The third trimester of pregnancy is a busy and exciting time. It’s when you really start preparing for your baby’s arrival—buying clothes, setting up the nursery, and handling your growing belly. While it can be a bit overwhelming, creating a to-do list or following a checklist can help you stay organized and tackle everything smoothly. Here’s a breakdown of some important tasks to focus on during your third trimester:
### Track Your Baby’s Movements
Pay close attention to your baby’s movements, like kicks, rolls, and stretches. If you notice they’re moving less than usual, let your doctor or midwife know immediately, as it might signal a problem. Your healthcare provider might even suggest dedicating specific times each day to count the baby’s movements and ensure everything looks good.
### Understand Your Prenatal Visits and Tests
During weeks 28 to 36, you’ll probably have prenatal checkups every two weeks, and then every week until delivery. These visits are crucial for monitoring both your health and the baby’s development. Your provider may discuss labor plans, conduct physical exams, and perform some late-stage tests.
### Take Helpful Classes
In addition to childbirth classes, consider enrolling in baby care, breastfeeding, and infant CPR courses. Many hospitals offer these, or you can ask your healthcare provider for recommendations.
### Get Ready for Breastfeeding
Start learning about breastfeeding before the baby arrives. You can attend a breastfeeding class, read articles, or chat with moms who’ve done it before. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel when feeding your baby.
### Choose a Pediatrician
Ask your provider, family, or friends for pediatrician recommendations. Pick someone who accepts your insurance, has convenient office hours, and is easy to reach. If possible, schedule interviews with top candidates since your baby’s first checkup will happen shortly after birth.
### Prepare for Labor and Birth
Talk with your midwife or doctor about what to expect during labor and how to manage pain. They’ll also measure your bump at every appointment to track the baby’s growth. If needed, you may get an additional ultrasound. First-time moms may be offered a membrane sweep at 40 weeks to trigger labor, with further options discussed at 41 weeks if needed.
### Know Symptoms to Never Ignore
Be aware of serious pregnancy symptoms like preeclampsia, which can involve high blood pressure, vision problems, or swollen hands and feet. Stay alert for severe headaches or nausea and contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice anything unusual.
### Maintain Proper Nutrition
Eating well is crucial in the third trimester. Focus on iron-rich foods like lean meats, leafy greens, and fortified cereals to prevent anemia and support both you and your baby’s health.
### Stretch and Stay Active
Gentle stretches can help alleviate pregnancy aches and pains, especially leg cramps. Stay active with light movements or exercises to keep your body flexible and prepared for childbirth.
### Bond with Your Bump
Spend time connecting with your baby through gentle belly massages or simply talking or singing to them. Reading aloud, whether from a book or magazine, is another way to start building that bond.
### Finish Setting Up the Nursery
Assemble baby furniture like cribs and strollers while you have extra time and help. Stock up on essentials like clothes, diapers, and bedding, and make sure to wash everything in baby-friendly detergent.
### Pack Your Hospital Bag
Prepare for the unexpected by packing your hospital bag ahead of time. Include everything you’ll need for labor, your stay, and the baby’s first trip home.
### Sleep Comfortably
If you’re having trouble sleeping, invest in a supportive pregnancy pillow. Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees can make a big difference for both comfort and safety.
### Stock Up on Supplies and Meals
Prepare your home by stocking up on household essentials and meal-prepping. Freezing meals ahead will make those first few postpartum weeks much easier.
### Install the Car Seat
Ensure your baby’s car seat is installed properly and fits your car. This is mandatory for bringing the baby home from the hospital and keeping them safe during rides.
### Learn About Labor and Delivery
Understand the stages of labor, what contractions feel like, and how to identify when it’s the real thing versus Braxton Hicks. Educating yourself can make the process feel more manageable.
### Create a Birth Plan
Your birth plan will outline your preferences for labor and delivery, such as pain management options and who you want in the room.
### Read Up on Newborn Care
With your baby’s arrival just around the corner, this is the perfect time to read books, watch videos, or attend classes about taking care of a newborn.
### Handle Pre-Birth Nerves
It’s normal to feel anxious as your due date approaches. Use relaxation techniques like deep breathing, prenatal yoga, or meditation to ease any worries.
### Slow Down
Take it easy as your due date approaches. Avoid jumping up too quickly to prevent dizziness, and give yourself time to rest and recharge.
### Prepare for Post-Birth Changes
Know that your body will need time to recover after delivery. Don’t rush into losing weight or bouncing back. Be patient and take care of yourself.
### Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water—at least 8–10 glasses daily—to stay hydrated and flush out toxins. If your urine looks dark, it’s a sign you may need to drink more.
### Move and Walk
A short daily walk can boost your energy, improve circulation, and relieve stress. It’s also one of the easiest and safest exercises during pregnancy.
### Stock Up on Healthy Snacks
Fill your pantry with colorful fruits, veggies, nuts, and other nutrient-packed foods to fuel your energy in the coming weeks.
### Build a Support Network
Pregnancy can feel overwhelming at times, so make time to connect with friends and family. Sharing your thoughts and worries can help lighten the load.
### Get Tech-Savvy
Download apps to track contractions, baby milestones, or other pregnancy-related details. These tools can be fun and helpful as you count down to delivery.
### Prepare for Postpartum Comfort
Get nursing bras, comfy clothing, and other essentials for after delivery. Stock up on postpartum pads and other recovery items.
### Baby-Proof Your Home
Ensure your home is safe for the baby with child-proof locks, secured furniture, and other safety measures. Taking these steps early will make life easier once they’re mobile.
### Plan Birth Announcements
Think about how you’d like to share the news of your baby’s arrival—whether through social media, texts, phone calls, or emails.
### Celebrate with a Baby Shower
If you haven’t had one yet, a baby shower is a great way to celebrate your little one and check a few more items off your registry.
### Take Time for Yourself
Don’t forget to pause, relax, and enjoy this special time. Slow down as your due date approaches and cherish the final moments of pregnancy.
Motherhood is a life-changing journey, and while the final weeks can feel overwhelming, it’s also a time of excitement and anticipation. By following this checklist, you can prepare yourself mentally, physically, and emotionally for the incredible adventure ahead.