Did you know there are more than the typical 3 trimesters of pregnancy? Today I’m spilling the tea on everything you can expect from conception to the mysterious “4th trimester.”
I had no idea there was a “4th trimester” until after I’d had 2 babies! I’m so glad I know now. It helps me to understand and relate to new mommas, not only in my business but in life/friendships as well!
I’m not only going to share with you what to expect in each, but also a lot of local resources you can use as you plan for your pregnancy, newborn and birth in South Jersey.
First Trimester: The Secret Life of Pregnancy
The first trimester is like a secret club where only you and your growing baby are members. During these first 12 weeks, your body is working overtime to create a new life, and you might be feeling the effects (hello, morning sickness). It’s like you’re part of an exclusive group that only fellow expectant moms can truly understand.
For my first pregnancy my morning sickness was very manageable but the TIREDNESS was insane, I would be ready for bed by 4pm, take a nap, wake up, eat dinner and right back to sleep. With my second pregnancy I was very very sick with the nausea and a friend told me about taking B6 and unisom together and it did help a ton! Check with your OB or midwife if this is a good option for you.
There are many local suppliant stores that can help with natural ways to ease first trimester symptoms. I love Essential Elements here in South Jersey (Northfield) Even now as a mom I am in there all the time!
Second Trimester: The Golden Age
For many, the second trimester is the golden age of pregnancy, where you can finally start enjoying the journey. With the nausea subsiding and the baby bump showing, it’s time to embrace the experience. And the best part, announcing your expecting! This is so so fun, weather you do something low key or really memorable for family and friends, I’ve seen it all! In my collective membership (baby first year plan) at Shayleigh Photography, here in South Jersey, I offer a FREE mini session announcement shoot!
This is also the time to prepare your mind, body, family and home for your new little one! I used Christian Hypobirthing to prepare me for my natural births and I can’t recommend it enough. Taking a class or reading books with your partner can really help prepare the two of you for the big day of birth and how to work together to welcome your sweet little one. Also getting away on a “baby moon” is so fun if you can swing it! My husband and I went to Playa Largo Resort and Spa in Key Largo. It was fabulous, we absolutely loved the resort and it was still in the US which made me feel comfortable incase I needed a doctor for any reason. But we still felt as if we were on a tropical island. You can find their website here.
Another check list idea is to think about Maternity/Newborn Photos. Even if you don’t want to do maternity photos its important to book your newborn photographer in advance as they book up! You can see more of my work, a Maternity and Newborn Photographer here in South Jersey, here.
Third Trimester: The Home Stretch
The third trimester is when things start to get real. As you prepare for your baby’s arrival, you’ll want to make sure you have everything in place for a smooth transition.
Getting the nursery ready is so fun but also a little overwhelming. I have a great blog on the best tips and tricks for this. You can find them here:
GETTING YOUR HOME NEWBORN-READY IN JUST TWO WEEKS | SOUTH JERSEY NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHER
One of the main things I did in the home stretch is saw a prenatal Chiropractor here in South Jersey. Robyn at Cape Chiropractic is absolutely incredible! I can not say enough wonderful things about her and how she helped prepare my body for birth. You can find her information here.
Birth: The Main Event
The moment you’ve been waiting for is finally here: birth! Whether you’re planning a natural birth or a C-section, this stage is exciting and emotional!
Both my boys decided to be late late late and I personally did not want to get induced. So both my labors were helped along and started with acupuncture! I went to a local acupuncturist here in Somers Point, Justin Bean and he was absolutely wonderful! You can find his information here.
If you want more details on birth, make sure to check out this blog post:
The 4th Trimester: What No One Tells You
Surprise! Your journey doesn’t end with birth. The 4th trimester is the first three months of your baby’s life, where both of you are adjusting to the world outside the womb. Its important to understand that its okay to need help, support, etc. Having your church or a friend/family member set up a meal train is a huge huge help. Also when people come to see the baby ask them if they can help you in a small way, maybe load the dishwasher, put a load of laundry in. Remember “It takes a village” and something I learned was its okay and acceptable to ask for help and people WANT to help, so take it!
I hope reading 5 Stages of Pregnancy You Never Knew Existed has given you some solid ideas! If you’re still looking for a South Jersey Newborn Photographer, click here to see my portfolio of images.
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