5 Stages of Pregnancy You Never Knew Existed From a Derbyshire Newborn & Maternity Photographer
Did you know there are more than the typical 3 trimesters of pregnancy? Today I’m spilling the tea on everything you can expect from conception to the mysterious "4th trimester."
After a fairly easy first pregnancy I was shocked at how much I struggled with my second with pelvic girdle pain from very early on!! Regular visits to see my fabulous Chiropracter Libby at S1 Chiropractic and in the end some accupuncture with Lifei at Life and lemons.
First Trimester: The Secret Life of Pregnancy
The first trimester is like a secret club where only you and your growing baby are members. During these first 12 weeks, your body is working overtime to create a new life, and you might be feeling the effects (hello, morning sickness). It's like you're part of an exclusive group that only fellow expectant mums can truly understand. For me I had the morning sickness but just the constant feeling of being sick and luckily was never actually sick!!
Here are some other resources in Derbyshire and Sheffield for the 1st trimester.
S1 Chiropractic (Libby & Kate both work specifically with pregnant ladies and babies) https://www.s1chiropractic.com
Life & Lemons (I saw Lifei but I know Kim is amazing too) https://www.lifeandlemons.clinic
Second Trimester: The Golden Age
For many, the second trimester is the golden age of pregnancy, where you can finally start enjoying the journey. With the nausea subsiding and the baby bump showing, it's time to embrace the experience.
• Now is the time to start thinking about booking a maternity session if this interests you. There are usually done around 33 weeks of pregnancy but need to be booked in advance. See my maternity gallery here.
• I splashed out on a couple of really comfy and great fitting maternity clothes from Seraphine although I mainly lived in oversized t-shirts and leggings! (don’t judge me, comfort is paramount)
Third Trimester: The Home Stretch
The third trimester is when things start to get real. As you prepare for your baby's arrival, you'll want to make sure you have everything in place for a smooth transition.
The Nursery
We hadn’t even moved back into our house when Alfie was born (I feel like this is a lot of people too, having a baby and renovating a house simultaneously) I knew he would be in with us for a long time anyway so enjoyed making his room lovely once he was here but I had the basics!
Derbyshire Birth Class or Doula
I can recommend Hannah at You doula you in Derbyshire - https://www.youdoulayou.co.uk/
Sally from @blossombirth offers mindful natal classes in groups or private. She will be holding her group courses at my studio in September/October time. www.blossombirth.co.uk
Preparing with Your Partner (or older children) For the New Baby
When I was pregnant with Margot we talked a lot to Alfie about the baby in mummy’s tummy and he was so excited. He used to kiss my tummy and talk to the baby a lot!
Birth: The Main Event
The moment you've been waiting for is finally here: birth! Whether you're planning a natural birth or a C-section, this stage is exciting and emotional!
I used hypnobirthing and found it super helpful for both pregnancies it is like a form of meditation and so helps through any birth. I also found it really helpful to learn more about how our bodies work in labour… knowledge is power!!!
I can recommend Gill at Your cozy birth. She teaches hypnobirthing and was previously a midwife so is very knowledgable - https://www.yourcozybirth.co.uk/
If you want more details on birth, make sure to check out this blog post all about 10 Things Your Doctor Doesn’t Tell You About Giving Birth.
Of course, these are moments you’ll always want to remember (even if things don’t go perfectly according to plan). Hiring a newborn photographer is something I’ve never heard anyone say they regret!
The 4th Trimester: What No One Tells You
Surprise! Your journey doesn't end with birth. The 4th trimester is the first three months of your baby's life, where both of you are adjusting to the world outside the womb.
If you are struggling with your mental health before or after having your baby there are resources available. Here is a link to the NHS website where you can seek help - https://www.derbyshirehealthcareft.nhs.uk/services/mental-health-and-emotional-wellbeing/perinatal-mother-and-baby-services
When is it time to ask for breastfeeding support? Check out this blog post all about breastfeeding and Derbyshire resources.
Of course, every journey is unique, and it's okay to feel a whole range of emotions along the way. As long as you've got your support system and resources, you'll be able to navigate this crazy adventure.
Thanks for reading! I hope reading ‘5 Stages of Pregnancy You Never Knew Existed From a Derbyshire Newborn Photographer’ has been insightful! If you’re still looking for a Derbyshire Newborn or Maternity Photographer, click here to see my portfolio of Maternity & Newborn images.