The third trimester is an exciting and emotional time as you prepare to meet your baby. With so much to do before the big day, staying organized can help reduce stress and ensure that you're ready for the arrival of your little one. Here’s your ultimate third-trimester checklist to guide you through the final weeks of pregnancy.
1. Finalize Your Birth Plan
Discuss with your healthcare provider the key aspects of your birth plan. Consider preferences like:
- Pain management options (epidural, natural methods)
- Who you want in the delivery room
- Preferences for labor positions, induction, or C-sections if needed
- Newborn care (delayed cord clamping, skin-to-skin contact)
2. Pack Your Hospital Bag
Get your hospital bag ready by the time you hit 36 weeks. Here’s a quick list of essentials:
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For Mom: Comfy clothes, nursing bras, toiletries, slippers, and a phone charger.
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For Baby: A going-home outfit, diapers, and a blanket.
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For Partner: Snacks, a change of clothes, and a camera. Don’t forget important documents like your ID, insurance information, and any medical records your hospital might need.
3. Install the Car Seat
Make sure your car seat is correctly installed. You can schedule a check at your local fire station or look up a certified child passenger safety technician to ensure proper installation. Remember, the hospital won't let you leave without one installed!
4. Set Up the Nursery
Get the nursery ready by setting up the crib, changing station, and organizing baby clothes. Essentials include:
- Crib or bassinet with fitted sheets
- Changing table stocked with diapers and wipes
- Comfortable chair for nursing or rocking
- Storage for baby clothes, blankets, and essentials like pacifiers
5. Stock Up on Baby Essentials
In addition to diapers, make sure you have the following items ready for your baby’s first few weeks:
- Baby clothes (onesies, sleep sacks)
- Bottles (even if breastfeeding, having bottles on hand is a good idea)
- Baby toiletries like shampoo, lotion, and diaper cream
- Swaddle blankets and burp cloths
6. Prepare Freezer Meals
In the early weeks with a newborn, you’ll appreciate having ready-to-go meals on hand. Cook and freeze meals ahead of time, or plan to stock up on easy-to-prepare foods. Focus on nutrient-rich options that will fuel your recovery.
7. Take a Birthing or Infant Care Class
If you haven’t already, now is a great time to take a birthing class or an infant care class. Many hospitals offer virtual classes that cover everything from labor and delivery to breastfeeding and infant CPR. These will help you feel more prepared and confident for what’s ahead.
8. Prepare for Postpartum Recovery
Set up a comfortable recovery station at home. Stock up on postpartum care products like:
- Maternity pads and comfortable underwear
- Perineal spray or cooling pads
- Breastfeeding supplies (nursing bras, nipple cream, breast pads) Plan to have items within easy reach in the bathroom and near your bed.
9. Get Financial and Legal Affairs in Order
If you haven’t already, finalize your parental leave from work, and notify your employer of your due date. Consider updating or setting up a will, and if possible, establish a plan for health insurance for the baby.
10. Make Time for Self-Care
While the third trimester can be physically and emotionally demanding, it’s important to make time for yourself:
- Get plenty of rest and listen to your body
- Enjoy light exercise like walking or prenatal yoga
- Treat yourself to a prenatal massage or a relaxing bath
11. Pre-Register at the Hospital
If your hospital or birthing center offers pre-registration, get it done! It will save you time and hassle when you arrive in labor. You can also familiarize yourself with the route to the hospital and check parking options.
12. Stay On Top of Prenatal Appointments
Your prenatal appointments are likely every two weeks or weekly as you approach your due date. These visits monitor your baby’s health, and they give you a chance to ask any last-minute questions about labor, delivery, or postpartum care.
13. Consider a Pediatrician
Now is the time to research and choose a pediatrician for your baby. Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your obstetrician, and schedule a prenatal consultation if possible. Having a pediatrician lined up will make your baby’s first check-up stress-free.
14. Prepare for Labor Signs
As you approach your due date, learn the signs of labor, such as:
- Regular contractions that increase in intensity
- Your water breaking
- Loss of the mucus plug
- Lower back pain or cramping Knowing when to go to the hospital is key, so review this with your healthcare provider.
The third trimester is all about preparation — physically, emotionally, and logistically. By checking off these essential tasks, you’ll feel more ready to welcome your baby into the world. Remember to enjoy these final weeks of pregnancy and look forward to the exciting moment when you meet your little one!
