ND SCR4002

Declares September 23, 2021, as Fourth Trimester Care Day in North Dakota to recognize the first three months of motherhood as a critical period requiring dedicated care and support.

Identifies the gap in postpartum healthcare where mothers receive minimal followup (typically one visit at six weeks) compared to intensive pregnancy care, despite undergoing significant physical, hormonal, and psychosocial changes.

Addresses common postpartum health issues that often go undiagnosed and untreated, including breastfeeding problems, infections, depression, anxiety, incontinence, and various physical complications from childbirth.

Cites statistics showing only 29 percent of North Dakota infants were exclusively breastfed at six months despite an 84 percent initiation rate, attributed partly to unpaid maternity leave, workplace barriers, and nearly 25 percent of mothers returning to work within two weeks of birth.

Directs the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to the Governor and North Dakota's Congressional delegation.