Your Pregnancy To-Do List
I love that initial rush of excitement when you get that big, fat, positive test—we’re having a baby! Pretty shortly after, I then get hit with all the things I have to do to get ready for Baby. It can overwhelm a new mom so much, especially while navigating those pesky pregnancy symptoms.
Here’s a breakdown of things to take care of during each trimester. I am a mom currently expecting baby number two, so I’ve been there before, but I’m also living it right now. Use this checklist to help you stay on track and feel prepared for when that sweet little baby joins your family!
Trimester 1:
- Choose a health care provider. Whether you select a doctor or a midwife, you’ll want to make a phone call and get an appointment to confirm your pregnancy and discuss what your care will look like throughout pregnancy.
- Decide how and when you will announce to family and friends. Some parents choose to wait until after the first trimester; others can’t wait to share the happy news!
- Buy a baby book or journal. It’s never too early to begin to keep track of special moments and thoughts! If a traditional baby book isn’t your style (or you just know you won’t keep up with it), simply writing down your thoughts, milestones and memories in a journal will be something special to look at later.
- Begin your research. Start reading up on all things baby! It’s so fun to download some pregnancy apps on your phone and track the baby’s weekly growth. Check out the pregnancy section at the library and read up on sleep and feeding schedules and newborn care. This is my second go around, and I still find myself brushing up on these things!
Trimester 2:
- Plan the baby’s nursery. Some go all out in choosing colors and themes, but as long as you have a safe place for the baby to sleep, you can rest easy.
- Sign up for a childbirth and/or baby care class. This is a great way to acclimate you and your partner to what goes on when the big day arrives. For me, attending a childbirth class eased a lot of my anxiety about labor and delivery.
- Think about your birth plan. After your childbirth classes, you’ll know more about all your options. Start having conversations with your partner about your labor and delivery preferences, while understanding the need for flexibility. Write your thoughts down to share with your health care provider.
- Register for baby gear. Start a list of all the things you will need for Baby and decide where you want to register.
- Make work plans. Look at your work leave options, talk to your supervisor and make a plan for your maternity leave.
- Get a baby name list going! Will you find out the gender? Either way, start a list to test some names out and see what sticks.
- Take a babymoon. This is optional, but if you can work it out, go for it! Even if you can just get away for one night at a nearby hotel, find a way to connect and get some alone time.
Trimester 3:
- Take time to pamper yourself. Schedule a pregnancy massage, facial or pedicure at a day spa. You won’t regret it!
- Settle household routines. A new baby will add to and throw off your existing home routine. Talk to your significant other and discuss who will be in charge of which household and baby tasks.
- Freeze meals. Prepping some meals for the freezer will be a lifesaver after Baby comes. If you’re like me and not thrilled at the thought of shopping for and prepping multiple meals at once, check out a local service like Social Suppers, which does all the hard work for you!
- Pack your hospital bag. When my first came a couple of weeks early, I was not as prepared as I would have liked. I will not make this mistake the second time around and plan on having the bag packed and ready to go by week 36.
- Deep clean. You’ll find your nesting instincts will be in full force at this point, which will help you get the house in tip-top shape. You never know when you’ll get around to cleaning the baseboards again, so now’s the time. Plus, it feels so good to bring a brand new baby home to a clean house.
- Install the car seat. You won’t be able to leave the hospital without one!
Areas to Organize:
Although every last piece of nursery wall décor doesn’t have to be up before Baby comes, there are some key areas you will want to have organized:
- Diapers: If you’re using a changing table, be sure the changing pad is clean with a cover on it. Organize diapers, wipes and diaper cream within easy reach.
- Diaper changing caddy: It’s also nice to have a small bag you can easily transport around the house so that you’re ready to change diapers no matter which room you’re in.
- Baby feeding area: I like to have a small table and/or basket near the glider I use for feeding Baby. This is where you’ll keep your nursing pillow, nipple cream and burp cloths for the baby. Think of yourself also and keep the area stocked with water bottles, granola bars and a good book!
- First aid/baby hygiene: You’ll want to have essentials such as baby nail trimmers, nose suction, gas drops and lotion readily available.
Emily Cline lives in Lenexa with her husband, 4-year-old son and new baby girl. She is an instructor of education at a local university and blogs about motherhood at EmilysLittleLoves.com.
As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.