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Congratulations, you’re pregnant!
Whether this is your first baby or your fourth, every pregnancy is a unique journey.
While it’s exciting, it can also feel overwhelming at times with all the things to remember.
That’s where this ultimate pregnancy checklist comes in! I have broken it down trimester by trimester, so you know what to focus on as you prepare to welcome your little one.
Enjoy and don’t forget to comment at the end, I love hearing from you and subscribe to get access to FREE printables, newsletters, the latest posts and more.
First Trimester (Weeks 1–13): Setting the Foundation
The first trimester is full of big changes.
I am currently pregnant with my third and I know how each pregnancy is different from the other.
Your body is adjusting. In between the nausea and vomiting, you’re probably experiencing all the emotions. Excited, nervous and maybe even a little tired.
The first trimester for me is the most challenging, physically and emotionally.
Here’s how to start your pregnancy on the right foot:
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Schedule Your First Prenatal Appointment.
Once you find out you’re pregnant, call your doctor or midwife to schedule a prenatal visit. If you don’t hear anything by the time you are 8 weeks pregnant. Check with them again.
With my third, I spoke to the doctors at 4 weeks pregnant. They said they would pass it on to a midwife. They never did.
This appointment usually happens around 8–10 weeks.
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Take Prenatal Vitamins
If you’re not already taking prenatal vitamins, now’s the time to start! Look for ones with folic acid to help with your baby’s development.
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Learn About What to Eat (and Avoid)
You’ll need to make a few changes to your diet. Focus on eating nutritious foods like fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid raw seafood, deli meats, and unpasteurised dairy.
I am vegetarian so getting enough fibre and iron can be a challenge especially when I am pregnant. Keep this in mind if you are a veggie or vegan.
With all the nausea and vomiting, you may not be able to stomach much. With my first pregnancy, I only ate Doritos for a week.
Don’t beat yourself up if you can’t eat a balanced diet for the first 12 weeks.
You will also have your first scan around 12 weeks. This can leave you with a mix of emotions. Just know they are all valid and don’t forget to talk to your midwife about any concerns.
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Rest When You Can
Fatigue is no joke in the first trimester. Don’t fight it. Listen to your body and grab a nap whenever possible. Even if you have other children to take care of.
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Start a Pregnancy Journal
This is a special time, so why not document it? Write about how you’re feeling, what you’re craving, and your hopes for the baby. It’s something you’ll love looking back on later. Always take pictures of your body each week too, believe it or not, one day you will forget and want to look back.
Second Trimester (Weeks 14–28): Planning and Preparing
Welcome to the “honeymoon phase” of pregnancy!
You’ll likely feel more energetic, and hopefully, your nausea and vomiting will ease.
You may even start to see your baby bump. This trimester is all about planning ahead.
If it’s your first baby, you may not see a bump for a while yet. I started showing around the 14-week mark with my first but my third was showing at 10 weeks.
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Start Wearing Maternity Clothes
If your jeans are getting snug, it’s time to shop for maternity clothes. Look for comfy basics like leggings, joggers, stretchy tops, and a good pair of maternity jeans.
I love buying second hand. Places like Vinted and Facebook marketplace are handy. Don’t forget to check out the charity shops too.
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Find Out Your Baby’s Gender (If You Want)
At around 20 weeks, you’ll have your anatomy scan.
This is when you can find out your baby’s gender if you choose. It’s also a chance to see how your little one is growing!
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Plan Your Nursery
This is a controversial one. Some parents like myself will have the baby with them for some time. Other parents like to have the baby’s room ready for when the baby is born.
There is no right or wrong, this is up to you.
Think about how you want the nursery to look. Do you want a theme? New babies really don’t need much. Don’t get carried away with what companies say you need.
Download my FREE Checklist to find out what you actually need for your new baby.
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Take Care of You
Try an exercise like walking or prenatal yoga and Pilates. Treat yourself to some self-care. A prenatal massage or spa day can do wonders.
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Stock Up on Postpartum Supplies
You’ll want to have everything you need for recovery ready to go.
Think comfy pads, nursing bras, and a good water bottle to stay hydrated. Also, a cushion to sit on for when you travel home from the hospital. You will thank me later.
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Freeze Meals
Cooking will be the last thing on your mind once the baby arrives.
When my first arrived, we ate only toast as we were exhausted and spent all our time taking care of our daughter.
Spend a weekend making freezer-friendly meals to make those early weeks a little easier. You and your partner need your energy and you can’t get that from toast, believe me.
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Make Time for Yourself
This is your last chance to enjoy some quiet time before the baby arrives. Take a bubble bath, go on a date night, or binge-watch your favourite show.
Third Trimester (Weeks 29–40): The Final Countdown
You’re in the home stretch now!
As your due date approaches, it’s time to wrap up your preparations and get ready to meet your baby.
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Pack Your Hospital Bag
Decide if you are having a home birth or a hospital birth. I have had lots of complications with all my pregnancies so I have been consultant-led.
My first two children I was induced with. Remember you have the final say over what you want. The midwives and doctors are there to guide you, but at the end of the day, you have to do what’s best for you and the baby.
Don’t wait until the last minute to pack your hospital bag!
Download my handy hospital bag checklist for the essentials that need to be in your hospital bag.
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Take a Childbirth Class
If this is your first baby you may wish to take a class. Whether it’s in person or online, a childbirth class can help you feel more prepared for labour and delivery.
Look for one that also covers newborn care and breastfeeding if that’s part of your plan.
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Install the Car Seat
Speaking of car seats, make sure it’s installed correctly.
Many hospitals won’t let you leave without one!
You can often find free installation checks in your area.
A Few Extra Tips for Every Trimester
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Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep you and your baby healthy.
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Communicate: Keep an open line of communication with your partner, family, and doctor. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or advice.
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Be Flexible: Every pregnancy is different, and things don’t always go as planned. Take it one day at a time, and give yourself grace.
Bee's Final Thoughts - Enjoy the Journey
Pregnancy is an incredible experience. Filled with moments of wonder, excitement, and sometimes challenges.
However, it won’t last forever and you don’t want any regrets. Remember to keep track of your progress throughout each trimester. Live in the moment and give yourself some self-care and self-compassion.
By tackling these tasks trimester by trimester, you’ll feel more prepared and confident as you get closer to meeting your little one.
Download your FREE checklist here.
Remember: You’ve got this, mama! 💕
As always I am here for you, feel free to contact me and share this with another muma to be.
