Mama, if you’re reading this, chances are you’re expecting or have recently welcomed your precious little one. Congratulations! 💕 The 4th trimester—the first three months postpartum—is a whirlwind of emotions, healing, and adjusting to life with a newborn. Whether this is your first baby or your fifth, the postpartum period is challenging. I know firsthand how overwhelming those early weeks can be, but I also found a few things that truly helped me feel more supported, sane, and even a little bit like myself again.

If you’re preparing for postpartum, here are three things that made all the difference for me:

1. A Postpartum Doula during the 4th Trimester

I can’t recommend this enough! A postpartum doula is like a fairy godmother for new moms. I really wish I had had one after reading all the benefits they offer. Having someone reassure me that I was doing a great job while also giving me hands-on help with my newborn (and even letting me sneak in a nap!) was a game-changer. Here is another article about the benefits of Doula that I highly recommend checking out. Here is my recommendation: Encompass Birth & Wellness LLC.

Even if hiring a doula isn’t in your budget, see if a close friend or family member can come over to help during those early weeks. Trust me—you’ll be so grateful for the extra set of hands!

2. Meal Delivery (or a Meal Train!)

The last thing I wanted to do in those early weeks was cook during the 4th trimester. I was healing, exhausted, and just trying to keep up with feedings and diaper changes. Having easy, nutritious meals ready to go was a lifesaver.

Friends set up a meal train where they dropped off homemade meals. It was amazing not having to worry about what to eat while making sure I was fueling my body properly for recovery and breastfeeding. If you’re expecting, I highly recommend setting this up now—you’ll thank yourself later!

3. A Newborn Photography Session

Okay, I might be a little biased here, but I can’t express how much my newborn photos mean to me. The newborn phase is so fleeting, and those first few weeks pass in a blur of sleepless nights and snuggles. Having professional photos of my baby (and our whole family together) helped me pause and soak in those precious moments.

I love looking back at those images now—remembering the way my baby curled up so tiny in my arms, the softness of those newborn features, and the overwhelming love I felt in those early days. If you haven’t booked your newborn session yet, now is the perfect time! I’d be honored to capture this beautiful season of your life for you.

Mama, You Deserve Support

Whether it’s hiring a postpartum doula, making sure you have easy meals, or investing in memories that last a lifetime, taking care of YOU is just as important as taking care of your baby.

If you’re expecting and looking for a photographer who understands the beauty and challenges of this season, I’d love to connect with you! Book your maternity and newborn photography session with me today, and let’s create something beautiful together.

📷 Book Your Session Here

Other Things That Help in the 4th Trimester:

• A comfy nursing/pumping station (stocked with water, snacks, and burp cloths!)
• A peri bottle & sitz baths (for easier postpartum healing)
• ABCmouse.com or other toddler activities (if you have older kiddos)
• A good water bottle (hydration is key for healing and milk supply!)

Would you add anything else? What helped YOU in the 4th trimester? Drop a comment and let me know! 😊