{"id":29069,"date":"2025-02-15T19:24:14","date_gmt":"2025-02-16T02:24:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/?p=29069"},"modified":"2025-02-19T11:32:59","modified_gmt":"2025-02-19T18:32:59","slug":"third-trimester-checklist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/third-trimester-checklist\/","title":{"rendered":"Your ultimate third trimester checklist: what to expect, what to do, and advice from the experts"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><em>Note: Because this article discusses some of the\u2026. intricacies\u2026 of the third trimester, we\u2019ve asked <a href=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/author\/kristan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2337\">Kristan<\/a>, a mom of two, to write this article. We figure this stuff is best discussed by someone who&#8217;s experienced it first hand!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ahhh, the third trimester. It\u2019s the home stretch, <em>but<\/em> it\u2019s also quite possibly the longest 12 weeks of your life\u2014thanks to some of the less-than-pleasant third trimester symptoms and the general anticipation of waiting for a baby. The good(ish) news? There\u2019s plenty you can do to pass the time. And don\u2019t worry, we consider \u201cnapping\u201d a part of that list.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We noticed there are plenty of checklists that talk about yoga and baby books but not enough that cut to the chase. Yes, you <em>should <\/em>be resting\u2026 but this is also kind of the time to get your sh*t together. This third trimester checklist is built from my own experience, with the help of three pregnancy experts: a perinatal mental health counselor, a birth and postpartum doula, and a certified lactation consultant\/car seat technician. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"660\" height=\"430\" src=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Expert-Panel-final-1.jpg\" alt=\"A picture showing our expert panel: Sara Rader, Licensed Professional CounselorHeather Price, IBCLC\/CPST\/Founder of Pro Parents PrepMallory Hansen, Birth &amp; Postpartum Doula\" class=\"wp-image-29121\" srcset=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Expert-Panel-final-1.jpg 660w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Expert-Panel-final-1-600x391.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 660px) 100vw, 660px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>When in doubt, I use my personal third trimester philosophy: <em>Rest when you can, prep when can\u2019t.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In other words, consider this your <em>oh shi*t list\u2026 <\/em>for when you look at the calendar and realize a whole human baby will be in your arms in 12 weeks (or less!). We&#8217;ll start by going over third trimester symptoms (aka, what to expect). Then, you&#8217;ll find your third trimester checklist broken down into these categories (click to skip around): <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#birthchecklist\">Birth<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#babyandhomechecklist\">Baby and home<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#medicalchecklist\">Medical<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#educationchecklist\">Education<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#workchecklist\">Work<\/a> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#carechecklist\">Taking care of you<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#thirdtrifordads\">For dads\/partners <\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Please note: Fathercraft is reader supported, meaning, at no cost to you, we may earn a commission if you buy after clicking an affiliate link.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/disclosures\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2338\">Learn more<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Third trimester symptoms (aka, what you\u2019re up against)&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s be honest\u2026 the third trimester is no walk in the park. You trade your pregnancy glow for a bruised rib cage and lightning crotch (yeah, that\u2019s a thing). But it helps to go in prepared, so here\u2019s what you can expect:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Note: I\u2019m not a doctor. If you experience anything that seems abnormal, call your doctor! And don\u2019t be ashamed. I called in for false alarms three times before my second was born \ud83d\ude42&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Increased aches and pains<\/strong>: As your baby takes up more space, you start to feel more pressure on your ribs, joints, back, and lungs. For some, this gets uncomfortable. For others (myself included), it can get downright painful. Finding the right combination of movement and rest can help.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lightning crotch<\/strong>: This is (bewilderingly) exactly what it sounds like. Baby hits a nerve, and you end up feeling like there\u2019s lightning where lightning should not be.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Changes in discharge<\/strong>: As your body preps for birth, you may experience a change or increase in vaginal discharge. As you approach the final weeks, make sure you call the doctor if the discharge gets watery or soaks through a pad\u2026 it could be your water!&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Swelling<\/strong>: A little puffiness is normal in the final weeks. But if you experience sudden and extreme swelling, call your doctor.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nausea and\/or heart burn<\/strong>: Isn\u2019t nausea a thing of the past?! Well\u2026 not for everyone. Some people get nauseous again in the third trimester, and heart burn kicks into high gear as baby invades the space of your stomach and esophagus.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Braxton Hicks contractions<\/strong>: Unlike real contractions, Braxton Hicks are typically mild, irregular, and go away if you change positions or drink water. They don\u2019t make any changes to your cervix (that\u2019s the job of a real contraction). It\u2019s just your body practicing!