🌿Third Trimester Checklist: 10 Things to Do Before Your Due Date

As your due date gets closer, it can feel like you still have time but babies don’t always wait for 40 weeks.

Preparing during your third trimester helps you feel more supported, organized, and ready for both birth and postpartum recovery.

This third trimester checklist covers what to do before your baby arrives — so you’re not trying to figure everything out in the first few days home.

🌿Why Preparing Before Birth Matters

The weeks after birth are focused on:

• healing your body
• adjusting to life with a newborn
• managing sleep and feeding routines

Planning ahead makes this transition easier.

If you’re preparing for recovery as well, you can explore our postpartum supplies checklist to understand what many mothers find helpful in the early weeks. 

🌿10 Things to Do in Your Third Trimester

🌿 1. Keep a Notepad & Long Charging Cord

Bring a notepad to write down questions for your provider — especially if medical language feels overwhelming.

A long phone charger (8–10 feet) is essential, since hospital outlets are often far from the bed.

🌿 2. Prepare Your Postpartum Care Kit

The hospital provides basics, but having your own supplies can make recovery more comfortable. 

A postpartum recovery kit can help support:

• perineal healing
• postpartum discomfort
• early recovery routines

Many mothers also prepare ahead with essentials like a herbal sitz bath soak to support healing once they’re home.

🌿 3. Write Your Birth Wishes

Instead of a rigid plan, think of this as your preferences.

Include:

• pain management choices
• delivery preferences
• support people
• immediate postpartum wishes

Having this written down helps your care team support you.

🌿 4. Prepare Your Home (Not Just the Nursery)

Preparing for a baby also means preparing for yourself.

Consider:

• meal prep or freezer meals
• creating a comfortable recovery space
• setting up essential items within reach

Postpartum recovery requires energy reducing daily tasks helps conserve it.

🌿 5. Have Formula as Backup

Even if you plan to exclusively breastfeed, having a small amount of formula can provide peace of mind in case of unexpected challenges.

🌿 6. Install and Check Your Car Seat

Make sure your car seat is properly installed before your due date.

You can visit a certified inspection station if you’re unsure.

🌿 7. Build a Breastfeeding Station

Set up a comfortable space with everything you need nearby:

• burp cloths
• water bottle
• snacks
• nipple balm
• breast pump and accessories

Having everything within reach makes feeding easier and less stressful as well as foods that support milk supply.

🌿 8. Plan Your Postpartum Meals

Food is often overlooked — but it’s essential.

You can:

• prep meals ahead
• organize a meal train
• plan simple takeout options

This reduces daily stress and supports recovery.

🌿 9. Create Your Support List

Write down who can help you after birth.

Include:

• family members
• friends
• postpartum support

You can also define boundaries ahead of time.

If you’re unsure how to manage support, you can read about how to handle postpartum visitors and set boundaries.

🌿 10. Plan Care for Siblings and Pets

Arrange support for:

• childcare
• pet care
• home responsibilities

This ensures a smoother transition when you return home with your baby.

🌿 Don’t Forget to Prepare for Postpartum Recovery

Many parents prepare for the baby  but not for recovery.

After birth, your body needs:

• rest
• healing support
• time to adjust

Understanding the postpartum recovery timeline can help you know what to expect in the early weeks.

🌿 Final Thoughts

Preparing in your third trimester isn’t about doing everything perfectly.

It’s about making the first weeks after birth feel more supported, calm, and manageable.

You don’t need to do it all alone.