You are in your third trimester — the final weeks before the baby arrives. Maybe your belly feels enormous, you are sleeping worse, and you swing between excitement and nerves. All of this is completely normal.

The third trimester is the time for making the last practical preparations. Not everything needs to be perfect, but some things should be in place. Here is a complete overview to help you keep a clear head and focus on what matters.

Weeks 28–32: The big preparations

Use these weeks to make the most important decisions and get things in order. You still have energy, and the baby has not yet taken up all the space.

Birth plan

A birth plan is a brief description of your wishes for the birth. It helps your midwife and doctor understand what matters to you. You do not need to cover everything — focus on what you care about most.

Things you can consider:

Pain relief (epidural, nitrous oxide, birthing pool, acupuncture)
Birth positions you want to try
Who should be present
Skin-to-skin contact right after birth
Early breastfeeding
Umbilical cord clamping (who, when)
Wishes in case of cesarean

A birth plan is a wish list, not a contract. Births take unexpected turns, and that is okay. What matters most is that you and the baby are safe.

Childbirth preparation class

If you have not already signed up for a class, do it now. Most classes are held between weeks 28 and 36. The class provides knowledge about the stages of labor, pain relief, and breastfeeding.

Bring your partner. Partners who have attended a class are better prepared to provide support during labor.

Parental leave planning

Check your employer's parental leave policies and make sure you know your rights. In many countries, both parents can take parental leave — plan and discuss the division with your partner.

Parental leave checklist:

Check your company's parental leave policy
Clarify with your employer when you plan to start leave
Discuss the split with your partner
Notify your employer in writing

Weeks 33–36: Packing and practicalities

The practical preparations are now becoming a little more urgent. The baby could theoretically arrive early, and it is good to have the most important things in place.

The hospital bag

Pack your hospital bag by week 36 at the latest. Have it ready by the door so you can just grab it when the time comes.

For you:

Prenatal record / pregnancy notes
Birth plan (printed)
Comfortable nightgown or large T-shirt
Slippers and warm socks
Toiletries, lip balm, and hair ties
Phone charger
Snacks and drinks

For the baby:

Onesie and pants (newborn/0-3 months)
Hat and socks
Newborn diapers
Car seat (can be in the car)

For your partner:

Snacks and coffee
Phone charger
Change of clothes

Pack the most important essentials you need for the hospital stay. A printed birth plan, your prenatal records, and comfortable clothes are the priorities. Add personal touches based on your own preferences.

Baby gear

You need less than you think. Focus on what is absolutely necessary, and buy the rest as needed.

Must-haves to start:

Car seat (required to leave the hospital)
Sleeping space — crib, bassinet, or side-sleeper
Diapers and wipes
Clothes in newborn/0-3 months
Changing mat
Nursing pillow (if you plan to breastfeed)
Stroller with a flat lie-back option

Car seat

The car seat must be in place before the birth. Practice installing it in the car — it is harder than it looks. Read the manual carefully and check that the seat is secure.

Weeks 36–40: The final weeks

The last weeks are about slowing down and checking in with your body. Your body is preparing for birth, and you may notice changes.

Signs that birth is approaching

Your body sends signals in the weeks and days before birth. Not everyone experiences all of them, but common signs include:

The belly drops — the baby moves lower, you breathe more easily
Increased discharge — the mucus plug may come out (can come gradually or as a lump)
Irregular contractions — Braxton Hicks contractions become stronger
Nesting instinct — sudden energy and urge to clean and organize
Loose stools — hormonal changes can cause more frequent toilet visits

Call your maternity unit if you experience: regular contractions (the 5-1-1 rule: contractions every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute, for 1 hour), your water breaks, heavy bleeding, or if the baby is moving less than usual.

Contraction timing

Download a contraction timer app on your phone and practice using it. When contractions start, the timer helps you keep track of frequency and duration. This is exactly the information the maternity unit asks about when you call.

Practical checklist for the last weeks

Freeze meals (5–10 portions will make the postpartum period easier)
Write down the maternity unit's phone number
Arrange who will drive to the hospital
Install the car seat
Wash baby clothes with gentle detergent
Check that phone charger, camera, and essentials are in the hospital bag

Preparing mentally

Preparations are not just about things and equipment. Your mental state is at least as important.

Talk about the birth. Discuss expectations, fears, and wishes with your partner. You do not need to agree on everything, but it helps to know where you both stand.

Be flexible. The birth plan is a wish list, not a contract. Births take unexpected turns, and that is okay. The most important thing is that you and the baby are safe.

Let your shoulders drop. The house does not need to be perfect. The baby does not care about dust under the sofa. Use your energy on rest, quality time with your partner, and things you enjoy.

Many pregnant women feel birth anxiety. It is normal to be nervous. Talk to your midwife about it — they have experience helping you feel more secure. For severe anxiety, there is help available through specialized programs.

Frequently asked questions

When should I start preparing?

Start the big preparations around weeks 28–30. Hospital bag and car seat should be ready by week 36. Many babies arrive a little before their due date, so it is wise to be ahead of schedule.

How much gear do we actually need?

Less than the advertisements suggest. A car seat, sleeping space, diapers, clothes, and breastfeeding equipment covers most needs for the first weeks. Buy the rest as you discover what you need.

What do I do if labor starts suddenly?

Call emergency services for an urgent birth. Stay calm and follow the instructions from the operator. The vast majority of births take many hours, so it is rare for the baby to arrive before you reach the hospital.

Should we attend a childbirth preparation class?

Yes, it is recommended, especially for first-time parents. Knowledge about the stages of labor gives you confidence. The class is also a great opportunity for your partner to learn how to provide good support.

What does the 5-1-1 rule mean?

The rule states that you should call the maternity unit when contractions come every 5 minutes, last at least 1 minute, and the pattern has continued for at least 1 hour. You are likely in active labor.

Sources

WHO — Antenatal Care Guidelines
ACOG — Preparing for Labor and Delivery
AAP — Newborn Essentials Checklist

Third Trimester: Everything You Should Do Now