The Fourth Trimester

When your baby is born, it must be a quite a shock to him or her. They go from a warm, safe place to the outside world, which is colder, brighter, louder and probably a bit scary. This phase right after birth is often called the fourth trimester, and it’s a very important time in the life of both the baby and the parents. If this is your first baby, the fourth trimester is a time of trial and error – but the rewards of bonding with your little one are immeasurable! Best of all, the dad plays a crucial role during this special time.

Here are some things that you can do to welcome your baby to the fourth trimester.

• Skin-to-Skin Contact. Babies are greatly soothed by skin-to-skin contact. Many moms feel that their babies cry less and sleep longer, and studies show that it’s also good for baby’s heart rate. There are benefits for mom too: skin-to-skin contact can lower stress levels and brighten moods.

• Baby Wearing. Many parents find it easy to soothe their baby by using a carrier or sling. Let’s face it, your arms can only hold a baby for so long before they get tired. The physical contact, plus close proximity to the wearer’s heartbeat is calming to babies, especially during the first few months.

• Talking and Reading to Baby. They can’t respond in words, but talking and reading to your baby exposes them to language and creates a communication bridge that will entertain and enrich them. "I used to talk through everything while looking into my son's eyes: 'I'm putting a sock on your right foot, then I'm going to put one on your left foot.' It sounds silly to write it out but it was very connecting," said Kyrie of Castle Rock, CO.

• Massage. Baby massage can create a happier, more relaxed baby. You don’t have to be an expert because it’s so easy. Some helpful instructions are here. I massaged my daughter as an infant while singing to her, and it was just as important for bonding as nursing. Even if one of us was having a bad day, our one-on-one time relaxed us both. I was surprised one day when, at eight months, she scooted across the floor, dragging her massage blanket along, and placed it in front of me while wiggling her arms around. It was a clear sign that she looked forward to this time, and I loved how she was so responsive.  

Bonding with your infant isn’t only for moms. Fathers and babies love to spend time together. “I think it was easier for me than for my husband since I was the primary caregiver. We bought him a book called Rookie Dad that had all kinds of exercises he could do with the baby to help our son's development and help him bond. My hubby loved it and did lots of exercises with both of my boys. It really helped him bond right from the start,” said Kyrie.

Parents and babies both enjoy bonding time during the fourth trimester. Keep your little one close and let him or her know how happy you are to be spending time with them. One day soon, they’ll be ready to become independent because of how nurtured they felt with you.