Postpartum mood changes
If you're feeling persistently sad, anxious, disconnected, or unable to care for yourself or your baby, tell your provider. Postpartum depression and anxiety affect many parents and are treatable. You don't need to push through alone.
Development at four weeks
Your baby is now about 10–12 cm longer than at birth and has gained significant weight. They are increasingly alert during wake periods, holding eye contact for longer stretches and responding to your face and voice.
Many four-week-olds begin to lift their head briefly during tummy time. Grasp reflex is still strong — your baby will hold a finger tightly. This is reflexive, not intentional, but connection through touch matters.
- More sustained eye contact
- Brief head lifting during tummy time
- Recognizes your voice and face
- May begin to coo or make small vowel sounds
1-month pediatrician visit
Your baby's 1-month checkup is an important visit. Your provider will check growth (weight, length, head circumference), discuss feeding, review development, and give you a chance to ask any questions that have built up over the first four weeks.
Vaccinations may begin at this visit depending on your country and healthcare provider's schedule. Ask your provider what to expect.
Your recovery and wellbeing
If you gave birth, four weeks postpartum is still early in physical recovery. Rest is still important. If you're experiencing persistent sadness, anxiety, difficulty bonding, or feeling overwhelmed in a way that doesn't lift, speak to your provider — postpartum mood disorders are common and treatable.
Tips for this stage
Talk to your baby constantly
Narrating your day ('Now I'm changing your diaper,' 'Let's get dressed') builds language development long before your baby can respond. It also helps you feel less alone during repetitive care tasks.
Write down your 1-month visit questions
Four weeks of questions can add up. Write them down as they occur to you so you don't forget anything at the pediatric visit. No question is too small.