solimine break down how to create and benefit from a listening partnership. Tune in to learn: What is a Listening Partnership Benefits of Listening Partnerships How to create one of your own Tools you can useFull show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com FREE Download Resources:(Go to https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/resources-recommendations/)Customizable Birth Plan / Intentions Document
It's Black Maternal Health Week and in this episode Sarah talks with Dr Amanda P Williams about the current state of postpartum maternal health and birth equity.Sarah first heard Dr Williams give the keynote talk at the Future of Maternal Care Summit. She invited Dr Williams onto the program to share her insights with all of our Fourth Trimester listeners.Dr Williams is raising the bar for all birthing people and families by helping hospitals and innovators with improved practices and solutions. She is the Clinical Innovation Advisor with the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative. Her legacy is about 'finding a better way' in the name of improved outcomes for women and families.Listen to the episode to learn information that impacts us all, including practical guidance new and expecting families can put into practice right away, including:What the data tells us about postpartum maternal health Postpartum medical warning signs and preventing complicationsCreating a postpartum village and doula supportExciting work that’s being done to innovate around maternal careWhere new and expecting parents can go to find resources and supportWhat to gift a pregnant or postpartum person (answer: blood pressure cuff, breast pump, doula)Full show notes:fourthtrimesterpodcast.comFREE Download Resources:(Go to https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/resources-recommendations/)Customizable Birth Plan / Intentions Document
Sarah, Nancy Myrick (Certified Nurse Midwife and birth center Director) and Leda Mast (Board Member of the SF Birth Center Foundation) discuss the ins and outs of birthing at a birth center. They talk through the unique benefits birth centers offer and explore a wide range of birth center related topics designed to help inform the birthing journey, including:Birth framework: Three Main Options for Where to Give Birth - Hospital, Birth Center, HomeWhat a Birth Center isWhy People Choose Birth CentersWhat It is Like to Give Birth at a Birth CenterWho is a Good CandidateHow Unforeseen Complications Are HandledThe Team Present for the Birth The Pros and Cons of Different Birth Location Options How to Learn More and Find Birth Centers in Your AreaFull show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comFREE Download Resources:(Go to https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/resources-recommendations/)Customizable Birth Plan / Intentions DocumentOverview of Birth Team Members & Roles
In this episode of Fourth Trimester, we're joined by Dr. Melissa Dennis, a seasoned OBGYN with over two decades of experience in healthcare. Dr. Dennis shares her evidence-based insights and practical advice on how to navigate the often-overlooked but critical phase of birth recovery. We discuss essential knowledge and practices that can support smoother recoveries and enhance the overall post-birth experience, including: The Role of An OBGYNBirth Team Scenarios An Overview of the Six Week Check Top Recommendations for Improving the Birth Recovery ExperienceFull show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comFREE Download Resources: (Go to https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/resources-recommendations/)Customizable Birth Plan / Intentions Document Overview of Birth Team Members & Roles Other Resources Mentioned:partumhealth.compostpartum.net
Unlock the secrets of newborn brain development with Childhood Educator Rebecca Walsh. Discover how to wire your baby for success. Listen to the full episode to learn what you need to know for helping your baby develop intelligence, plus the strong interpersonal and soft skills they’ll require later in life - both the EQ and IQ. You'll learn:* How the brain develops * What parents can do practically to optimize that development* "Serve and Return" interaction concept * How supporting your infant during the first year of life helps set them up for success as older kids and adults* Example routines and rituals you can implement right away We would love for everyone to understand the fundamentals of supporting newborn brain development. Enjoy!Full show notes: https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/
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