&nbsp;Fair warning\u2014I got a TON of these with my second pregnancy. It felt like I couldn\u2019t move without contracting, and some of them got painful. When I wasn\u2019t sure if they were truly just BH, I called my doctor!&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mood swings, anxiety, and\/or depression<\/strong>: Maybe it\u2019s hormones, maybe it\u2019s that you&#8217;re sick and tired of being pregnant. For me, it was both. If you start to struggle, (you guessed it) call your doctor!&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sleep disruption<\/strong>: It seems cruel, but pregnancy insomnia is a thing. Some say it helps prepare for when the baby is here, keeping you up at night. I\u2019m not sure if I felt better prepared\u2026 mostly, I was just tired.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Actual labor<\/strong>: Eventually, it\u2019s the real deal. The third trimester gets you closer and closer to your baby making their grand entrance! Watch out for contractions that build in intensity and follow a pattern. Or, you might be in the small percentage of women whose water breaks first (that was me!). If that happens, go straight to labor &amp; delivery!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"thirdtrimesterchecklist\">Your third trimester checklist&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As you read through this checklist, keep the above symptoms in mind. While you may no experience every symptom on the list, chances are you\u2019ll feel pretty tired. Rest when you can\u2026 but when you have the energy, chip away at the things below.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"birthchecklist\">Birth<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol list class=\"fc_list_style\">\n\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nCreate your birth plan<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nCreate a postpartum plan<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nPack your hospital bag<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nTour the hospital and\/or ask your doctor questions<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nCreate a labor playlist<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>The third trimester is a great time to square away your birth <em>and postpartum <\/em>plans. Create a document that lays out your preferences for birth (but keep in mind that there\u2019s only so much you can control!). Who is on your birth team (i.e., do you want to hire a doula)? Where will you give birth? Do you want pain medication? Who is allowed in the room? Do you want to be able to move around?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-medium\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/birth-plan-picture-450x600.jpg\" alt=\"The author is in labor, hooked to wireless monitors, according to her birth plan. She points to a paper sign above her door that says, &quot;BELIEVE,&quot; inspired by Ted Lasso. \" class=\"wp-image-29097\" srcset=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/birth-plan-picture-450x600.jpg 450w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/birth-plan-picture-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/birth-plan-picture-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/birth-plan-picture-600x800.jpg 600w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/birth-plan-picture.jpg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">My nurses knew I wanted to move around as much as possible, so here I am in labor, hooked up to wireless monitors, pointing to the Ted Lasso-inspired sign they made for me. They were super supportive!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Perinatal mental health therapist, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sararadercounseling.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2339\">Sara Rader<\/a>, also emphasizes the importance of a postpartum plan, where you sit down with your partner (if applicable) and discuss how you will handle sleep deprivation, household chores, and all the other fun stuff that comes with a new baby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fc_quote_style\">\n<p>From the mental health perspective, the number one recommendation I have for third trimester moms is to create a detailed postpartum care plan. This is a great opportunity to connect with your partner &#038; discuss ways to work as a team postpartum. It makes a big difference if you can think ahead to reduce confusion &#038; conflict during this time period so you can really focus on rest, recovery, and bonding with your new baby.<\/p>\n<span><em>\u2013 Sara Rader,<\/em> Licensed Professional Counselor<\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Sara recommends visiting the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.postpartum.net\/postpartum-planning-for-expectant-parents\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2340\">Postpartum Support International website<\/a> and downloading their free postpartum plan template. Once you&#8217;ve done that, go ahead and pack your hospital bag. And while you\u2019re at it, create your perfect birth playlist. Trust me, music helps!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-medium\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"551\" src=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/sleep-and-rest-postpartum-plan-600x551.jpg\" alt=\"A screenshot from the Postpartum Support International website's postpartum plan. It shows the &quot;sleep &amp; rest&quot; section and displays the following questions: How many hours of sleep do you need each night to function and feel good?Where will baby sleep?How can you use daytime hours or someone else's help to get some extra rest?What can you prepare ahead of time for overnight needs (feeding and diapers, etc)? If you are able to take &quot;shifts&quot; with someone, where will you both sleep and how will shifts work?\" class=\"wp-image-29098\" srcset=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/sleep-and-rest-postpartum-plan-600x551.jpg 600w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/sleep-and-rest-postpartum-plan-1024x941.