Fourth Trimester: The First Months and Beyond | Parenting | Newborn Baby | Postpartum | Doula - podcast cover

Fourth Trimester: The First Months and Beyond | Parenting | Newborn Baby | Postpartum | Doula

Sarah Roselinda Trottfourthtrimesterpodcast.com
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
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Episodes

VBACs and Cesarean Recovery Tips with Petra Cruz Doula

Petra is a birth & postpartum doula, birth educator, and fierce advocate for women reclaiming their power in birth. After undergoing three Cesareans, she set off on a transformative journey that led to her vaginal birth after three Cesareans (VBA3C). That experience reshaped not only how she viewed birth but also how she found her voice—one that had been silenced by fear, external authority, and societal expectations. Now, she is dedicated to helping other women do the same: break free from ...

Jul 26, 202543 minSeason 1Ep. 142

How to Prepare for Hospital Birth (and Avoid Unnecessary Interventions) with HeHe Stewart

Here's a prep guide for hospital births that will help you feel more confident, and empower you with information that could help you avoid unnecessary procedures that can result in trauma and/or injury. Our guest is HeHe Stewart, a birth doula and founder of The Birth Lounge , a non-judgmental, evidence-based childbirth education online platform known for helping parents navigate birth. HeHe also has her own podcast called the Birth Lounge. Here's some of what we discuss: how to avoid unnecessar...

Jul 14, 202540 minSeason 1Ep. 141

Returning to Work Transition Guide - Michelle Olsen, MA, CPCC

This Returning to Work Transition Guide is led by Career coach Michelle Olsen who specializes in helping women find clarity and purpose during career transitions. Michelle holds a Master’s in Organizational Psychology and is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) Covered on this episode: Making the back to work transition with intention Finding the right balance for your family Creating a plan that aligns with your values Tips on what to ask for Factors to consider when making your own ...

Jun 28, 202540 minSeason 1Ep. 140

Redefining Motherhood for More Joy and Freedom with Dr Gertrude Lyons

Dr. Gertrude Lyons is a leading expert in holistic women’s development with over 20 years of experience. We explore how rewriting our beliefs about motherhood can lead to more joy, freedom, and self-love. This episode is about learning how breaking free from outdated expectations can transform not only your parenting but your entire sense of self. Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.com Connect with Dr Gertrude Lyons drgertrudelyons.com | Instagram | LinkedIn | Podcast Learn more A Parent’s G...

Jun 14, 202536 minSeason 1Ep. 139

The Birth Doula’s Guide to Navigating New Motherhood with Carson Meyer

So here's what happens when a seasoned birth doula becomes a first-time mom. Carson Meyer, a sought-after doula, joins us to share her personal journey into motherhood. With years of experience supporting parents through birth and postpartum, Carson brings a unique perspective on what she thought she knew versus what she learned firsthand. In this episode, we talk about the realities of postpartum recovery, lessons from home birth, and the balance of caring for yourself while caring for a newbor...

May 31, 202537 minSeason 1Ep. 138

Prevent and Manage Gestational Diabetes With Certified Diabetes Educator Lily Nichols, RD

Lily Nichols is a Registered Dietitian and the author three books designed to support healthy conception, birth and postpartum, including how to prevent and manage gestational diabetes. Her books are Real Food for Fertility (co-authored by Lisa Hendrickson-Jack ), Real Food For Pregnancy and Real Food for Gestational Diabetes. Lily shares important information all women should know about optimizing their diet for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum from a scientific perspective. Even for women ...

May 17, 202553 minSeason 1Ep. 137

Prepare your Vagina for Birth with Britt Fohrman, Birth Educator & Doula

In this empowering episode, we invite you to get up close and personal with the part of your body that’s about to do something extraordinary—birth your baby. Many parents enter labor feeling disconnected from their vaginas and pelvises, but our guest Britt Fohrman offers a different path—one grounded in awareness, preparation, and trust. Drawing from over two decades as a doula, yoga teacher, birth educator, and pleasure coach, Britt shares practical tools to help you prepare your vagina for bir...

