The third trimester can feel like a whirlwind. Between growing anticipation, physical discomfort, and an ever-growing to-do list, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. As a midwife and mother, I know firsthand how intense those final weeks can be, so I’ve pulled together my go-to tips to help you feel grounded, empowered, and ready (without spiraling into panic mode).
1. Understand What’s Normal, Even If It’s Uncomfortable
By now, your baby is growing quickly, and so is your uterus. You may experience these symptoms intermittently:
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Braxton Hicks contractions
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Pelvic pressure or back pain
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Swelling in hands and feet
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Restless sleep
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Frequent urination
While these are common, always check in with your provider if anything feels off (especially if you have vision changes, headaches, or sudden swelling).
Midwife tip: Don’t stress if your body feels different every day... variation is normal. Keep a short daily log of any new or concerning symptoms so you can bring them up at your next appointment without forgetting.
2. Start Prepping Your Body for Birth
No, you don’t need to drink 10 red raspberry leaf teas a day or bounce on a yoga ball for hours. But these few gentle practices can help your body prepare:
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Nourish with whole foods high in protein, iron, and fiber.
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Stay active with daily walking, stretching, or prenatal yoga.
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Hydrate like it’s your job.
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Support circulation and lymphatic flow with light massage.
3. Create Your “Just in Case” Birth Plan
Whether you’re planning a home birth, hospital birth, or something in between, it helps to outline:
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Your top 3 preferences (example: minimal interventions, delayed cord clamping, uninterrupted skin-to-skin)
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Who will be with you (partner, doula, photographer)
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A few “if things change” preferences
Midwife tip: The goal isn’t control, it’s clarity. A flexible, thoughtful plan helps you and your team advocate for your values, even if labor takes a different path.
4. Nurture Your Mental Space
Hormones are intense, and so is the emotional weight of nearing the end of pregnancy. Journaling, therapy, or talking with trusted friends can help you feel more grounded.
Try repeating this mantra:
“My body knows how to birth. I am safe, supported, and strong.”
5. Gather a Few Essentials, But Skip the 50-Item Checklist
Here’s what I recommend focusing on:
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A few comfortable outfits and nursing-friendly tops
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Pads or adult diapers for postpartum bleeding
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Perineal healing and nipple care products
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A soothing bath soak (trust me, you’ll want it)
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A healthy snack stash (labor is hungry work)
And remember - you don’t need to have it all together to be ready. You just need to be supported.
You’ve Got This.
The third trimester is a season of stretching - physically, emotionally, and spiritually. While you might not feel “ready” every day, I promise you’re more prepared than you think.
💛 If you're looking for natural support during this time, explore my pregnancy-safe wellness goods here.
Blessings,
Carley