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/sleep-and-rest-postpartum-plan-768x705.jpg 768w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/sleep-and-rest-postpartum-plan.jpg 1472w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A snippet from the Postpartum Support International website&#8217;s postpartum plan <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"babyandhomechecklist\">Baby and home<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol list class=\"fc_list_style\">\n\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nGet the rest of your baby essentials<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nInstall your car seat<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nWash and sanitize bottles and pacifiers<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nOrder a breast pump (if you&#8217;re planning to breast feed)<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nPut together a postpartum cart or basket<\/a>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nIdentify your support systems<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>You don\u2019t need a fancy nursery, but you do need a few basic essentials to make sure you can feed, change, and bathe your baby. Plus, you\u2019ll want to safely move your baby and put them to sleep. There\u2019s a lot of people screaming \u201cyou must have this!\u201d out there, so we\u2019ve gathered up a list of your <a href=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/baby-essential-list\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2341\">basic essentials here<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/img-bag-product-img-5-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"the Fathercraft diaper bag surrounded by day-to-day baby essentials\" class=\"wp-image-21738\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:contain\" srcset=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/img-bag-product-img-5.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/img-bag-product-img-5-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/img-bag-product-img-5-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/img-bag-product-img-5-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/img-bag-product-img-5-600x600.jpg 600w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/img-bag-product-img-5-100x100.jpg 100w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A few things you&#8217;ll definitely need&#8230; diapers, wipes, and enough clothes to account for the blowouts<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Installing the car seat isn\u2019t quite as simple as it sounds, and you&#8217;re required to have it installed before you leave the hospital. Go ahead and get that done, so you have time to check the installation with a car seat tech.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fc_quote_style\">\n<p>Car seat installation is not as simple as it seems! The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 90% of parents feel confident in their car seat installation, but around half of all car seats are install incorrectly. Installation in the vehicle is one thing &#8211; and then proper use each time is another layer! <\/p>\n<span><em>\u2013 Heather Price,<\/em> IBCLC \/ CPST \/ Founder of Pro Parents Prep<\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The most common mistakes <a href=\"https:\/\/proparentsprep.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2342\">Heather Price<\/a>, licensed car seat technician, sees? <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>seats\/bases that are installed too loosely in the vehicle<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>seats that are installed with both latch AND seat belts (nearly all car seats require just one or the other, not both)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>straps positioned too high in infant seats<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>straps that are too loose<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>chest clips landing too low on the abdomen<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, part of prepping your home is prepping for postpartum. Get a basket with some healing essentials together\u2014that includes your favorite snacks! Healing and taking care of a baby is hard work. As much as you can, lean on your support systems to help you navigate the first few weeks of infancy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fc_quote_style\">\n<p>In preparing for new parenthood, consider this: birth is one day or so. Newborn period is 6 weeks. Infant is the remainder of that first year, and of course, parenting is forever! It is worth your time to deeply consider what kind of support you need, especially in those first few months. Lean on whatever support network you have for meals, help with housework, infant care, and care for yourselves.<\/p>\n<span><em>\u2013 Heather Price,<\/em> IBCLC \/ CPST \/ Founder of Pro Parents Prep<\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"medicalchecklist\">Medical<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol list class=\"fc_list_style\">\n\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nMonitor your baby&#8217;s kicks<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nAttend your prenatal appointments<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Around 26-28 weeks, you should start paying attention to your baby\u2019s kicks. Some medical experts suggest laying down at the same time everyday and making sure you can count 10 movements within two hours. Others recommend paying attention to what feels \u201cnormal\u201d for your baby (and trust me, it will get to a point where it\u2019s hard to ignore) and calling if anything seems off. Count the kicks is an excellent resource for this!