Focusing on the Fourth Trimester Boosts New Parent Success

by Lisa Allen, RM, MBA/HCM

The "fourth trimester" is a hot topic in the birth community now. This period, which lasts from birth until the baby is three months old, is obviously a huge transition for newborns adjusting to life outside the womb. But it's also a critical transition for new moms, dads & families. Getting support early helps lay a foundation for better sleep and energy as well as lower risk for postpartum depression and relationship stress. For more on this topic, check out this new article on NPR.

Here at the Family Birth Center, we love this conversation. `Fourth trimester’ rightly recognizes that these first few months are a stage of continued gestation and transition. From longtime experience, we know that ensuring new parents get enough support early can lead to more easeful parenting—and relationships.

That’s why we host our free New Moms’ Group gathering every Tuesday at Foothills Hospital. It's a welcoming and nonjudgmental group, a wonderful community where you’ll share encouragement and empathy with local new moms and dads. Plus it's facilitated by a registered nurse and doula who's an expert resource for all your questions. Of course, babies and toddlers are welcome to come along!

Join us ... our group just might be the `village' you need!

New Moms’ Group details:
When: Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Where: Foothills Hospital, Leo Hill A/B Conference Room
4747 Arapahoe Ave
Boulder, CO 80303