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
Jun 15, 2024 • 49min
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 ArrivesOur favorite Fourth Trimester Beach Reads The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother | Becoming the Parent You Want to Be: A Sourcebook of Strategies for the First Five Years | Growing Together: Doula Wisdom & Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth & Early Motherhood | Thriving Postpartum: Embracing the Indigenous Wisdom of La CuarentenaResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram Some of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Jun 1, 2024 • 49min
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 ExperiencingOur favorite Fourth Trimester Books The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother | Becoming the Parent You Want to Be: A Sourcebook of Strategies for the First Five Years | Growing Together: Doula Wisdom & Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth & Early Motherhood | Thriving Postpartum: Embracing the Indigenous Wisdom of La CuarentenaResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram Some of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
May 18, 2024 • 1h 9min
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) | Hold Me Tight book | 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 RoomSome of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
May 4, 2024 • 41min
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 ArrivesOur favorite Fourth Trimester Beach Reads The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother | Becoming the Parent You Want to Be: A Sourcebook of Strategies for the First Five Years | Growing Together: Doula Wisdom & Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth & Early Motherhood | Thriving Postpartum: Embracing the Indigenous Wisdom of La CuarentenaResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram Some of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Apr 20, 2024 • 46min
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 ArrivesOur favorite Fourth Trimester Books The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother | Becoming the Parent You Want to Be: A Sourcebook of Strategies for the First Five Years | Growing Together: Doula Wisdom & Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth & Early Motherhood | Thriving Postpartum: Embracing the Indigenous Wisdom of La CuarentenaResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram Some of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Apr 13, 2024 • 50min
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 ArrivesAdd to the registry Blood Pressure Cuff | Breast Pump | Postpartum DoulaResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram Some of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Apr 6, 2024 • 50min
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 ArrivesOur favorite Fourth Trimester Books The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother | Becoming the Parent You Want to Be: A Sourcebook of Strategies for the First Five Years | Growing Together: Doula Wisdom & Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth & Early Motherhood | Thriving Postpartum: Embracing the Indigenous Wisdom of La CuarentenaResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram Some of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Mar 23, 2024 • 52min
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 ArrivesOur favorite Fourth Trimester Beach Reads The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother | Becoming the Parent You Want to Be: A Sourcebook of Strategies for the First Five Years | Growing Together: Doula Wisdom & Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth & Early Motherhood | Thriving Postpartum: Embracing the Indigenous Wisdom of La CuarentenaResources 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.com | postpartum.netSome of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Mar 9, 2024 • 56min
Wire Your Baby for Success Through Optimal Newborn Brain Development
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 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 ArrivesRebecca's favorite books The RIE Manual by Magda Gerber | Becoming The Parent You Want To Be by Janis Keyser | No Bad Kids: Toddler Discipline Without Shame by Janet Lansbury | Elevating Child Care: A Guide to Respectful Parenting by Janet LansburyResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Fourth Trimester Deals & Discounts Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram Some of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Feb 24, 2024 • 43min
Prenatal Vitamins 101 - Nourishing You and Your Baby-to-Be - with Functional Medicine Dietitian Bridgitte Mallinson
In this episode of Fourth Trimester Podcast, functional medicine dietitian Bridgitte Mallinson joins us to explore the essentials of prenatal vitamins. She illuminates the purpose of various supplements, emphasizing their critical role in nurturing both maternal and fetal health throughout pregnancy.Bridgitte explains which vital nutrients expectant mothers should prioritize and highlights red flags to watch out for when selecting prenatal supplements, empowering listeners to make informed choices tailored to their unique needs.Listen to the full episode to learn all about:* What prenatal vitamins do* What nutrients to look for and why* Any red flags to watch out for when selecting a prenatal* How to incorporate prenatals into your routine* Taking vitamins after birth during postpartum and while nursingSpecial offer: Use code FOURTH for 10% OFF everything at GutPersonal, including Prenatal Vitamins by shopping here gutpersonal.com/fourthFull 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