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"303\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/count-the-kicks-303x600.jpg\" alt=\"a screenshot from the Count the Kicks app\" class=\"wp-image-29099\" srcset=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/count-the-kicks-303x600.jpg 303w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/count-the-kicks-516x1024.jpg 516w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/count-the-kicks-768x1523.jpg 768w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/count-the-kicks-775x1536.jpg 775w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/count-the-kicks-1033x2048.jpg 1033w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/count-the-kicks-600x1190.jpg 600w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/count-the-kicks.jpg 1290w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 303px) 100vw, 303px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Count the Kicks app&#8230; just tap the foot to count the kick <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The prenatal appointments will get more frequent (every other week until week 36\u2026 then it\u2019s every week!). Make sure you attend them so that you can express any concerns you have, relay your birth preferences, and monitor your baby\u2019s health.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"educationchecklist\">Education<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol list class=\"fc_list_style\">\n\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nTake a birthing class<\/a>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nSee a lactation consultant (if you&#8217;re planning to breastfeed)<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Birth is\u2026 wild. It\u2019s helpful for <em>both <\/em>partners to know what to expect (and that might be the understatement of the year\u2014it\u2019s borderline critical, especially if you have strong birth preferences). With the right amount of education and prep, birth can also be a pretty incredible experience.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A course can walk you through what the heck is going on throughout all those contractions. Plus, you can learn more about pain management, pushing, and what happens directly after birth (we love <a href=\"http:\/\/tinyhood.sjv.io\/GKKWBE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2343\" data-lasso-name=\"Sjv\">Tinyhood<\/a> for birth education\u2014it\u2019s super affordable and offers <em>so many courses <\/em>to help you through the first year. And you get access to all of them!). <br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re planning to breastfeed, seeing a lactation consultant <em>before <\/em>you birth your baby can actually increase your chances of success. According to IBCLC Heather Price, prenatal lactation consultations are a chance to review your health history, discuss goals, learn about your <a href=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/willow-go-review\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2344\">pump<\/a>, and have a plan in place for early postpartum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"workchecklist\">Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol list class=\"fc_list_style\">\n\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nDetermine what you want in terms of work vs. staying home (or some combination of both)<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nTour daycares and get on a waitlist (if applicable)<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nCreate a maternity leave plan and set boundaries (if applicable)<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>For some reason, I <em>never <\/em>see work-related things on a third trimester checklist, but no matter what your plan is, you gotta figure some things out before the baby comes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re planning to return to work, you\u2019ve probably already told your colleagues about your pregnancy and arranged for maternity leave (if you haven\u2019t\u2014now is the time!). But it\u2019s helpful to start thinking now about projects you may want to wrap up before taking off and how you\u2019ll transition your tasks. Making a plan can make the last few weeks feel less overwhelming, especially when you should be focused on resting. Communicate your boundaries and expectations. Unfortunately, some people still think maternity leave is a vacation. But trust me, you won\u2019t be trying to respond to emails when you\u2019re sleep deprived and covered in spit up.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Copy-of-Instagram-Post-Booksta-1-600x600.jpg\" alt=\"The author sits on the floor with her newborn and toddler. A palm tree is superimposed onto the picture\" class=\"wp-image-29100\" srcset=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Copy-of-Instagram-Post-Booksta-1-600x600.jpg 600w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Copy-of-Instagram-Post-Booksta-1-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Copy-of-Instagram-Post-Booksta-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Copy-of-Instagram-Post-Booksta-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Copy-of-Instagram-Post-Booksta-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Copy-of-Instagram-Post-Booksta-1-400x400.jpg 400w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Copy-of-Instagram-Post-Booksta-1-100x100.jpg 100w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Copy-of-Instagram-Post-Booksta-1.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Is this a vacation yet?<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Fair warning: The daycare situation is kind of abysmal. In many areas, there are super long waitlists. If you haven\u2019t already, go ahead and tour some daycares and get on a waitlist.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And if you\u2019re planning to stay home? Discuss the division of labor with your partner. In some ways, the home becomes your workplace, and it\u2019s just as important to figure out expectations and boundaries. And if you\u2019re like me, and you\u2019re self-employed\u2026 do yourself a favor and set parameters around what your \u201cleave\u201d will look like, even if it\u2019s self-funded. Communicate that to your clients.