20-24 Weeks
You may have your second ultrasound scan scheduled in the next few weeks. Do you want to know the sex of your baby? In preparing the nursery, make it a baby-friendly environment and check for possible hazards.
Pack away your high heels and practise positive posture. Consider what you would like to include on your birth plan. What’s important to you?
Adjust your fitness schedule and cut out high impact activity.
A reliable washing machine will help cut your workload after your baby is born. If you haven’t already got one, put it on your wishlist.
If you are leaking colostrum (and some women do as early as the second trimester!) invest in some breast pads.
24-28 Weeks
Need to arrange maternity leave?
Start cooking extra food to stock your freezer. Once you return home with your newborn, cooking dinner will be the last thing you’ll feel like doing. Prepare in advance.
Watch for signs of pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes. If detected early, these can be prevented from developing into more serious conditions. Signs of pre-eclampsia include raised blood pressure, protein in the urine, and swelling of your face, hands, and ankles. Signs of gestational diabetes include extreme thirst, frequent urination, and extreme tiredness.
Problems with circulation?
Afraid of developing varicose veins? A body massage will encourage venous blood flow back to the heart as well as soothing aching muscles. Tell your therapist that you are pregnant when booking an appointment. Put your feet up whenever you have an opportunity.
Rehearsal contractions known as Braxton Hicks may occur. These are useful to practice deep breathing in preparation for labour.
28-30 Weeks
If you plan to use natural birthing methods, make sure the facilities are available and book in early.
If your baby was born now, it could survive with special care. Don’t get caught short! Consider packing just in case.
Does your oven need cleaning? Persuade your partner, a friend or family member to do it for you. Avoid harsh chemicals and cleaning agents that may harm your baby.
Begin gathering items you may need at the labour. Most women say it’s important to pack personal items to make the delivery room feel homely. What to Pack
Feeling washed out? Home Beauty Spa is full of innovative ideas you can prepare yourself to chill out at home. Click here to read more.
If you are suffering from varicose veins or heavy legs, raise the end of your bed slightly encourage venous flow.
If you’ve got any energy left, prepare some meals for freezing. These will come in useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or in during the first few months of parenthood.