Did you know there are more than the typical three trimesters of pregnancy?

Today, I’m sharing from my experience about everything you can expect from conception to the mysterious “4th trimester.”

I’ll be honest—before diving into newborn photography and working with so many incredible moms, I had no idea the “4th trimester” was even a thing! But after thinking back through my own pregnancy experiences, and hearing so many stories from my clients, I’ve realized just how important this stage is. Whether you’re expecting your first baby or adding another little one to your crew, I hope these insights (and local Carlsbad resources) help you navigate this journey with confidence.

First Trimester: The Secret Life of Pregnancy

The first trimester is like a secret club where only you and your growing baby are members. Your body is working overtime to create a new life, and you might be feeling the effects (hello, morning sickness).

I remember one of my clients telling me she was so excited to share the news but had to hide her nausea from her coworkers—she kept a stash of ginger chews in her desk drawer like it was a top-secret mission! If you’re struggling with morning sickness, check out Carlsbad Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine, which specializes in pregnancy-related treatments.

Other helpful local resources:

• Frazier Farms Market in Oceanside – A great place to grab organic ginger, crackers, and other nausea-soothing foods.
• Carlsbad Midwives – If you’re considering a midwife, they can offer holistic pregnancy care and support.

Second Trimester: The Golden Age

For many, the second trimester is the golden age of pregnancy—nausea subsides, energy returns, and the baby bump finally pops! This is also when many of my clients book maternity sessions, which I love because you’re glowing and feeling great!

Need help finding cute maternity outfits? Mia Bella Couture in Carlsbad has beautiful, flowy dresses that photograph beautifully. Or if you’re staying active during pregnancy, Yoga Six Carlsbad offers prenatal yoga classes that many of my clients swear by!

Third Trimester: The Home Stretch

The third trimester is when things get real. You’re prepping the nursery, finalizing your birth plan, and probably wondering how your baby will actually fit inside those tiny newborn clothes.

Some of my clients are super planners and have their nurseries ready by month seven, while others admit their baby didn’t have a proper nursery until six months old. No shame either way! If you’re looking for adorable nursery decor, Babies in Bloom in Vista has a great selection of furniture and baby gear.

Another key part of this stage? Birth prep! If you’re considering extra support, check out Carlsbad Birth Doula Services for incredible local doulas who can guide you through labor and delivery.

** bonus tip, somewhere in the beginning to middle of your third trimester is an excellent time for a maternity session, your belly has grown to be big and beautiful, but you’re not quite to uncomfortable yet for photos!**

Birth: The Main Event

The moment you’ve been waiting for is finally here—whether it’s a planned C-section or an unexpected whirlwind of events, birth is always an adventure.

One of my clients shared how she labored at Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas and had the most supportive nurses who made the whole experience more comforting. Another mom found incredible breastfeeding support from The Birth Education Center of San Diego, which offers lactation consultations and newborn care classes.

No matter how your birth story unfolds, it’s a moment you’ll want to remember forever. As a newborn photographer, I always hear parents say, “I wish I had more photos from the day they were born.” If you’re considering birth photography, let’s chat—I promise you won’t regret having those memories preserved!

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.

This stage can be beautiful and overwhelming. Many moms experience the baby blues or even postpartum anxiety, and it’s so important to know you’re not alone. Postpartum Health Alliance San Diego offers support groups and resources to help navigate this transition.

If you’re breastfeeding and need guidance, La Jolla Lactation is an amazing resource for lactation consulting and pumping support.

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.

Since You Made It This Far…

Are you looking for a Carlsbad newborn photographer to capture your baby’s first days? Click [here] to see my newborn portfolio and learn how we can create timeless, heartwarming images of your little one!

Please Note: I am a not a doctor or health, professional, just a mama and a newborn photographer speaking from my own experience with my babies and from client stories that I have heard over my 20 years as a professional portrait photographer in North County. 

Planning your own photos? Lets chat!