The Fifth Trimester

Outline

The Fifth Trimester (2017) is a practical guide for new mothers returning to work after having a baby. Lauren Brody calls this transition the fifth trimester and offers advice on managing emotions, childcare, sleep, and career goals during this demanding time. Drawing on interviews with hundreds of working mothers, the book helps women return with confidence and encourages workplaces to better support new parents.

• The return to work after having a baby is a distinct transition, and Brody names it the fifth trimester.
• Going back to work involves managing emotions, childcare, sleep and career goals all at once, so each deserves a plan.
• The advice rests on interviews with hundreds of working mothers, so it reflects real experience rather than theory alone.
• With practical preparation, a new mother can return to her job feeling more confident.
• Workplaces share responsibility, and the book encourages them to support new parents better.

Lauren Brody is an American writer and former executive editor of Glamour magazine. After her own difficult return to work following maternity leave, she founded a consulting company that helps employers create family-friendly workplaces. The Fifth Trimester is her first book.