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."

I had no idea there was a “4th trimester” until I had my first baby! I’m so glad I know now! 

I’m not only going to share with you what to expect in each, but also a lot of local resources you can use as you plan for your pregnancy, newborn and birth in Honolulu.

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 moms can truly understand.

I didn't have a noticeable belly until well into my second trimester. Sometimes, I had wished it would have popped sooner!

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. Here are some fun things you can do during this stage of pregnancy.

• Plan a pregnancy announcement photoshoot. These are so fun and a great way to let people know the good news.
• Find a local shop and purchase a few cute maternity outfits to get you through the next few months of pregnancy.
• Find a great place to workout to stay healthy and active during your pregnancy. You can even find a local gym that offers prenatal yoga where you can meet other expecting mamas.

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.

This is the phase where you are probably in full nesting mode and putting together a nursery. But don't forget to look into local birthing classes for you and your partner to be extra prepared for the big day. I really enjoyed having a Doula with both of my births to have the extra support in such a vulnerable time. Some couples also use this time to plan a baby moon and get a way together one last time before their sweet baby arrives.

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 remember waiting for that day to come. I was so grateful I hired a birth photographer to capture both of my babies arrivals. The experience can sometimes get blurred, but the images helped me remember all the details and events that led up to meeting my baby.

If you want more details on birth, make sure to check out this blog post all about 10 Things I wish I knew 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 birth 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.

I found it so helpful to join different mom groups and meet other mamas who were in the trenches of newborn life with me. It is also a good time to seek out breastfeeding support if you are having challenges and hoping to breastfeed your baby.

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!

Since you made it all the way down here – are you looking for a Honolulu Newborn Photographer?