May 03, 202557 minSeason 1Ep. 136

What The Research Says About Vitamin D & Your Baby's Health with Celeste Beck from Heluna Health

Dual-PhD researcher Celeste Beck is a leading maternal health researcher at Heluna Health who just published a groundbreaking study on vitamin D and pregnancy. It turns out something as simple as your vitamin D levels could have a major impact on your pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and your baby’s health. With over 15 years in public health and a dual PhD in Nutritional Science and Clinical and Translational Science, Celeste breaks down what every parent needs to know—how to recognize the risks...

Apr 19, 202543 minSeason 1Ep. 135

The Top 5 Questions Parents Ask in New Parent Groups with Mikka Bonel, Postpartum Ayurvedic Doula

Mikka Bonel is a doula and a long-time facilitator of New Parent Circles. In these groups, parents gather in a safe and supportive, facilitated group. All parents of new babies are welcome to share and connect around the transition to their new role as a parent, changing family relationships, and the vast spectrum of emotions that arise in new parenthood. In this episode, Mikka shares the top 5 questions parents ask in her groups, touching on: Confidence and balancing the pressure to "get it rig...

Apr 05, 20251 hr 12 minSeason 1Ep. 134

Micro Destressing For Busy Parents with Sarah Ezrin, Author of The Yoga of Parenting

In this episode, I’m joined by Sarah Ezrin , award-winning author, world-renowned yoga educator, and maternal mental health advocate, to talk about micro destressing techniques for busy parents . Sarah shares simple, effective ways to regulate your nervous system, restore your energy, and find calm in the chaos of daily life . The best part is that it doesn't take additional time, so it still works even if you have a full schedule. Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.com Connect with Sarah Ez...

Mar 22, 202546 minSeason 1Ep. 133

Generational Parenting, featuring Postpartum Support International Founder Jane Honikman

Parenting isn’t just about raising children—it’s about the roles we all play in supporting the next generation. In this episode, PSI Founder Jane Honikman shares wisdom for parents, partners, and grandparents on the power of community, mental health, and the importance of not doing it alone. Please share with the dads, grandparents, other caregivers and extended family in your life! Special thanks to podcasthon.org , the world's largest podcast charity initiative. Full show notes: fourthtrimeste...

Mar 15, 202558 minSeason 1Ep. 132

How to Rewrite Your Birth Story and Find Joy After Trauma with Chanti Smith

Birth is one of the most transformative experiences in a person’s life, but when things don’t go as planned - something traumatic or simply not what you thought would happen - the emotional impact can linger. Chanti Smith is a licensed professional midwife and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. In this episode she talks about healing from birth trauma and reclaiming joy. Listen to learn how somatic experiencing helps release stored trauma, reconnect with the body, and create a new sense of emp...

Mar 08, 202550 minSeason 1Ep. 131

Get the Most From Your Night Doula and Get More Sleep With Kristin Revere of Gold Coast Doulas

I don't know about you, but one of my top goals as a parent of a newborn was getting more sleep. A night doula is a great addition to any postpartum dream team because they will help with achieving exactly that - more sleep. More sleep for you, your other family members in your household, your baby. It's perfectly normal for newborns to be awake multiple times during the night (just ask PhD Sleep Consultant Dr Millette). And, it's also true that sleep deprivation is associated with an increased ...

Feb 22, 202539 minSeason 1Ep. 130

How to Maximize Maternity Leave & Paternity Benefits with MAMAttorney Daphne Delvaux

Wondering how to make the most of your parental leave? In this episode, we talk with Mamattorney lawyer Daphne Delvaux about your rights, how to maximize your maternity, paternity, and parental leave benefits, and what every new parent should know. Daphne spells out how you can stitch together different types of leaves and benefits to make sure you are getting the full amount of leave available so you can spend the most time possible with your baby Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com Con...

Feb 08, 202555 minSeason 1Ep. 129

Baby Carrier Guide: Benefits, Safety & Tips with Whitney Dula, IBCLC, Trained Babywearing Expert

Discover the benefits of babywearing in this episode with Whitney Dula, IBCLC, postpartum doula, and trained babywearing expert. Whitney shares tips on choosing and using baby carriers, safety essentials, and how babywearing supports bonding and development. Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.com Connect with Whitney Dula themamasdula.com | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook Learn more Babywearing How To Videos | HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE Babywearing Guide | Where to Check if Your Hand-M...

