5 Stages of Pregnancy You Never Knew Existed From an Inland Empire Maternity Photographer

Did you know there are more than the typical three trimesters of stages of pregnancy? Today I’m spilling the tea on everything you can expect from conception to the mysterious 4th trimester.

I’ll be honest, I had no idea there was such a thing as a “4th trimester” until after I had two babies of my own. Looking back, I wish I had known sooner because it would have helped me give myself more grace in those early postpartum weeks. If you’re pregnant now (or hoping to be soon), my goal is to share not only what to expect during each stage, but also a handful of local resources here in Inland Empire that can make your journey easier.

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).

I remember in my first pregnancy, I used to sneak away to the bathroom at work to deal with nausea while trying to keep my pregnancy a secret from coworkers. It honestly felt like I was living a double life as a superhero, minus the cape!

Local support idea: Many moms in the Inland Empire area have found relief through acupuncture tailored for pregnancy. Clinics like Redlands Community Acupuncture offer treatments specifically aimed at easing morning sickness and fatigue.

Second Trimester: The Golden Age

For many, the second trimester is the golden age of the stages in pregnancy. Morning sickness fades, energy returns, and your baby bump finally shows off the good news.

When I was pregnant with my daughter, this was the time I felt the most “like myself” again. We used this stage to share our pregnancy announcement with family and friends, and finally buy a few maternity outfits that actually fit.

Local tip: If you’re in need of maternity wear, check out Motherhood Maternity at Inland Center Mall in San Bernardino or support a boutique like Sanctuary for Motherhood in Redlands for cozy, stylish pieces.

Third Trimester: The Home Stretch

This is when things start to get very real. Nesting kicks in, the countdown begins, and suddenly you’re making lists about lists.

When it came to the nursery, I’ve seen both ends of the spectrum with my clients. Some have the nursery fully set up months in advance, while others admit their little one didn’t have a “finished” room until six months old. Both are totally normal.

Local resource: For extra birth prep, Sacred Birth Doula Services in Redlands offers both childbirth education classes and doula support, helping you and your partner feel prepared and cared for in these final weeks.

Birth: The Main Event

The big day! Whether your story involves an induction, a C-section, or an unmedicated home birth, birth is a whirlwind of emotions you’ll never forget.

With my son’s birth, I’ll never forget the rush of relief when I heard his first cry. It’s one of those moments that permanently imprints itself on your heart.

Local help: If breastfeeding is part of your journey, the Loma Linda University Lactation Center is a trusted resource for new parents navigating those first latch struggles.

And of course, birth is one of those life-changing experiences you’ll want to remember. Hiring a birth photographer (or asking your photographer about referral options) ensures those first sacred moments are preserved forever.

The 4th Trimester: What No One Tells You

Surprise, pregnancy doesn’t really end with birth. The 4th trimester is the first three months of your baby’s life, and it’s a period of healing, adjusting, and figuring out your new rhythm as a family.

For me, the hardest part wasn’t just the lack of sleep but learning to give myself grace as my body healed and my emotions adjusted. Postpartum anxiety caught me off guard, but leaning on my support system and talking openly with my doctor made all the difference.

Local resources: Yucaipa moms can find encouragement through MOPS groups at local churches or Loma Linda University’s postpartum support groups. If you’re struggling, please know you’re not alone, and help is available.

Every journey is unique, and it’s okay to feel the whole spectrum of emotions. With the right resources and support system, you’ll be able to navigate this wild adventure of pregnancy, birth, and beyond.

Since you made it all the way down here…

Are you looking for an Inland Empire Maternity Photographer to help you preserve this incredible journey? Click here to see my maternity photography portfolio.