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"carechecklist\">Taking care of you <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol list class=\"fc_list_style\">\n\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nRest, rest, rest<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nHydrate<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nEat nutritious foods<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<svg class=\"checkbox-icon\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#7A89A4\" stroke-width=\"2\">\n<rect x=\"2\" y=\"2\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" rx=\"2\" \/>\n<\/svg>\nDo what feels good<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>There is a lot going on and kind of a lot to do, but <em>please <\/em>don\u2019t forget to take care of yourself. Your body will force you to rest if you don\u2019t allow time for extra snoozing. Call in for backup if you can and put your feet up. While you\u2019re at it, drink another glass of water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And lastly\u2026 just do what feels good. Light movement can help relieve aches and pains, but don\u2019t force yourself to work out if what you really need is a nap. Maybe it helps to keep your mind occupied with a new hobby or calling up a friend. Remember: this stage is temporary, and every day brings you closer to your baby!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, postpartum and birth doula, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mamaexpanded.com\/\" data-lasso-id=\"2345\">Mallory Hansen<\/a>, confirms the benefits of naps and hobbies:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fc_quote_style\">\n<p>My biggest thing with my clients is ensuring that they\u2019re resting! So all the naps. But also just doing things they\u2019ve maybe wanted to do for themselves but haven\u2019t yet\u2014learn to knit, go get a manicure, massage, facial, etc, or acupuncture. Focus on your nervous system regulation and staying calm and grounded<\/p>\n<span><em>\u2013 Mallory Hansen,<\/em> Holistic Birth &#038; Postpartum Doula<\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"thirdtrifordads\">For dads<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Alright dads, I know you want to help because you\u2019re great dads. But if you find yourself feeling like you can\u2019t be all that helpful, scroll up and read back through the third trimester symptoms. Anything you can do to take tasks off your pregnant partner\u2019s plate helps. Here are some specific suggestions:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Take care of yourself<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>First and foremost, make sure you&#8217;re taking care of yourself. Find support through your community and seek professional help if you need it\u2014there&#8217;s no shame! According to licensed therapist Sara Rader, dads can also be prone to mental health challenges during the third trimester and beyond, due to the rather incomparible life changes taking place. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fc_quote_style\">\n<p>Dads absolutely can benefit from therapy in this time period as well! Although we don&#8217;t talk about it often, new dads can also develop depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns during the perinatal period. Moms &#038; dads can often find themselves feeling overwhelmed during the transition to parenthood, due to the huge changes in your lifestyle and responsibilities. You may even find yourself triggered by aspects of new parenthood that stir up your own wounds. Seeking support for yourself allows you to show up as the parent and partner you want to be during this sacred time of life.<\/p>\n<span><em>\u2013 Sara Rader,<\/em> Licensed Professional Counselor<\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Attend prenatal appointments&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As much as you can, continue to attend the prenatal appointments. It\u2019s helpful to have the extra support.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pack your own hospital bag<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pack your own bag, and do it <em>before <\/em>your partner reaches 36 weeks.&nbsp; You\u2019ll need a few changes of clothes and toiletries. Pro tip: Pack yourself some snacks and blanket.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plan to take on more of the housework\/care for older children<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When I was in the final weeks of my pregnancy, caring for my three-year-old felt like an olympic sport. Even if you already have a pretty equal split, you might need to take on more than your typical fair share.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Educate yourself on birth<\/strong> <strong>and breastfeeding (if your partner plans to breastfeed) <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Take a birthing class with your partner. There are a lot of sights, smells, and sounds. It\u2019s helpful if you\u2019re not shocked by any of them. The support of my partner was critical to me staying sane throughout the birthing process.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your partner plans to breastfeed, plan to take a breastfeeding class with her as well. According to board certified lactation consultant, Heather Price, partners have a direct impact on breastfeeding success, and I believe it! My partner helped me figure out how to latch, attended lactation consultations with me, and is Chief Pump Part Washer in our house.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fc_quote_style\">\n<p>Education is SO important for both the breastfeeding parent AND their support people. Partners who understand the basics of milk production and breastfeeding can be better encouragers and supporters. [As a partner], you impact whether she chooses to breastfeed or not, how confident she feels in breastfeeding, and how long she does it! <\/p>\n<span><em>\u2013 Heather Price,<\/em> IBCLC \/ CPST<\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Get a plan for care for older children in place&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have older children, take on the task of figuring out where they\u2019re going to go when your partner goes into labor. Do you have family nearby? Close friends? If you don\u2019t live near your support system, can someone come in town and stay for awhile? Alternatively, I\u2019ve seen where people hire on-call sitters to be available when the moment comes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Call insurance&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Call your insurance company and make sure you know what to do to add your new human to your insurance plan when they\u2019re born. