The Fourth Trimester: The Importance of Postpartum Care
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You may be aware that pregnancy consists of three trimesters—but have you ever heard of the fourth trimester?
The period of recovery after giving birth is often referred to as the fourth trimester and it requires just as much care and attention for the birthing person as the previous nine months of pregnancy. For many women, the fourth trimester is a period of physical and mental healing and learning that is unlike any other time in their life. At Health Services of North Texas (HSNT), we are dedicated to supporting all aspects of mothers’ health during this important time.
FQHCs and Maternal Health
HSNT is one of about 1,400 Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) across the United States. FQHCs play an important role in maternal healthcare by providing quality family planning, prenatal, and postpartum care services for patients in their community, regardless of each patient’s ability to pay. HRSA reports that FQHCs have helped reduce the percentage of low or very-low-weight births for Black, Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Hispanic patients, compared to the national average. FQHCs are often one of few choices available for pregnant individuals receiving prenatal care for the first time late in their pregnancy.
At HSNT, we offer prenatal and postpartum care through our women’s health practitioners, including our Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs). Postpartum care is an extremely important part of the birth process. It allows health practitioners to identify any after-birth health complications, as well as help manage common but uncomfortable physical symptoms that can occur during postpartum recovery. In addition, healthcare providers at HSNT can provide critical support for postpartum patients’ mental health and connect them to community resources that may be useful to their growing family.
The First Postpartum Visit
The first postpartum visit for mothers is usually scheduled for about three weeks after birth. A practitioner will perform a physical exam to check on the mother’s healing, whether from a C-section or vaginal delivery, and continue to recommend ways to care for the body at home. If needed, the practitioner may order other laboratory tests to monitor the mother’s health.
“The PP1 visit allows the patient and provider an opportunity to review the birthing experience, discuss any concerns and detect any early signs of potential health concerns,” says HSNT Certified Nurse Midwife Sunny Guillory, “It is also a time for the patient to ask questions about care of the newborn, breastfeeding issues, or any problems with self care.”
The Second Postpartum Visit and Beyond
Women’s health practitioners recommend a second visit during the first 12 weeks after birth to check on the mother’s ongoing health.
“At the PP2 visit, the provider examines the patient to ensure complete recovery and can determine if the patient is ready to resume normal activities. The patient can decide which form of birth control, if any, she would like to use. This is also a crucial period to evaluate the patient for any signs of depression or health concerns,” shares Sunny.
During either the first or second visit, the mother and provider may discuss a plan for the mother to continue accessing OBGYN care in the months and years to come. After all, wellness checks are important for lifelong health, not just during pregnancy!
Saying ‘No’ to Stigma
Postpartum health, especially mental health, is a topic that many women know little about until they are in the middle of trying to manage it. Unfortunately, stigma still exists around maternal mental health, and this can keep some mothers from seeking the help and care that they need.
The truth is, if you experience mental health struggles during postpartum, you are far from alone. According to the CDC, 1 in 8 women report symptoms of depression after giving birth. Having a baby is a huge life-change that affects mothers physically, mentally, and financially. It’s no wonder you may experience extra stress and confusion throughout the recovery process! “Postpartum depression is real and it can happen to anyone. It is more than just feeling sad or tired, it is a serious condition and needs treatment,” says Sunny.
No matter what you are going through, you deserve the care needed to help you live your healthiest life. FQHCs such as HSNT are here to help you do just that.
Postpartum Mental Health Tips
Nothing can replace the care of a health professional, but if you are a mother going through the postpartum phase, these tips may help improve your mental health:
- Get moving: During the first few weeks of postpartum, it is best to limit exercise to promote physical healing. But after you are medically cleared to do so, moving your body is helpful for managing stress and lifting your mood.
- Take time for yourself: Finding time to nurture yourself is crucial, even if you can only squeeze in a few minutes. Try taking a few minutes to walk outside, do some stretching, or write in a journal. Reach out: Though it may feel tempting to isolate yourself during the postpartum period, social connections are important for your well-being. Call a friend or family member just to check in.
- Invest in a healthy diet: A balanced diet filled with nutritious, whole foods supports both mental and physical health during postpartum.
When asked what she wished all future mothers knew about postpartum, Sunny replied, “I wish all future mothers knew that the postpartum period is truly a time of recovery, self-care, and bonding with the newborn. It's okay to be pampered during this time and allow others to step in to help with housework, meals and errands.”
HSNT is here for the mothers in our community during every stage of pregnancy and life!
To learn more about all the women’s health services offered at HSNT, please visit https://healthservicesntx.org/services/womens-health.
If you need assistance during postpartum, especially if you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health crisis, you can call or text the Postpartum Support International Helpline at 1-800-944-4773, or visit their website at https://postpartum.net/