Here are ten important tips as you approach the last ten weeks of your pregnancy.
You’re getting so close and that is reason enough to celebrate! As you approach the end of your pregnancy, here are 10 tips for the last ten weeks of pregnancy that are important for you to know.
The third trimester is an enjoyable time for most pregnant women, at least for the majority of it. The morning sickness in those early weeks has been long gone, we made it through the second trimester of round ligaments aching, and we know we are getting close to meeting our little one. If it’s your first pregnancy or first baby you may not have thought about some of these. And even if you’ve been there done that, it’s nice to have a reminder.
10 Tips for the Last Ten Weeks of Pregnancy
1. Get moving.
Even if you haven’t exercised or been active this pregnancy, it isn’t too late. The benefits are enormous for your body and your upcoming labor and delivery. Did you know that simply walking while being mindful of your posture, can help your baby get into the right position for ease of birth?
Consider taking a pregnancy fitness class. There are very few times in your life you get the opportunity to do this because most of us are only pregnant a couple of times. Plus this builds community with other women who are going through the same season of life. If a class is out of the question, even 10 minutes a day of gentle exercises can be beneficial.
2. Pack your bag and your baby’s bag.
Keep in mind you will not be back to pre-pregnancy size immediately after childbirth. Pack maternity clothes that fit you around 6 months pregnant. Pants with elastic waistbands or nursing gowns are great options. Here’s the list I give to all of my patients.
Did you make a birth plan? Now’s a good time to because it gives you the opportunity to discuss it with your doctor or midwife at your next prenatal visit.
What should I do the last ten weeks of pregnancy?
3. Start on the necessities.
If this is the first time you’ve had a baby, is the crib put together? How about the bassinet? Catch up on all the laundry. Have your baby’s clothes washed and put away, along with swaddle blankets and sleep sacks. Make sure to have a pack or two of newborn and size one diapers on hand.
Your baby doesn’t need a lot to start, but there are a few things you shouldn’t wait on. Make sure their sleep space is ready. Have an extra clean sheet for when you need it. You don’t want to be in a middle of the night diaper change, only to figure out you have no clean sheet to replace the one your baby just peed all over.
4. Organize a “quick grab” diaper area.
You’ll thank me when your baby has an enormous blowout and you are short on hands. This baby caddy organizer is perfect to grab in a rush. It’s a good idea to place two changes of clothes, a to-go wipes pack, several diapers, diaper cream, a plastic bag for the dirty stuff, and two swaddle blankets in your organizer. It will save you from running around to grab needed items when your baby is screaming and rolling around like a crocodile.
5. Have a date night (or a few!).
Carve out time for you and your significant other now. It provides connection for you both and strengthens your relationship. Plus if you make this a habit now, it’s easier to keep it going once your baby arrives.
Use this time to talk to your significant other about your expectations for birth and the first few weeks postpartum. Will they be walking you through breathing exercises? How many days will they be home with you? What about meals? Who is getting up at night? Will you take turns? Expectations can completely derail us when we don’t communicate them. It’s rare that we both would have the same expectations. Discuss these ahead of time if at all possible.
6. Take a pregnancy class.
This is a great time to focus on learning new things in preparation for your baby’s birth. A childbirth or infant safety class can help decrease any anxiety you may be feeling. A Spinning Babies® class can help with easier birth through fetal positioning and will also help you with getting active through daily activities. Ask to tour your hospital or birthing center if your class doesn’t already provide you the opportunity.
7. Take maternity photos.
Even if you don’t plan to do this professionally, have a friend do it, or set up a timer on your phone. Trust me, you will want to remember your pregnant belly.
Journal how you are feeling and what pregnancy has felt like for you. What did you enjoy? How did you feel about your baby bump? What have you not liked? What is one thing you never want to forget? You will greatly appreciate being able to read these things in the future.
8. Take time for yourself.
Schedule that manicure and pedicure when you are a couple of weeks away from your due date. Get plenty of rest, and take the naps. Get that rem sleep in! Enjoy being able to do things spontaneously. Now is a great time to read the book you’ve been wanting to read.
If you have other children, plan a date with them before the new baby comes. This may be the last time for a while that it’s just the two of you. It’s also a great time to connect with your close friends, especially those who don’t have kids yet. Have a coffee date or go out to dinner. Even a weekend girl’s trip would be great!
9. Set up your room for baby to room in.
Get the bassinet or crib in place. Have your diaper caddy organized for middle-of-the-night changes. Make sure there’s a place nearby for your baby’s clean outfits and blankets. Will you have a baby monitor in the room? Make sure the cords are always out of reach of your baby’s sleep space. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that your baby room in with you (sleeps in the same room but not the same bed) for the first six months. Studies show that mothers and babies who room-in together actually get more sleep than those who don’t and this can also reduce the risk of SIDS.
Sleep sacks are one of the safest blankets for babies. Here are the top 11 sleep sacks this year!
10. Plan for your first week postpartum.
Have the best foods, like high-quality nutritious snacks stocked and frozen meals ready to go in the freezer. A healthy diet is so important, not only in pregnancy but also as your body recovers from delivery. You will need to take your prenatal vitamin for 6 weeks after delivery or as long as you breastfeed.
Stock your bathroom with different size feminine pads and witch hazel pads to help your bottom after childbirth. Here’s how to care for your bottom after delivery.
What should I do the last few weeks of pregnancy?
General information: Your healthcare provider will continue to see you throughout the rest of your pregnancy. As you get closer to your due date, you may see vaginal discharge increase, have slight abdominal pain like cramping, lower back pain, and experience more pregnancy weight gain. Make sure to give your health care provider a call if you experience any vaginal bleeding and always follow their medical advice. Could it be labor? Here are signs your labor is near.
An important thing to remember is though the last week of pregnancy can be hard, and as eager as we are to be through, our body is still developing baby. Sometimes they need a few extra days or weeks to get ready to be born. The good news is you will have your baby in your arms and their tiny fingers wrapped around yours soon! Best wishes!
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