Fourth Trimester: The First Months and Beyond | Parenting | Newborn Baby | Postpartum | Doula
Sarah Roselinda Trott
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
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
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 13, 2024 • 37min
Navigating Parenthood with Shari Stamps - Must-Know Tips From A Mother Of Six
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 Infant Massage Course fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/shariLearn more How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You After You Have a Baby | The Second Child Transition | Improve Birth Recovery: Three Recommendations From An OBGYN | Postpartum Soups and Stews Collection | Four Relationship-Saving Questions To Ask Before Baby ArrivesResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram
Jun 29, 2024 • 1h 6min
PMAD: Finding Peace Amid Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders
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.comLearn more How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You After You Have a Baby | The Second Child Transition | Improve Birth Recovery: Three Recommendations From An OBGYN | Postpartum Soups and Stews Collection | Four Relationship-Saving Questions To Ask Before Baby ArrivesResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts | 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 DatabaseConnect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram
Jun 15, 2024 • 50min
Get A Healthy Start - Nutrition, Breastfeeding & Building Your Community with WIC's Kiran Saluja
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 | TikTokFull show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.comLearn more How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You After You Have a Baby | The Second Child Transition | Improve Birth Recovery: Three Recommendations From An OBGYN | Postpartum Soups and Stews Collection | Four Relationship-Saving Questions To Ask Before Baby ArrivesResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram
Jun 1, 2024 • 50min
Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Doulas But Were Afraid To Ask
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 ExperiencingResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram
May 18, 2024 • 1h 10min
The Top 10 Baby Sleep Questions Every Parent Asks
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.comLearn more How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You After You Have a Baby | The Second Child Transition | Improve Birth Recovery: Three Recommendations From An OBGYN | Postpartum Soups and Stews Collection | Four Relationship-Saving Questions To Ask Before Baby ArrivesResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram 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
May 4, 2024 • 43min
How Partners Can Prepare for Parenthood (The Power of Snuggling)
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 show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.comLearn more How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You After You Have a Baby | The Second Child Transition | Improve Birth Recovery: Three Recommendations From An OBGYN | Postpartum Soups and Stews Collection | Four Relationship-Saving Questions To Ask Before Baby ArrivesResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram
Apr 20, 2024 • 47min
Listening Partnerships, Unlocking Deeper Connection, and Elevating Family Dynamics
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.comLearn more How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You After You Have a Baby | The Second Child Transition | Improve Birth Recovery: Three Recommendations From An OBGYN | Postpartum Soups and Stews Collection | Four Relationship-Saving Questions To Ask Before Baby ArrivesResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram
Apr 13, 2024 • 51min
The State of Postpartum Maternal Health with Dr Amanda P. Williams
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.comLearn more How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You After You Have a Baby | The Second Child Transition | Improve Birth Recovery: Three Recommendations From An OBGYN | Postpartum Soups and Stews Collection | Four Relationship-Saving Questions To Ask Before Baby ArrivesResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram
Apr 6, 2024 • 51min
Embrace Empowerment: The Transformative Benefits of Birth Center Birthing
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.comLearn more How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You After You Have a Baby | The Second Child Transition | Improve Birth Recovery: Three Recommendations From An OBGYN | Postpartum Soups and Stews Collection | Four Relationship-Saving Questions To Ask Before Baby ArrivesResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram
Mar 23, 2024 • 53min
Improve Birth Recovery: Three Recommendations From An OBGYN
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.comLearn more How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You After You Have a Baby | The Second Child Transition | Improve Birth Recovery: Three Recommendations From An OBGYN | Postpartum Soups and Stews Collection | Four Relationship-Saving Questions To Ask Before Baby ArrivesResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram Other Resources Mentioned:partumhealth.compostpartum.net
