Trimester checklist

Pregnancy checklist: First trimester to-dos

Congratulations, mama – you’re pregnant! You’re probably overcome with joy and maybe a little anxious, too. Don’t stress! Here’s what you’ll need to tackle during your first trimester:

Weeks 1-13

• Take a home pregnancy test (and tell your partner the exciting news!)
• Start taking a prenatal vitamin and avoid risky foods (including raw eggs, deli meat and raw fish)
• Quit smoking, drinking alcohol and reduce your caffeine intake (limit to one 12-ounce cup of coffee per day)
• Eat well and stay hydrated
• Try to get 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week
• Find an OBGYN, midwife or other prenatal care provider
• Check your health insurance – does your insurance cover prenatal care and delivery?
• Schedule your first prenatal appointment
• Talk to your doctor or midwife about prenatal and genetic testing, such as a nuchal translucency screening
• Check your finances – how will pregnancy, baby and maternity leave impact you? Make a budget and create a savings plan.
• Talk to your partner about parenting – how do you want to raise your child?

Pregnancy checklist: Second trimester to-dos

Can you believe that you’re already in your second trimester! By now, you’re looking and feeling great. Time is going by fast, but don’t worry – here’s a handy list of things to get done during your second trimester:

Weeks 14-27

• Shop for maternity clothes – You might not be showing right now, but you will be soon!
• Plan and design your nursery – Have some fun designing your little one’s space.
• Decide if you want to find out your baby’s gender – This is typically shared with you during your anatomy ultrasound, so be sure to let your care team know your decision.
• Choose the hospital where you’ll give birth – This is an important decision, so take a few tours!
• Start thinking about and planning for childcare – Do you want a nanny? Daycare center? 
• Find a prenatal exercise class – Meet other mamas-to-be in your area and keep moving!
• Learn about second trimester prenatal tests – A number of tests can tell you if your baby might have certain chromosomal disorders.
• Start applying moisturizer to your belly – To help as it grows and stretches with your baby.
• Choose your favorite baby names – Pick some of your favorites. You can even share them with close friends and family.
• Look into childbirth classes – Find the one that’s right for your sooner rather than later because they can fill up fast. 
• Start sleeping on your side – This will help to make sleeping more comfortable for you. You can use a pillow between your legs to adjust to this new way of sleeping.
• Start doing Kegel exercises – This can help you prevent leaks during and after pregnancy while also helping to minimize hemorrhoids.
• Create a baby registry – Get ready for your baby shower and baby’s arrival!

Pregnancy checklist: Third trimester to-dos

You’re in the home stretch! Baby’s grand entrance will be here before you know it – which means it’s time to check off the last items on your to-do list. Here’s what you’ll need to do before the big day:

Weeks 28-32 

• Check out child care in your area, if needed
• Rh negative moms: Get your Rh injection
• Start keeping track of baby’s kicks
• Sign up for childbirth classes 
• Decide whether you plan to breastfeed. Talking with our lactation specialists or signing up for a breastfeeding class can help with your decision.
• Talk with your care team about cord blood banking
• Your doctor may screen you for signs of depression during pregnancy. But if you’re feeling depressed or anxious, let him or her know right away.
  

Weeks 32-36 

• Practice your breathing and relaxation exercises 
• Decide what you’d like to use for birth control, if using contraception, after baby arrives
• Choose baby’s pediatrician. Talk to your practitioner if you need suggestions.
• Get your group B strep test (GBS)
• Pack your hospital bag
• Pick up any last-minute items you’ll need to get through baby’s first few weeks
• Put together any remaining nursery furniture 
• Install baby’s car seat and have it inspected
• Go to your appointments (every other week)

Weeks 36-40 

• Your doctor may screen you for signs of depression during pregnancy. But if you’re feeling depressed or anxious, let him or her know.
• Decide whether you’ll circumcise baby, if you’re having a boy
• Prep grab-and-go meals to pop in the freezer (chili, soups, casseroles, etc.)
• Pack baby’s hospital bag 
• Go to your appointments (every week)
• Try your best to rest and relax