Congratulations on reaching the last trimester! It's such an exciting yet overwhelming time, and preparation can indeed make the transition smoother. When I was in the same phase with my first child, I found that preparing a post-birth recovery kit was invaluable. Things like postpartum pads, comfortable clothing, and a nursing pillow were lifesavers.
From an organizational standpoint, setting up a diaper changing station both in your baby’s room and in a common area of your home can be hugely beneficial. This means you’re not always rushing to one spot when you need to do a quick change.
For baby necessities, of course, you’ll need basics like diapers, wipes, and onesies, but also consider items that ease sleep deprivation. A sound machine was a game-changer for us, helping the baby (and us) get better sleep.
Also, don’t underestimate the power of meal prepping. During those early weeks, finding the energy to cook can be challenging. Having a freezer stocked with easy-to-reheat meals saved us on numerous occasions. There’s a great study by Thompson et al. (2018) that found new parents had significantly less stress when they had meal plans or support for meal preparation.
I can't stress enough the importance of self-care. Even scheduling short breaks to relax or stretch can make a difference in your mental well-being. Consider downloading a mindfulness app or having a favorite music playlist ready for those moments when you need a quick escape.
If you’re planning to breastfeed, having a lactation consultant’s contact handy can be reassuring. The La Leche League is an excellent resource as well.
One thing I learned the hard way was to accept help when offered. Whether it’s someone watching the baby while you nap or bringing a meal, don’t hesitate to say yes.
How are you feeling about the preparations so far? Anything you’re particularly excited or nervous about? I'm here to chat more if you need additional support or tips!
