3rd Trimester

You’ve hit the homestretch. You’ll meet your baby soon! Is it starting to feel more “real”?

“Real” may be excitement or nervousness – or it may be your growing baby putting pressure in places you weren’t expecting! It’s time to start tying up loose ends from earlier on, like buying a car seat or finishing your online prenatal class. It may not be the best time to renovate, even if you’re feeling that “nesting” instinct. Materials like dust, finishes and glue can all contain toxic substances that are best not inhaled during pregnancy or when children are young.

3rd trimester checklist: Tying up loose ends

• Install the car seat – it may not be as easy as it sounds. Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer and visit the Government of Canada - Car Seat Safety site to learn more.
• Pack a hospital bag, whether you plan to deliver at the hospital or at home. Check with your doctor, midwife or the hospital (Guelph General, Groves Hospital, Headwaters) to find out what to bring. Be sure to include clothes for baby that are specific to the season, but remember that bulky snowsuits and sleep sacks can interfere with the car seat harness and are not safe to use with car seats. This video shows how to dress baby for cold weather.
• Take it easy! You may need to put your feet up – literally! – to ease the pressure and swelling that go along with your growing baby. Now may be the time to tone down your exercise routine too. Above all, listen to your body.
• Set up baby’s safe sleeping area that includes a tight-fitting mattress and:
  • Meets Canadian safety standards for sleeping babies
  • Is in the same room as you for the first six months
  • Is free from bumper pads and loose bedding
  • Is away from cords and curtains

Partners can:

• Read up on the benefits of skin-to-skin contact with partners
• Learn about your important role in supporting breastfeeding
• Continue to support mom in staying active and sleeping well
• Go through the online prenatal program together

Guides and resources

• Your Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy
• Is your child safe? A guide to baby and child products from Health Canada