Jan 25, 20251 hr 2 minSeason 1Ep. 128

Proper Sitz Bath Guide: Natural Healing & How to Be the Best Friend to a New Mom with Esther Gallagher

Learn the benefits of a sitz bath DONE PROPERLY for postpartum healing, with step-by-step guidance on how to prepare one using natural, soothing ingredients. This DIY Sitz Bath Guide will teach you how to care for yourself or provide this care for others. Plus, this episode will equip you with additional tools to make a real difference in a new parent’s recovery journey . >> This is one to share with any friend or family member who is planning to provide you with a helping hand while your ...

Jan 11, 202559 minSeason 1Ep. 127

Sacred Postpartum Traditions: How to Heal, Thrive, and Honor Your Fourth Trimester with Pānquetzani

Discover the wisdom of sacred postpartum traditions with Pānquetzani , a traditional healer and advocate for holistic maternal care. In this episode, we explore time-honored practices that support healing, thriving, and deep connection during the fourth trimester. Learn how to honor your postpartum journey with simple, yet powerful practices that support lasting wellness . Whether you're an expecting parent, new parent, or support person, this conversation offers invaluable tools to nurture mind...

Dec 28, 20241 hr 3 minSeason 1Ep. 126

Data-Driven Parenting With Dr Amanda P Williams

This episode featuring Dr Amanda P Williams is dedicated to how data can be a tool for informed decision-making, creating positive outcomes for both parents and their children. With 35% of U.S. counties classified as Maternity Care Deserts—lacking essential maternal care resources—data and technology are critical in bridging gaps in access and information. Tools like virtual visits, online data platforms such as Peristats, and virtual parenting assistants like HelloGaia empower parents and careg...

Dec 21, 202442 minSeason 1Ep. 125

Future-Ready: Boost Your Kid's Success With These Positive Mindset Practices

In this episode, Jesse Bennett, an author and advocate for positive thinking among children, guides us on helping kids boost their success by developing a positive mindset through kindness, self-talk, and mindfulness practices. She emphasizes that kindness begins within oneself. By teaching children to love and believe in themselves and encouraging them to recognize their inner light, they can extend this kindness to others. Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com Connect with Jesse Bennett ...

Dec 14, 202434 minSeason 1Ep. 124

Meet Your Parenting Copilot: HelloGaia Makes Raising Kids Easier

In this episode, hosted by Didi D'Errico as a special edition, we focus on ACTIONABLE ways you can build more reliable, more accessible and more timely support as a new parent. We know there are enough barriers to support for new parents as it is, as highlighted by March of Dimes in their recent report on Maternity Care Deserts - THANK YOU for providing insights and data! We talk you through specific steps you can take to have a better-resourced fourth trimester and beyond. We highlight FREE pla...

Nov 30, 202448 minSeason 1Ep. 123

The Top 10 Toddler Sleep Questions Every Parent Asks with Dr Angelique Millette

In this episode, Sarah Trott talks with pediatric sleep consultant Dr. Angelique Millette to answer the top 10 TODDLER sleep questions every parent has. (Go to the BABY episode if you want help with baby sleep! Link below.) Dr. Millette shares her expertise on the challenges of toddler sleep, providing practical solutions for common issues like bedtime resistance, night wakings, early morning risings, and more. She also covers how to recognize signs of sleep readiness, establish effective bedtim...

Nov 16, 20241 hr 8 minSeason 1Ep. 122

Optimizing Your Mental Health with Dr Ida Eden, Reproductive Psychiatrist

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Ida Eden, a reproductive psychiatrist and faculty member at Weill Cornell Medicine, to explore how you can optimize your emotional and psychological well-being during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or simply navigating the transition into parenthood, Dr. Eden will provide insights and practical tools to help you feel empowered and supported. Find out what to do BEFORE baby arrives , and how you can start op...