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Take a parenting class<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To state the obvious: Once you get through birth, you have to actually be a parent. You may find that some of it comes naturally, but not all of it. A new parenting class can help you navigate everything from the pure basics (i.e., how to actually <em>hold <\/em>a baby who can&#8217;t support their own head) to more complicated matters like <em>how do I get this baby to sleep. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Shameless plug: Check out the <a href=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/fathers-ed\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2346\" data-lasso-name=\"A practical class for first time dads Father&#039;s Ed\">Fathercraft New Dad class<\/a>. You go at your own pace, you get practical tips and lessons, and if you don&#8217;t feel like it&#8217;s helping you, you can get your money back within 60 days. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"185\" src=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/img-fathers-ed-devices-300x185.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-26980\" srcset=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/img-fathers-ed-devices-300x185.png 300w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/img-fathers-ed-devices-1024x632.png 1024w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/img-fathers-ed-devices-768x474.png 768w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/img-fathers-ed-devices-600x370.png 600w, https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/img-fathers-ed-devices.png 1209w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Parenting education at your fingertips<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What&#8217;s next?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Hi, we&#8217;re <a href=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2347\">Fathercraft<\/a>! If you&#8217;re prepping for a baby, make sure you check out our free <a href=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/new-parent-checklists\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2348\">baby prep checklists<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/reviews\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" data-lasso-id=\"2349\">product reviews<\/a>. We&#8217;re on a mission to make cool stuff for awesome dads and families, and we hope you&#8217;ll tag along. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Note: Because this article discusses some of the\u2026. intricacies\u2026 of the third trimester, we\u2019ve asked Kristan, a mom of two, to write this article. We figure this stuff is best discussed by someone who&#8217;s experienced it first hand! Ahhh, the third trimester. It\u2019s the home stretch, but it\u2019s also quite possibly the longest 12 weeks [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":755,"featured_media":29103,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2016,2001],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-29069","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-general","category-learn"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Third trimester checklist: An expert-backed guide to the final weeks - Fathercraft.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Third trimester checklist: Your expert-backed guide for the final weeks of pregnancy. 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Prepare your home, medical team, work, and more.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/third-trimester-checklist\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Fathercraft.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/fathercraftcore\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-02-16T02:24:14+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-02-19T18:32:59+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/third-tri-chcklist-lead-image-e1739647974757.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1500\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1393\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Kristan Barczak\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@fathercraftcore\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@fathercraftcore\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/third-trimester-checklist\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/third-trimester-checklist\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Kristan Barczak\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/#\/schema\/person\/bf01b90ae0e4fe8933886de9bf0cf4f4\"},\"headline\":\"Your ultimate third trimester checklist: what to expect, what to do, and advice from the experts\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-02-16T02:24:14+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-02-19T18:32:59+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/third-trimester-checklist\/\"},\"wordCount\":3244,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/third-trimester-checklist\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/third-tri-chcklist-lead-image-e1739647974757.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"General\",\"Learn\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/third-trimester-checklist\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/third-trimester-checklist\/\",\"name\":\"Third trimester checklist: An expert-backed guide to the final weeks - Fathercraft.com\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/third-trimester-checklist\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/third-trimester-checklist\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/fathercraft.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/third-tri-chcklist-lead-image-e1739647974757.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-02-16T02:24:14+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-02-19T18:32:59+00:00\",\"description\":\"Third trimester checklist: Your expert-backed guide for the final weeks of pregnancy. 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