How to Thrive in the Fourth Trimester

Getting postpartum care during the first 12 weeks after giving birth, also known as the fourth trimester, is crucial to a mom’s health—so why are only 40 percent of new moms going to their postpartum follow-up appointment? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one third of maternal deaths occur after the birth of the baby. The number is tripled for Black women when compared to white women. Having a strong support system, monitoring your physical and mental health, getting regular check-ups and finding time to rest and heal are all ways you can protect yourself during the fourth trimester.