A week-by-week guide to everything you need to do in your third trimester, from finalizing birth plans to nesting tasks and self-care preparation.
The Home Stretch: Weeks 28-40
The third trimester is an exciting time of final preparations and growing anticipation. Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure you are ready for baby's arrival — while still taking time to rest and enjoy these last weeks of pregnancy.
Weeks 28-32: Organization Phase
Medical Tasks
- Schedule your glucose tolerance test if not already done
- Begin weekly or bi-weekly prenatal visits
- Discuss birth preferences with your provider
- Get Tdap vaccine (recommended between 27-36 weeks)
- Consider hiring a doula if you have not already
Planning Tasks
- Create your birth plan
- Tour your birth facility
- Pre-register at the hospital
- Choose a pediatrician
- Finalize nursery setup
Practical Tasks
- Install car seat and have it inspected
- Wash baby clothes in gentle detergent
- Stock up on diapers and wipes
- Set up baby feeding station
Weeks 32-36: Preparation Phase
Pack Your Bags
Pack your hospital bag by 36 weeks — babies sometimes come early!
Birth Preparation
- Complete childbirth education class
- Practice pain management techniques
- Review birth plan with your support team
- Have your partner practice comfort measures
Postpartum Planning
- Stock freezer with postpartum meals
- Set up postpartum recovery supplies
- Arrange help for the first weeks
- Learn about the fourth trimester
- Research breastfeeding basics
Work and Life
- Finalize maternity/paternity leave plans
- Train backup person at work
- Set up out-of-office messages
- Prepare older children — see sibling preparation guide
Weeks 36-40: Final Countdown
Watch for Labor Signs
Learn the signs that labor is approaching:
- Baby drops (lightening)
- Increased Braxton Hicks contractions
- Nesting urge intensifies
- Loss of mucus plug
- Water breaking
Self-Care Priority
- Rest as much as possible
- Prenatal massage for comfort
- Gentle nutrition focus
- Date nights with your partner
- Document your bump with photos
Final Preparations
- Double-check hospital bag
- Confirm your support team is on-call
- Review when to call your provider/doula
- Keep your phone charged
- Have car seat installed and gas tank full
Emergency Contact List
Keep this information easily accessible:
- OB/Midwife office and after-hours number
- Hospital labor and delivery
- Doula contact information
- Pediatrician (for after birth)
- Emergency contacts for childcare/pet care
Know When to Call
Contact your provider immediately if you experience:
- Regular contractions before 37 weeks
- Water breaking
- Decreased fetal movement
- Heavy bleeding
- Severe headache or vision changes
Feeling overwhelmed? You do not have to prepare alone. Schedule a consultation to learn how our prenatal doula support helps you feel confident and ready. View our packages and read what other families say about working with us.