The 5 Stages of Pregnancy (Including the Secret 4th Trimester!) from a Pittsburgh baby and pregnancy photographer and mom of 2.
Did you know there are actually more than the typical three trimesters of pregnancy? As any Pittsburgh baby and pregnancy photographer will tell you, capturing these moments is precious. Today I’m sharing everything you can expect—from those first few weeks to the mysterious “fourth trimester.”
I’ll be honest: I had no idea the 4th trimester even existed until after I’d had two babies! I wish I’d known sooner, because it explained so much of what I went through.
As a Pittsburgh baby and pregnancy photographer (and mom!), I not only want to walk you through what each stage looks like, but also share some incredible local resources to help you through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum in Pittsburgh.
First Trimester: The Secret Life of Pregnancy
The first trimester feels like a secret club—only you and your growing baby know what’s happening. Your body is working overtime, and you might be feeling the effects (hello, morning sickness). It can feel surreal and isolating all at once.
I remember sneaking off to the bathroom at work constantly to deal with nausea, trying to keep my pregnancy a secret. Honestly, I’m shocked no one figured it out. Morning sickness was brutal!
- For me, Jolly Ranchers were the only thing that calmed my stomach.
- Way Wellness Center offers acupuncture, massage therapy, and herbal medicine—all supportive options for morning sickness relief.
Second Trimester: The Golden Age
The second trimester is often called the “golden age” of pregnancy. Nausea usually subsides, your bump starts showing, and energy returns—it’s time to enjoy the journey.
I’ll never forget announcing my pregnancy with our sweet cat, Rufus. After three years of fertility treatments, I was terrified sharing the news would somehow “jinx” it. But once we did, I realized how much joy it brought to let others celebrate with us.
- Baltic Born has beautiful bump-friendly dresses that also transition well after pregnancy.
Third Trimester: The Home Stretch
The third trimester is when things start to feel real. You’re preparing for baby, but also juggling exhaustion and anticipation.
The nursery: Some families have it ready months in advance, while others admit their six-month-old still doesn’t have one. Personally, I had nurseries ready with both kids—but neither of them used it until at least 8 weeks! Don’t stress if you’re not “ready.”
Support during this stage:
- Mpower Mental Health LLC provides birth doula services and compassionate support for mothers through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
- Preparing siblings? We involved our daughter by letting her help decorate, pick clothes, and choose items for her baby brother. (If you want more on this, check out my blog on preparing your child for a sibling!)
Birth: The Main Event
And then—baby day! Every birth story is different, but all are deeply meaningful.
My two experiences were polar opposites: with my daughter, my water broke at work, my epidural didn’t work, and I felt everything. With my son, I was induced, my epidural worked like a dream, and I only pushed three times before he arrived. Both were powerful and unforgettable in their own ways.
- Bee Nourished Lactation Services offers in-home breastfeeding support. Don’t hesitate to reach out, the first few weeks of breastfeeding is HARD. They can help you!
Want more? Check out my blog: 10 Things Your Doctor Doesn’t Tell You About Giving Birth.
And remember—you’ll never regret capturing these first moments. Whether it’s hiring a birth photographer or scheduling a “48-hour” session in the hospital, those images will mean the world later. As a Pittsburgh baby and pregnancy photographer, I would be honored to capture those memories for you.
The 4th Trimester: What No One Tells You
Surprise! Your pregnancy journey doesn’t end with birth. The 4th trimester (the first three months postpartum) is full of adjustments—physically, emotionally, and mentally—for both you and your baby.
With my first, I wasn’t prepared. The emotions and overwhelm hit me hard, and I struggled with anxiety and guilt around feeding. I wish I’d reached out for professional help sooner, but thankfully my husband and family supported me through it. If you’re in this stage, please don’t wait—ask for help. You don’t have to do it alone.
- Center for Counseling and Conscious Healing offers therapy, parenting support, and wellness services.
- Need feeding support? Check out my blog: When to Seek Breastfeeding Support (Pittsburgh Resources).
Final Thoughts
Pregnancy is such a unique and personal journey. Some parts may feel magical, while others are messy and hard. That’s okay. With support—and the right resources—you’ll navigate each stage in your own way.
Looking for More Local Support?
Since you made it all the way here, I’ve got something special for you:
✨ Download my Local Resource Guide for Pittsburgh Moms —a free collection of trusted services and businesses to support you through pregnancy, birth, and beyond.
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