
To do list before giving birth
The last few weeks of pregnancy can feel like a whirlwind—exciting, exhausting, and sometimes overwhelming. This period requires preparation, patience, and support as your body gets ready for childbirth. Whether you’re eagerly counting down the days or feeling anxious about what’s ahead, having the right information can help you navigate this stage with confidence and peace of mind.
Preparing for Childbirth
Bringing a baby into the world is a major life event, and planning ahead can make things easier. Consider these steps to ensure you have the support you need:
- Organize Help: If possible, arrange for family or friends to assist with meals, household chores, or errands. Even small tasks, like grocery shopping, can feel overwhelming in the final weeks.
- Plan for Transportation: If you live alone or don’t drive, set up a plan for how you’ll get to the hospital when labor begins.
- Arrange Postpartum Support: After childbirth, having someone to help—whether it’s a friend, family member, or postpartum doula—can be invaluable as you recover and adjust to life with your baby.
Kick Counting: Tracking Your Baby’s Movements
Starting around week 32, your doctor may recommend counting your baby’s kicks to ensure they are active and healthy. Pick a consistent time each day to monitor movement, preferably when your baby is naturally more active.
- You should feel at least 10 movements within two hours.
- If you notice a decrease in movement or anything unusual, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
This simple habit can provide reassurance and serve as an early indicator of any concerns. If you are looking for a good app to track your baby’s movements, here I leave one that is really good. Click here to download the app.Â
Recognizing the Signs of Labor
Understanding the difference between pre-labor symptoms and true labor can help you know when it’s time to go to the hospital. Some early signs that labor is approaching include:
- The mucus plug coming out (a thick discharge that seals the cervix).
- Cervical effacement, meaning the cervix is softening and thinning.
- Increased pelvic pressure and more frequent Braxton Hicks contractions.
When to Seek Medical Attention
You should head to the hospital or call your doctor if you experience:
- Your water breaking, which may feel like a slow trickle or a sudden gush.
- Heavy bleeding or unusual discharge.
- Decreased baby movement after monitoring.
- Regular, painful contractions that get stronger and closer together (about five minutes apart, lasting for one minute, for at least an hour).
Braxton Hicks vs. Real Contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions, often called “practice contractions,” are common in the third trimester. They may be uncomfortable, but they do not signal actual labor.
- These contractions can be triggered by movement, dehydration, or even a full bladder.
- They usually go away when you change positions, drink water, or take a warm bath.
- If contractions become stronger, more frequent, and don’t stop, you may be in labor.
If you experience more than four Braxton Hicks contractions per hour before 36 weeks, contact your provider to rule out preterm labor.
Childbirth: What to Expect
Labor happens in three stages:
- Early Labor: Contractions begin but are irregular and mild. This stage can last several hours or even days.
- Active Labor: Contractions become more intense, longer, and closer together. This is when most women go to the hospital.
- Transition & Pushing: This is the most intense stage, leading to the moment when you’ll finally meet your baby.
Keeping track of your contractions can help determine when to go to the hospital. Consider using a contraction-tracking app or writing down their frequency.
Getting Ready for Your Baby’s Arrival
Preparing for your baby ahead of time can make those first few days easier. Here are a few things to check off your list:
Safe Sleep Setup
- Set up a crib or bassinet in your room for the first few months.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against co-sleeping, so room-sharing is the safest option.
Car Seat Installation
- Install a rear-facing infant car seat before your due date.
- Many hospitals won’t discharge newborns unless they have a properly installed car seat.
Centro Tepeyac partners with Montgomery County’s Car Seat Program to provide a hands-on car seat safety class led by a certified expert! Learn how to choose the right car seat, properly install it, and ensure your child is securely buckled in at every stage of growth. We’ll cover common mistakes, safety tips, and best practices to give you confidence every time you hit the road. Whether you’re a first-time parent or need a refresher, this class will help you keep your little one safe. ¡Click here to register!Â
Packing a Hospital Bag
Have your hospital bag ready with essentials like:
- Comfortable clothes for you.
- A going-home outfit for your baby.
- Diapers and wipes.
- A blanket for swaddling.
- Any necessary feeding supplies (if not breastfeeding).
Baby Care Essentials
Some items to have ready at home include:
- Diapers and wipes
- Baby thermometer
- Fitted crib sheets and waterproof protectors
- Swaddling blankets
- Footed sleepers for easy dressing
- Baby shampoo, soap, and a hooded towel
- Nail clippers for tiny nails
- A nasal aspirator for clearing congestion
- Baby bottles (if using formula or pumping)
These small preparations can help reduce stress when you bring your baby home.
Final Thoughts
The final stretch of pregnancy can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Having a plan, a support system, and the right resources can make all the difference.
If you’re feeling anxious about labor, recovery, or adjusting to motherhood, Centro Tepeyac is here for you. We offer counseling, pregnancy support, and resources to help you navigate this stage with confidence.Â
If you have questions or need support, reach out to us. You deserve guidance, care, and a safe place to prepare for this next chapter.