The Complete Pregnancy Checklist for Each Trimester

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Every pregnancy is specific, but all first-time moms-to-be out there share one thing - they overthink! And how not, you might ask, when our bodies and lives are soon about to change like never before? You already know that all fears and anxieties come from a lack of experience, which is easily solved. How? With some kind pieces of advice, cordial and professional support, and one detailed pregnancy checklist.

​Pregnancy trimesters and checklist and why we need them

It is much easier to track fetal development if the pregnancy is divided into three stages. It's also because each stage is marked by characteristic developments in the fetus and a woman's body. Hence, each group of changes corresponds to a trimester.
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• First Trimester (0 to 13 Weeks)
• Second Trimester (14 to 26 Weeks)
• Third Trimester (27 to 40 Weeks)

At the end of the third trimester, at 36+ weeks, a pregnancy is considered full-term. It means that babies born before week 36 are considered premature and may need to spend additional time in an incubator to grow and fully develop.

A pregnancy checklist is designed to help a future mom find herself in the coordinate system of pregnancy and help her focus on tasks vital for her and the baby.

Also, it is paramount to note that a checklist is only a reminder, and it should be regarded as such. There's no alternative to regular checkups and tests. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and only a dedicated physician can give you guidance explicitly designed for you.

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The "Now what?" and "What next?" of pregnancy

Nutritious food, light exercise, and sufficient water and sleep are the four pillars of a healthy lifestyle that become vital in pregnancy. Forget about smoking and alcohol, and consult your physician if you take any therapy. Find some books on pregnancy and preparation for childbirth, as learning how to prepare mentally and emotionally is critical.

Trimester 1. Month 1.

1. Schedule an appointment with your OBGYN/Midwife and confirm your pregnancy.
2. Double-check what prenatal care your insurance plan covers.
3. Keep a diary of symptoms and feelings. It will help you remember everything at the next checkup.
4. Consult your physician about your diet, any supplements you might need, such as folic acid, and exercise.
5. If you plan to lead an active life in pregnancy and work out, know what you can do safely and what you should avoid. Pelvic floor exercises are most welcome. Ask me for recommendations.
6. Do your best to rest as much as possible. Learn how to breathe, relax, meditate and get as much healthy sleep as possible.
7. This is when morning sickness is usually the strongest, so battle it by eating small, frequent meals to make sure you don't go overboard.

Trimester 1. Month 2.

1. It is time to schedule prenatal tests. Usually, tests are made between weeks 10 and 20, so consulting your doctor and scheduling well in advance will help you keep your peace of mind.
2. It's never too early to start readying your budget for when the baby comes, so why not start saving now? Perhaps you should also create a savings account for your child's education or future expenses.
3. Don't forget to put time with your partner on a pregnancy checklist and enjoy it while it's still uncomplicated.
4. Do some research and decide where you want to give birth. Should it be in a hospital, local birth center, or your home?

​Trimester 1. Month 3.

1. At this point, it is possible to learn the sex of the baby, and you and your partner should decide if you'd rather find out sooner or later.
2. Check your company's policy on maternity leave so you can make plans on time and prepare.
3. Pregnancy hormones can temporarily make your teeth loose and cause gingivitis, so make an appointment with a dentist.
4. If you prefer to hire the help of a doula, check their availability and schedule on time.
5. Pro: your breasts have likely increased in size. Con: they are also very tender. It's time to find a comfy but fitting bra!

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Trimester 2. Month 4.

1. Mothers-to-be usually wait until the second trimester to announce the good news to family, friends, and their managers at work.
2. The selection of maternity clothes has never been more diverse, so grab your BF and enjoy some quality shopping time!
3. The second trimester will make you glow, and you'll likely feel terrific, but your skin will continue to stretch - and itch - all the more reason to invest in stretch mark skincare products.
4. Plan a babymoon with your partner for a time ideally between 24-32 weeks.
5. If your energy has come back again, this is a great time to get back into moving your body. Begin with Spinning Babies exercises and follow Mamastefit on Instagram. Also, see a pelvic floor therapist now!

Trimester 2. Month 5.

1. Prepare your nursery or baby corner and outfit it with furniture. It's also an excellent time to borrow baby clothes and organize a baby registry.
2. Go to your ultrasound exam and ensure your unborn baby is healthy with this important prenatal test.
3. Start planning your baby shower with your closest friends and family.
4. Crush the glucose tolerance test.
5. Begin listening to positive birth stories from friends and family or on podcasts. Learning more about birth helps quell any fears of the unknown.

​Trimester 2. Month 6.

1. Timely preparation is vital, even more so when it comes to childcare. Find the best option and check it off the pregnancy checklist.
2. Although you've been likely thinking about the baby's name, it's time to find an agreement with your partner and choose the top ones you'll both adore!
3. Set up your maternity leave and ensure a stress-free transition.
4. By this time, your grown belly is likely making sleeping on your stomach impossible, and you should avoid sleeping on your back, too. Make sleeping on your side more comfortable with pillows between your knees.
5. Be thinking about what your birth goals are: unmedicated, wait and see epidural, planned cesarean, etc. Utilize your doula, if you have one, to explore your options together.

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​Trimester 3. Month 7.

1. Prepare and talk about your birth plan with your doula or OBGYN/Midwife and make your wishes known.
2. Send invites for your baby shower if you're hosting it, and share your baby registry with invitees.
3. Prepare maternity clothes for the last three months and a change of seasons.
4. Schedule Childbirth classes (Understanding Birth, Unmedicated Prep, Breastfeeding, Postpartum Prep, Infant Care, etc.) 

​Trimester 3. Month 8.

1. Have fun at your baby shower!
2. Wash the baby clothes and sheets, both new and borrowed, in newborn-friendly laundry detergent.
3. Free some space in your freezer and store cooked meals for after childbirth. You'll thank yourself later.
4. Install a baby car seat and prepare your car for the new passenger!

Trimester 3. Month 9. 
*If there is a risk that you may deliver early, consider checking these off in month 7 or 8.*

1. If you plan to give birth in a hospital, pre-register.
2. Prepare and pack a bag for the hospital.
3. If you have pets or kids, someone will have to care for them when you go into labor. If your family can't hop in, arrange for a pet or babysitter.

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Finally, relax! It's all set. If you consult your pregnancy checklist, physician, doula, and everybody who works in your and your baby's best interest, you're on the path to a more informed and calmer pregnancy. Support and care are what you need and what you deserve!