Nov 02, 202443 minSeason 1Ep. 121

Baby Travel Tips - Stay Calm And Mother Up with Kacie McDonnell Hosmer & Gianna DeMedio Simon

On this episode of the Fourth Trimester Podcast, we're bringing you the ultimate travel guide for parents. Our special guests, Mother Up creators Kacie McDonnell Hosmer, former host of FOX Nation and Mansion Global , and Gianna DeMedio Simon, host of the podcast So Sorry for Your Loss , share their tried-and-true tips for traveling with little ones. Between them, they’ve wrangled three children under four while navigating air and car travel, and their advice will help you make your next trip as ...

Oct 19, 202453 minSeason 1Ep. 120

Morning Sickness Causes and Cures: Hyperemesis Genetic Link Discovered by USC Geneticist Dr Marlena Fejzo

Rather amazingly, there hasn't been much research into the causes and potential cures for the nausea that around 70% of people experience during pregnancy. Until now. Thankfully, Dr Marlena Fejzo is dedicating her life's work to finding ways to alleviate the full spectrum of mild cases of "morning sickness" to severe nausea to, on the extreme end, hyperemesis. She herself experienced hyperemesis. She knows firsthand the debilitating effects of the disease. Already she has clearly identified one ...

Oct 05, 202442 minSeason 1Ep. 119

Budgeting for Baby: Three Essential Steps for A Successful Family Budget

In this episode of Fourth Trimester Podcast, we are joined by an experienced financial advisor, Laura Davis CFP. This episode centers on how families can create a budget that sets the family up for financial success , including: what a budget is, how to create one, considerations before having a baby, what to budget for during pregnancy, postpartum and longer term (kids education, your own retirement etc.) We also have a great conversation around helping raise children to be financially independ...

Sep 21, 202444 minSeason 1Ep. 118

Evidence Based Care for Improving Postpartum Recovery - Dr Rebecca Dekker

Dr Rebecca Dekker of Evidence Based Birth provides clear, plain-language guidance on postpartum recovery, including the very immediate period after birth from delivering the placenta and then through the extended fourth trimester. Learn what the evidence points to so that you can make informed decisions and enhance your recovery period. Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.com Resources Skin to Skin After A Cesarean Evidence on Pitocin During the Third Stage of Labor Why Postpartum Midwifery i...

Sep 07, 202449 minSeason 1Ep. 117

Breastfeeding Essentials Part 2: Manage Milk Supply, Proper Breast Pump Usage, Feeding On Demand

In this episode of the Fourth Trimester Podcast, we asked a panel of breastfeeding educators and practitioners to help us put together a 2-part guide on breastfeeding. Importantly, this is a NO JUDGMENT guide. Just the facts and plain language explanations that help you on your journey. Part 2 covers a wide range of topics including: managing milk supply, breast pump usage, feeding schedules and more. Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com Links and resources mentioned on the show: Lactatio...

Aug 24, 20241 hr 5 minSeason 1Ep. 116

Breastfeeding Essentials Part 1: No Judgment Guide - Say Goodbye To Breastfeeding Pain

In this episode of the Fourth Trimester Podcast, we asked a panel of breastfeeding educators and practitioners to help us put together a 2-part guide on breastfeeding. Importantly, this is a NO JUDGMENT guide. Just the facts and plain language explanations that help you on your journey. The content of the guide includes answers to the top breastfeeding questions new parents frequently have during the first 24 hours with a newborn through to the continued breastfeeding years. Full show notes four...

Aug 10, 202451 minSeason 1Ep. 115

Family Financial Wellness: Three Finance Must-dos for Families - Don’t Make These Small Mistakes That Will Have a Big Impact Later

In this episode we are joined by an experienced financial advisor, Laura Davis CFP. Laura shares her expertise in transforming financial lives and provides actionable steps that parents and soon-to-be parents can take to secure a strong financial future for their families. Learn the three financial must-dos for families that can help set your family up for success. Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.com Learn more Sara Mauskopf CEO and Co-founder of Winnie | winnie.com | LegalZoom Estate Pla...

Jul 27, 202444 minSeason 1Ep. 114

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 Village When to Start Putting Resources in Place Clinic...

Jul 13, 202437 minSeason 1Ep. 113
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